Kaizer Chiefs Reserves Coach Arthur Zwane speaks tough on discipline

During this lockdown period, Kaizer Chiefs Reserves coach Arthur Zwane is keeping himself busy at home as he can’t perform what he loves and enjoys doing every day because of the Covid-19 situation.

The Club closed its Development Academy until further notice. And unlike the senior team coaches, our development coaches have not been engaging each player on a daily basis through technological means used by the senior team members.

“I keep myself busy with reading and training,” says Zwane. “Working with the youth has never been an easy task. It is challenging because you are dealing with youngsters from different backgrounds. The youth today are facing many a variety of issues. I try to remind all our youth development players that nothing comes easy in life. I emphasise the need to focus and hard work.

“The challenge we have in the development right now is that we are not in control of the situation because of the lockdown.  It is difficult to ascertain if the players are complying with the rules and regulations, which is our biggest fear now.

“We hope the youngsters know the importance of staying at home and following the rules.  We gave all the players a training programme. We hope that the when we resume training, everyone will be on the same level of fitness.”

Zwane identifies some of the challenges with the youth. “The biggest problem I am addressing with the players is attitudes. Some lack the desire to do well. I think one of the problems is the lack of good role models in our society. We are here to help them and share our experiences.”

Through daily activities Amakhosi Youth get taught several skills, in keeping with the Kaizer Chiefs brand and ethos.

“We are very strict on finer details like punctuality,” concludes Zwane. “Our players know very well that they represent a big brand in Kaizer Chiefs. They are aware that we do not compromise on personal qualities such as neatness. And more fundamental to our teachings is the value of respect. They are also fortunate because most staff in the Academy have been through the ranks and are able share their football life experiences.”

Zwane listed some of his focus areas when dealing with the youth as discipline, dedication, commitment, and perseverance.