Lehlohonolo Majoro embraces coaching path as former Bafana Bafana striker launches academy

Lehlohonolo Majoro says he is determined to keep developing as a coach after launching an academy aimed at helping attacking players progress at different levels of the game.

The 40-year-old former Bafana Bafana international, who has previously spoken of his interest in coaching at club level, believes he cannot afford to be left behind as football continues to evolve.

Majoro’s new academy already includes players from Betway Premiership teams among its clients. The project is focused on developing attacking players, with the former striker seeking to use his experience to provide specialist training for forwards.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Majoro said his transition into coaching required continued learning rather than relying solely on what he achieved during his playing career.

“In football you lean something each and every day. You can’t only rely on your experience as a former player, but you also have to look at the game through a different lens because our game evolves all the time.”

Majoro said improving his coaching qualifications would strengthen his credibility and help attract more players to the academy. He remains convinced there is a demand for the work he is offering, particularly from strikers who want specialised guidance.

The former Bafana Bafana forward said his approach had been shaped by the need to work for opportunities rather than wait for them to arrive.

“No one is coming to save you, and fortunately I learnt that early enough in life. Everything I need in life I have to go out and work for it. You learn to appreciate something and respect it once you’ve poured blood, sweat and tears into it. Being a striker coach is where my passion lies, because I know how important it is for a strikers to go through special training. I decided to create something I wish was there before.”

Majoro’s decision to establish the academy reflects his belief that attacking players benefit from dedicated coaching that addresses the specific demands of their position. His own playing background has informed the type of support he wants to provide, while his continued pursuit of qualifications is intended to support his development away from the pitch.

Although he has previously indicated that he would like to coach at club level, Majoro is currently concentrating on building the academy and working with players from a range of levels. His clients include footballers involved with Betway Premiership sides, underlining the breadth of the project.

For Majoro, coaching represents both a new professional direction and an opportunity to create the kind of specialist environment he feels was missing earlier in his own career. He says the challenge is to continue learning, adapt to the modern game and ensure that his experience remains relevant to the next generation of attackers.