Richards Bay FC has officially terminated the contract of midfielder Sithebe Shishemba following a dressing room altercation with the club’s coaching staff.
The incident occurred after the team’s defeat to SuperSport United, in which Shishemba did not feature but reportedly entered the dressing room to confront the technical team.
Shishemba’s actions led to his suspension and subsequent dismissal from the club.
Richards Bay initiated disciplinary proceedings, but the player, acting on his agent’s advice, chose not to attend the hearing.
This absence further complicated the situation, culminating in his exit.
Club chairman Sifiso Biyela voiced his disappointment with Shishemba’s behavior, criticizing the senior player for failing to act as a role model for the younger squad members.
“As an experienced player, he should have been motivating his teammates after the loss,” Biyela remarked. “Instead, he insulted the technical staff, which is completely unacceptable.”
A Troubled Tenure
Shishemba joined Richards Bay following a brief stint with Kaizer Chiefs, where he made just nine appearances before his contract was terminated.
His time at Richards Bay was expected to provide a fresh start, but his conduct has overshadowed any contributions on the pitch.
The incident underscores what Biyela described as a lack of leadership from the midfielder, whose role was initially envisioned as a guiding presence for the club’s younger talents.
Fallout and Future
While Shishemba’s dismissal closes his chapter at Richards Bay, it leaves questions about his next steps in professional football.
The player’s actions have cast a shadow over his career, and potential suitors may approach any future engagement with caution.
Richards Bay, meanwhile, will look to move past the controversy and focus on reinforcing their squad and team dynamics.
The club remains resolute in its stance on discipline and professionalism, sending a clear message that no player is above its code of conduct.
Shishemba’s departure marks the end of a tumultuous spell with the South African side, with his actions serving as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with seniority in a professional team.
