Our incredible team of coaches teach football skills and tactics to the players, and motivate them to fulfil their potential. Not only that, they act as advisors and mentors, facilitators of self-discovery, accountability partners, and champions of growth and transformation.
Head Coach – Sheldon Bowes
Bringing a wealth of experience to head up Ballito Royals FC, Coach Sheldon’s passion for football is aimed at the development of young players, both on and off the field.
A specialist in goalkeeper skills development, he was the former head GK coach for Diphiri FC and Alexander United FC, both of whom play in the South African 2nd division (ABC Motsepe League). During his own playing career, he competed in the Eastern Transvaal provincials, the Transvaal Football League (TFL) and the South African 2nd division (formally the OK League).
Asked why he chose a career in goalkeeping, Coach Sheldon says “Goalkeepers play a pivotal role in a match. A single save can turn the tide of a game, and this responsibility can be exciting and rewarding for players like me who thrive under pressure. For those who choose it, goalkeeping is not just about preventing goals—it’s about embracing a role that is as mental as it is physical.”
Coach Sheldon’s contribution and leadership at Ballito Royals FC is invaluable to each player’s success at the club.
Coach Matlaba – U6 & U7
Born in Empangeni, Coach Matlaba obtained his D license in coaching from the South African Football Association, while playing in the local Uthongathi amateur league.
“I love to work with young stars. At this age, it’s all about developing teamwork and getting them to put the effort in on the field.”
Coach Thulani – U8
A keen player himself, Coach Thulani enjoys seeing kids mature on the pitch and how football can assist with growing their teamwork and social skills.
Coach Thulani joins Ballito Royals FC having worked with other local clubs such as Destroyer FC and Ballito United FC.
Coach Ginger – U9
Born in Stanger, Coach Ginger is another Mamelodi Sundowners supporter, but also enjoys watching Manchester City in the English Premier League.
Having obtained his D license in coaching from the South African Football Association, Coach Ginger has spent more than 14 developing youth soccer and nurturing the love of the game in young kids.
Coach PK – U10
Phakamani Mwandla is lovingly referred to as Coach PK, having started in coaching career over 9 years ago.
His first club, Barcelona United in Stanger, ignited his passion for equipping young players with the skills and knowledge to succeed on the pitch. He completed his coaching qualifications under Boston City Campus, and has been actively involved in the game since.
Coach Sam – U10
Coach Samantha fell in love with football at a young age, running rings around the boys she grew up playing with! She obtained her D license in coaching and has gone on to work with school and club team development for both boys and girls.
Originally from Newcastle, Sam is a devoted Orlando Pirates supporter and also appreciates watching Arsenal in the English Premier League.
Coach Beshu – U11
Born in Stanger, Beshu has long had a passion for football. He played in the South African 3rd and 4th divisions for Mvoti FC. Beshu obtained his D license in coaching from the South African Football Association and has been sharing his love for the sport for over ten years.
Last season, he led the then-U9 Gold team to league champions.
“What unites us is stronger than what divides us”.
Coach Senzo – U11
Growing up as a child in Vryheid, Senzo says football was his first love! “The way the game brings people together, it’s a universal language” he says.
With a BSc in Sports Coaching & Human Movement Sciences obtained from North West University, Coach Senzo previously worked at Njampela FC in the ABC Motsepe League (South African 2nd division), where they won the Primo Cup in 2023.
Coach Cebo – U12
Originally from Greytown, Cebo grew up supporting the Orlando Pirates, a tradition passed onto him by his older brother.
With a national diploma in Sport Management and his D license in coaching, Cebo enjoys working at a grassroots level and says the learning and development works both ways. Previous clubs include Savages Sport Club and Njampela FC.
Coach Daniela – U12
After receiving a full scholarship to play college football in the USA, Coach Daniela also competed in the South African Sasol League and coached in Australia.
“I believe it’s important for girls to have strong female role models in soccer – someone who truly understands their challenges and passions. As a coach, my mission is to help young players develop not only their skills on the field but also their confidence and character off it.”
Coach Liam – U13
Coach Liam is a third generation goalkeeper, having competed at a young professional playing level, as well as amateur senior. Now enjoying the coaching side of the game, he is focused on guiding young players through the physical, technical, mental and emotional aspects of The Beautiful Game.
A keen Manchester United supporter, Coach Liam joined Ballito Royals in 2025.
Ballito Royals FC 