Greg Etafia reflects on coaching Melusi Buthelezi and Fiacre Ntwari

TS Galaxy goalkeeper coach Greg Etafia, has reflected on his time working with Melusi Buthelezi and Fiacre Ntwari before their respective transfers to Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.

Etafia has been instrumental in developing TS Galaxy’s goalkeeping talent since his appointment as goalkeeper coach in the 2020/21 DStv Premiership season.

Etafia’s journey at The Rockets saw him initially work with Melusi Buthelezi, who at the time was the club’s fourth-choice goalkeeper. Through Etafia’s coaching and Buthelezi’s dedication, the keeper ascended through the ranks to become the undisputed number one at the club.

His impressive performances even earned him a coveted call-up to Bafana Bafana. Recognising his potential, Soweto giants Pirates secured Buthelezi’s services ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Etafia’s goalkeeping expertise continued to bear fruit as he subsequently worked with another promising talent, Rwandan international Fiacre Ntwari. After just one season under Etafia’s tutelage, Ntwari’s abilities caught the eye of Kaizer Chiefs, another Soweto powerhouse, who acquired his services for the 2024/25 campaign.

GREG ETAFIA COMMENTS ON WORKING WITH MELUSI BUTHELEZI AND FIACRE NTWARI

The former Moroka Swallows goalkeeper is grateful for the opportunity that he got to be part of the TS Galaxy family. He gave credit to head coach Sead Ramovic and the goalkeepers he has been working with.

“I think it’s a good thing for a team like TS Galaxy and for me as a goalkeeper coach to be in that journey. Melusi [Buthelezi] was a fourth choice before he became a first keeper; Fiacre [Ntwari] comes the first season, and now he’s gone,” Etafia told FARPost.

“Glory to God for the opportunity TS Galaxy gave me and most especially to the goalkeepers for their effort. They really pushed hard and, see where they are now. But credit must be given to the head coach; Sead [Ramovic] is one person who guides me a lot in terms of goalkeeping.

“He’s a mentor, apart from head coach, in personal life generally he’s a good person and he gave me the opportunity to work very well.”

RELATED STORY: What Galaxy goalkeeper Buthelezi wants to achieve at Bafana