Former SA junior international Lebo Moloto, who retired just over a year ago to pursue a career in coaching, has announced a new venture in the USA.
Following his retirement in 2024, the 35-year-old was appointed as a coach at the Tulsa SC Girls Junior Academy. He has hit the ground running in his new role, already scooping a Coach of the Month award at the club.
Moloto’s American journey began in 2009 when he moved to play college soccer at Lindsey Wilson College. His talent was first spotted at age 16 during an international tournament in Cape Town.
The Limpopo-born playmaker enjoyed a successful professional career abroad, featuring for clubs such as Des Moines Menace, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Swope Park Rangers, and Nashville SC before joining FC Tulsa in 2020. Beyond the pitch, Moloto remains committed to his roots through his foundation, which supports underprivileged children in his hometown.
A former Under-17 international, Moloto was a key member of the South African squad that reached the final of the 2007 COSAFA Youth Championship.
YOUNG SOUTH AFRICAN COACH ANNOUNCES PROMOTION AHEAD OF NEW SEASON
Moloto has taken to his Instagram platform to announce that he has now been promoted to be Tulsa’s Girls Junior Academy Director for the 2026/27 season
“Stepping into a new chapter as Girls Junior Academy Director, and I’m excited for what’s ahead,” wrote Moloto. “Grateful to work alongside experienced leaders who challenge, guide, and inspire me to keep growing every day.
“My journey as a youth coach has always been about more than the game; it’s about mentoring, building confidence, and creating opportunities for young athletes to thrive.”
LEBO MOLOTO SHARES HIS PASSION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW PLAYERS
Moloto added: “That same passion carries into this role as we continue to grow the academy, focusing on a holistic environment where development on and off the field comes first.”
Reflecting on his dual role as a coach and a philanthropist, Moloto highlighted the driving force behind his career:
“From coaching to running a foundation – the Lebo Moloto Foundation that supports kids, my purpose has always been clear: invest in the next generation and help them become their best selves. Looking forward to building something special together.”
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