Darren Keet takes up coaching role with Ottawa City Soccer Club

Former South Africa goalkeeper Darren Keet has started his first coaching role since retiring from professional football after being appointed High Performance and Goalkeeper Lead by Ottawa City Soccer Club.

Ottawa City confirmed Keet’s appointment on its official social media platforms, bringing the former Bafana Bafana international into its player-development programme.

The club said Keet would use his experience from almost two decades in professional football to help develop its next generation of players.

“We’re excited to officially welcome Darren Keet as our High Performance and Goalkeeper Lead! A former South African international goalkeeper, Darren brings years of professional experience at the highest levels of the game, representing clubs across South Africa and Belgium, including KV Kortrijk, OH Leuven, Bidvest Wits, Cape Town City, and Durban City,” Ottawa City said.

“From representing his country on the international stage to competing professionally for nearly two decades, Darren now brings his experience, knowledge, and passion for the game to the next generation of OCSC players.”

Keet ended his playing career at the end of last season, having helped Durban City win the Nedbank Cup.

The former goalkeeper is now joining one of Canada’s largest private sporting organisations. Ottawa City SC has more than 2,000 members, according to the club’s official website.

The organisation works with players from the earliest stages of football through to the highest level they can reach, providing year-round training and league competition.

Its stated aim is to support players’ technical, tactical, physical and emotional development in a safe and supportive environment focused on fun and fair play.

Keet played for clubs in both South Africa and Belgium during his career, including KV Kortrijk and OH Leuven, as well as Bidvest Wits, Cape Town City and Durban City.

His appointment at Ottawa City marks a move into coaching after his retirement, with responsibility for high performance and goalkeeper development at the club.