Willy Moloto resigns as Polokwane City coach to focus on his health

Willy Moloto has resigned as Polokwane City head coach, saying he does not want the club to continue paying him while he is unable to work because of ongoing health concerns.

Moloto confirmed his decision to iDiski Times on the morning of his departure. The former Pretoria Callies and University of Pretoria assistant coach has been absent from Polokwane City’s dugout since September, when he collapsed during the Betway Premiership match against AmaZulu.

He left the field for the medical room during the first half of the 1-0 defeat by AmaZulu with what appeared to be respiratory problems and was later taken to hospital.

The coach subsequently missed Polokwane City’s final three matches, including the first round of the Carling Knockout. Sheppard Sentane was given responsibility for leading the team during Moloto’s absence.

Moloto said his decision was driven by a desire to prioritise his recovery while also acting in the club’s interests.

“Yes, I have resigned,” Moloto told iDiski Times.

“Just to focus on my health. I want to focus on my health, and I don’t want to be selfish towards the team. You know, I’ve been with the team for the past I can say eight weeks. So, it’s unfair for the team to pay me, where else I’m not giving anything to them. So sometimes we need to put the team first and put us next.”

Asked how Polokwane City chairman Johnny Mogaladi had reacted to the news, Moloto said he had not yet received a response.

“I don’t know because I just sent an email today,” he added.

Moloto also said he believed he had made a positive contribution during his short spell in charge of Polokwane City’s first team.

The club, known as Rise and Shine, are 11th in the league table with eight points from nine matches.

Moloto’s resignation brings an end to his brief tenure at a time when his health has prevented him from working with the team.