Betway Premiership side Richards Bay FC have confirmed the appointment of Brandon Truter as their new head coach for the new 2024/25 PSL season.
The KZN club parted ways with Vusumuzi Vilakazi earlier this week in a shock move that was first reported by FARPost.
Vilakazi’s departure came as a surprise to many, given his recent success in guiding the club to Premiership safety through the PSL Promotional/Relegation playoffs. In a surprise turn of events, Richards Bay unexpectedly offered Vilakazi an assistant coach role instead of the previously agreed-upon head coach position. The terms of the proposed contract were altered, prompting the coach to tender his resignation.
The former Golden Arrows coach left Bay after Phakwe Gas CEO Thabiso Tenyane expressed the company’s desire for an experienced coach to lead the team.
Truter, who has previously coached Moroka Swallows, AmaZulu FC and Sekhukhune United, is seemingly ‘experienced’ coach Richards Bay and the club’s new R100 million worth sponsor Phakwe Gas settled for. This decision follows the club’s failed attempts to secure Lehlohonolo Seema. The club also expressed interest in Rulani Mokwena and Benni McCarthy.
TRUTER TAKES HELM AT RICHARDS BAY
The KZN outfit welcomed Truter into the fold on Wednesday afternoon. The coach joins the club following a stint as technical director at Upington City FC.
“Richards Bay Football Club would like to announce the appointment of Brandon Truter as the Club’s new Head Coach for the season 2024/2025 with an option to renew,” reads the club statement.
“Coach Brandon Truter is a familiar face in South African Football. He’s a former Coach of Sekhukhune United. He is also a familiar face in Richards Bay FC, having coached the club during the 2018/2019 season. He brings a lot of experience to the Club.
“We welcome him to his new role and wish him all the best.”
Meanwhile, Mostepe Foundation Championship side Upington City FC expressed sincere gratitude to Truter for his exceptional dedication and invaluable contributions.
The club acknowledged Truter’s instrumental role in the team’s development and success, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the club’s goals.
“Coach Trurer’s commitment to the team’s growth and success has been evident. In addition we acknowledge his efforts in shaping the squad into a competitive force.
“We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and plans. We are confident that his skills and experience will continue to make a positive impact in the world of football.
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