Orlando Pirates send goalkeeper Ethan Visagie to Orbit College FC on loan

Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Ethan Visagie will continue his development away from the club after joining Motsepe Foundation Championship side Orbit College FC on loan.

The Siya crew has been informed that Visagie has already reported for duty with the North West-based club and begun training as Orbit prepare for the new season.

Pirates have approved the move to give the goalkeeper regular competitive football and valuable first-team experience, according to a source close to the situation.

“Pirates have allowed Ethan to go to Orbit so that he can grow and get more game time. He has already started training with the team,” said the source.

The loan is expected to last for the 2026/27 campaign, with Orbit aiming to return immediately to the Betway Premiership after being relegated at the end of last season.

Visagie’s spell could therefore provide him with an opportunity to play an important role for Orbit while continuing his progress. The club will be hoping his arrival can contribute to their bid to regain their top-flight status.

The decision comes as Pirates reshape their goalkeeping department following the arrival of New Zealand goalkeeper Dublin Boon from Stellenbosch FC.

Boon has joined the Buccaneers after a short spell with Stellenbosch FC, also known as Stellies, adding another option to a position that has undergone changes during the off-season.

Pirates have previously parted ways with Melusi Buthelezi, who moved to Sekhukhune United. Sipho Chaine remains an important option for head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Ouaddou has also spoken about the need to strengthen the goalkeeping department. With Visagie now set to spend the season away from the club and Boon arriving, attention has turned to how Pirates will organise their goalkeeping options for the 2026/27 campaign.

The Pirates coach recently identified Siyabonga Dladla and Zoey Monyepao among the goalkeepers currently available to him, while the club continues to assess the department.

Visagie’s move to Orbit means Pirates have sanctioned a development opportunity for the young goalkeeper at a time when competition for places is increasing at the Buccaneers. His immediate focus will now be on establishing himself with Orbit as they prepare for life in the Motsepe Foundation Championship and attempt to secure a swift return to the Betway Premiership.