Mohafe Attributes Team's Success to Strong Brotherly Connection

Polokwane City Coach Credits Strong Relationships for Consistent Top-Eight Finishes

Polokwane City coach Phuti Mohafe believes the strong brotherly relationship he shares with his players is the driving force behind the team’s consistent top-eight finishes in the Betway Premiership.

Polokwane currently sit fifth on the log with 19 points from 12 matches, having moved into that position after their impressive win over AmaZulu last week at Princess Magogo Stadium.

Under Mohafe’s guidance, Rise and Shine have established themselves as one of the most competitive sides in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), regularly finishing in the top eight to secure qualification for the MTN8.

Last season, Polokwane finished seventh, and Mohafe attributes that continued success to the close-knit, family-like culture he has fostered within his squad.

“I think with me, it’s a brother-to-brother relationship with my players,” said Mohafe.

“I still remember when I used to play back then — I was afraid of my coaches. But now I’ve turned that experience to my advantage because I want a relationship where, when I come home, my kids don’t run away saying, ‘Dad is coming back.’ That’s the same kind of relationship I have with my players.”

The 51-year-old mentor explained that maintaining an open, approachable atmosphere in the team environment has been key to building trust and motivation among his players.

“If they know the coach is here and they can share a joke with him, that creates comfort and connection,” he continued.

“I’m very close to my players. I’m not an autocratic coach — I’m a democratic one. That’s the secret I share with my players, and it’s what keeps us strong.”

After the upcoming FIFA international break, Polokwane City will return to action when they host Mamelodi Sundowns at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on 23 November.