Nyathi praises professionalism at U17 camp

by Staff Reporter

Monday Jun 09, 2025. 15:00

South African U17 side coach David Nyathi was impressed with both the performance and conduct displayed at the South African men’s national team U17 selection camp which took place near Johannesburg last week.

The selection camp took place from 1June to 7 June and served as an opportunity to “identify and nurture young footballers,” preparing them for international fixtures and competition in 2026, according to the South African Football Association (SAFA).

Nyathi was impressed by the professionalism displayed by the 40 youngsters chosen for the selection camp.

“You are always looking for players to embrace each other, even though they come from different teams, to show respect to each other, and to come on time when we have team events and meetings. They come on time, the dress code is looking proper, and on the field, there is fair play. You don’t see violent conduct on the field, you see the players in a manner that shows that they are not intentionally trying to hurt each other,” said Nyathi, speaking to SAFA.

Nyathi has stepped up in the absence of U17 head coach Vela Khumalo, who is currently coaching the Bafana Bafana side competing in the COSAFA Cup.

He believes that such camps are integral for the development of youth football in the country, having the ability to inspire players to reach for the next level.

“They have got the best facilities, the best experts around them and the best training environments – this changes your life completely and gives you a different perspective and might give you motivation to proceed,” he said.

The camp sought to further build on Amajimbos’ success, with the side set to compete in the FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar in November.

South Africa will face Bolivia, Qatar and Italy in group A of the competition later this year.

By Nic Gleeson