Kaizer Chiefs’ Rushwin Dortley hails brother Emile’s progress

Kaizer Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley has praised the development of his younger brother Emile after a series of strong performances in the club’s youth structures.

Rushwin spoke to the media at the University of Pretoria during the Engen tournaments, where Emile has continued to make progress with the Amakhosi academy.

The younger Dortley recently made his debut for Kaizer Chiefs’ DDC side and played a key role as the club’s under-18 team won both the Engen Knockout Challenge and the Engen Champ of Champs tournament.

Both brothers play as left-sided centre backs, raising the possibility of a defensive family partnership developing within the Chiefs set-up. Rushwin’s attendance at the tournament also underlined the close relationship between the siblings and the support provided by their family.

Reflecting on Emile’s move from Cape Town to Johannesburg and his development through the academy, Rushwin said: “He’s grown a lot since he came from Cape Town to this side [Joburg] but he’s been doing well and it’s just for him to keep going and to get better.”

Rushwin stresses importance of support

The senior Chiefs defender said established players also had an important role to play in encouraging the next generation at the club.

“With us being here, it shows them that everything can be done and it gives them motivation to show that we also come and watch them and support them and for them to see us and get more motivation while playing,” he said.

Emile’s success in the recent tournaments marks another stage in his development at one of South Africa’s most prestigious youth academies.

His progress comes as Rushwin continues to establish himself in the Kaizer Chiefs senior squad, with the older brother now able to offer guidance as Emile adapts to life in Johannesburg and advances through the club’s youth ranks.