Ashraf Hendricks: Durban City coach reflects on lessons behind career milestones

Durban City assistant coach Ashraf Hendricks says the setbacks he has experienced during his coaching career have been as valuable as the trophies he has won.

The 39-year-old, who is currently completing his UEFA A license, believes progress is shaped not only by success but also by the challenges that force coaches to examine their decisions and improve.

“The journey has been a really good learning experience for me,” Hendricks told KickOff.

“Like any journey, there are always highs and lows, but I believe the lows are just as important because they mould us, make us stronger and help us understand what we could have done better.”

One of the defining achievements of Hendricks’ career came when he guided La Masia to the ABC Motsepe League title. He regards that success as one of the key moments in his development as a coach.

He later took on an international challenge, spending two years coaching in another country. Working outside his familiar surroundings broadened his experience and required him to adapt both his methods and his communication.

“It taught me a lot, especially about adapting my communication to different languages and cultures and understanding how to work with and develop younger players,” he said.

That period added another dimension to a career that has included both domestic success and opportunities to work with younger players. Hendricks said the experience helped him understand the importance of adjusting to the environment in which a coach operates.

His move to Durban City brought another significant milestone. During his first season with the club, he was part of the team that won the Nedbank Cup.

“Coming to Durban City has been another important chapter in my journey. To be part of the club and win the Nedbank Cup in our first season was a special moment,” Hendricks said.

The success has not altered his approach to coaching. Hendricks said each stage of his career, including the difficult periods, has contributed to his development and continued education.

“Every experience, whether good or bad, has contributed to my development as a coach. I’m still learning, still growing and always looking for ways to improve,” he concluded.