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In the beautiful province of Limpopo, a remarkable coaching success story continues to unfold.
The Limpopo Academy of Sport (LAS) proudly celebrates the achievements of Coach Raymond Mdaka for winning the AFCON under-20 with the South African national team (Amajita). Mdaka’s boys beat Morocco in the finals on Sunday to become continental champions. His journey as a coach represents the fruits of an investment made nearly two decades ago.
Back in 2004 and 2005, the Academy initiated a program to enhance the capabilities of football coaches throughout the province, led by the expertise of Coach Frans Mogashoa and Conti Kubheka who conducted a level 2 coaching course.
“It is not a surprise to LAS as at that time Ray was the best student,” notes the Academy, acknowledging that Mdaka’s current success was evident from the beginning. The Academy especially recognises “the vision bearer, former Academy Manager Maletjema Ramodike” for laying the groundwork for such talent development.
Raymond Mdaka’s story begins in the rural village of Mokgwathi in the Bolobedu area of Mopani Region. A teacher by profession, Mdaka embarked on his coaching journey without formal qualifications, relying initially on his profound passion for the sport. His determination drove him to seek improvement, gradually progressing from organising village tournaments to commanding more significant platforms in South African football.
His formal coaching education began in 2002 with a SAFA Introductory course in the Vhembe region. However, the turning point came when the Limpopo Academy of Sports revolutionised coaching education in the province by organising comprehensive Level 1 (180 hours) and Level 2 (240 hours plus mini research) courses in quick succession.
In these intensive programs, Mdaka distinguished himself as the standout student among an impressive cohort that included former Kaizer Chiefs striker Mike Rapatsa, school principal Joseph Mphekgoane, Shooting Stars Academy’s Percy Mothoutsi, former Mahwelereng Real Rovers defender Stimela Baloyi, Thomas Libbi, Thema Girmer, West-Vaal University Football Manager Nieth, and University of Venda lecturer and SAFA coach educator Musa Nyathi.
Mdaka’s coaching prowess found professional application with teams like City Pillars and Dynamos, but his crowning achievement came when he guided the Limpopo U17 boys to gold in the prestigious SAFA U17 Interprovincial tournament. This success wasn’t achieved in isolation – the Limpopo Academy of Sports, under the leadership of Mrs. Jeanette
