Former Orlando Pirates administrator Senzo Mbatha has returned to the South African sporting landscape after several years working in football administration across the continent.
Mbatha has taken up a new position at Tuks Sport, where he has been appointed Deputy Director: Sports Operations Management.
The University of Pretoria’s sporting division confirmed the appointment on Thursday, welcoming Mbatha and highlighting the experience and leadership he brings to the organisation.
Mbatha brings extensive football administration experience
The 43-year-old has built an impressive career in sports administration, with experience spanning some of the biggest football organisations in South Africa and Tanzania.
Mbatha served as an administrative officer at Orlando Pirates between 2011 and 2013, having taken over the position from Floyd Mbele.
His career also included a spell as a Project Manager within the Premier Soccer League, while he was involved in preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup before joining Pirates.
Mbatha later gained continental experience through a brief stint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 2017.
Tanzania provided Mbatha with another platform
After his time in South Africa, Mbatha continued to develop his career in Tanzania, where he worked with some of the country’s biggest football clubs.
He spent two seasons as a football administrator at Simba SC, before also becoming involved with Tanzanian giants Yanga SC.
His time in Tanzania added further international experience to an already extensive administrative background.
Now back in South Africa, Mbatha will turn his attention to his new responsibilities at Tuks Sport, where his experience across professional football and major sporting events could prove valuable.
Could Mbatha return to the PSL?
Mbatha’s return to South African sport is likely to attract attention from the local football fraternity, particularly given his previous involvement with Orlando Pirates and the PSL.
Whether his latest appointment eventually leads to another role within professional football remains to be seen.
For now, his focus will be on helping Tuks Sport strengthen its sports operations while bringing the knowledge accumulated during his years on the African football administration circuit.
Could we see Senzo Mbatha back in the PSL in the future? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
