Former Ajax Cape Town and Maritzburg United skipper Travis Graham has started a new exciting chapter with Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam in Dubai.
Graham’s Premier Soccer League career was defined by his rise through the youth ranks of Ajax Cape Town (later renamed to Cape Town Spurs). He became one of the club’s youngest-ever captains and a key figure in their midfield.
He joined the club as a nine-year-old and made his professional debut for the senior team at the age of 19 in 2012. His time at Ajax, which lasted six years until 2018, was marked by consistent performances. Graham led the team to a top-eight finish and a memorable 2015 MTN8 Cup victory, where they defeated Kaizer Chiefs in the final.
SUBSEQUENT CHAPTERS AFTER AJAX CAPE TOWN
A contractual dispute led to his departure from Ikamva. Graham, hailing from Cape Town’s southern suburb of Ottery, had moved on to brief stints with other local clubs. They included Cape Town City and Maritzburg United.
After a long spell without a club, he joined Christchurch United in New Zealand before retiring in late 2025 at the age of 32.
He has since transitioned into coaching and education roles within football, with the latest venture confirmed this week.
“I am incredibly proud to announce that I have accepted the role of Head of Football Operations at Ajax Academy Dubai,” Graham said.
“Everyone knows what this club means to me. To be able to take everything I learned as a player in the Ajax system. And now pass it on to the next generation in Dubai. It is a dream come true.
“We are going to create something special here, focused on high standards, real development. And creating an environment to fall in love with the beautiful game.”
Ajax Amsterdam’s project in Dubai is about developing young players. It is led by the Ajax Academy Dubai and a partnership with Sharjah FC. They train boys and girls aged five to 15 in the club’s famous philosophy.
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