Newly appointed AmaZulu FC DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) coach Kurt Lentjies has expressed excitement about taking on what he describes as a “significant development task” at the Durban-based club.
Lentjies was recently unveiled as Usuthu’s new DDC coach, replacing Mncedisi ‘Dada’ Sibiya, who had led the reserve side for a year after joining the club in October 2024. The former midfielder views the appointment as an important step in his coaching journey and believes the role presents an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the club’s future.
“I’m thrilled to be here and excited about the opportunity to take the club to the next level,” Lentjies told the AmaZulu media department. “While I haven’t coached in KwaZulu-Natal before, I know the football culture well from my playing days.”
Lentjies brings experience from various environments, having previously served as head coach at Chippa United before working at FC Ravens in the ABC Motsepe League. “I’ve previously served as head coach as well at Chippa United like two to three years ago and later worked at FC Ravens in the ABC Motsepe League, so this is another important step in a different environment.”
A key part of AmaZulu’s revamped DDC setup is the appointment of Thabo Mngomeni as assistant coach, a move Lentjies has welcomed enthusiastically. The former Orlando Pirates midfielder recently worked with the national Under-17 side, adding further experience to Usuthu’s youth structures.
“It’s a fantastic working relationship. I actually requested to work with Thabo at my previous club as well,” Lentjies added. “He was my coach back when I was a 22-year-old in the First Division at Ikapa Sporting, so we’ve shared a strong bond since then. I know exactly what he brings as an assistant coach.”
Lentjies believes Mngomeni’s background and understanding of youth football will play a vital role in player development. “He has worked with the national Under-17 team and brings valuable experience. Having someone like that around is great for the boys, and I believe it will benefit their development immensely.”
Lentjies’ appointment comes after AmaZulu implemented a sweeping overhaul of their youth development structures in December. The club confirmed the departure of five key technical staff members as part of a comprehensive restructuring aimed at realigning its junior coaching philosophy.
AmaZulu officially parted ways with Celokuhle Mbanjwa (Youth Technical Director), Mncedisi ‘Dada’ Sibiya (DDC coach), Andile ‘Sguda’ Cele (Under-19 coach), Musa Langa (goalkeeper coach) and Nqoba Mdladla (Under-15 coach). While the club has not disclosed the exact reasons behind the mass exits, sources close to AmaZulu suggest there was dissatisfaction at senior level regarding the overall direction of the youth structures.
Lentjies now finds himself at the centre of that rebuild, tasked with restoring clarity, consistency and progression within Usuthu’s development pathway.
