Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies coach Jerry Tshabalala is facing serious allegations of improper conduct after several sources, including players and staff, spoke to a public broadcaster under the condition of anonymity. The 44-year-old coach, who has been with the team since 2012, has led the club to significant success but now finds himself under scrutiny due to disturbing accusations made by women within the club.
The allegations against Tshabalala include making inappropriate sexual remarks to players and female staff, such as asking personal and intrusive questions about their private areas. In one of the more concerning claims, it is alleged that Tshabalala would enter the changing room while players were undressed and refuse to leave, even when the players were completely naked.
In response to the allegations, Mamelodi Sundowns issued a statement on Saturday, confirming that an investigation into the claims would be conducted. The club emphasized that it takes these allegations seriously and has appointed the prominent law firm Bowmans to lead the investigation.
“The Board of Mamelodi Sundowns has been made aware of allegations of improper conduct that have been made by various women players against the Coach of its Ladies Team, Jerry Tshabalala,” the statement read.
The club also revealed that Tshabalala has been placed on "special leave" while the investigation is underway, stressing that this decision was made to allow the investigation to proceed without interference and to protect the rights of all involved parties.
"Sundowns has, in the interim, put Coach Jerry Tshabalala on special leave pending the outcome of the investigation. This is not done to pre-empt the outcome of the investigation, but to ensure that the investigation can proceed expeditiously and protect the rights of all parties," the statement continued.
The club assured that should the investigation uncover facts that require action, the appropriate steps will be taken. Mamelodi Sundowns has committed to making public the results of the investigation and any subsequent actions.
As the investigation unfolds, Tshabalala's future with the club remains uncertain, and the football community eagerly awaits further developments in the case.