TS Galaxy coach Bernard Parker has revealed why the club decided to secure the services of former Kaizer Chiefs starlet Siphesihle Tati ahead of the upcoming season.
The Rockets have signed the 21-year-old attacking midfielder on a long-term contract from Motsepe Foundation Championship side Lerumo Lions FC.
As previously reported by FARPost, Lerumo gave the green light for Tati to train with the Mpumalanga-based outfit for assessment, where he quickly impressed the technical team.
Tati’s football journey began with the Amakhosi Under-17 team at just 14 years old. His impressive displays eventually earned him a promotion to the club’s DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] reserve side.
The midfielder helped the Chiefs’ reserve team clinch a historic, first-ever DDC title during the 2024/25 season.
BERNARD PARKER ON WHY TS GALAXY SNAPPED UP SIPHESIHLE TATI
Speaking to journalists following the club’s player unveiling ceremony in Pretoria on Saturday, 18 July, Parker highlighted Tati’s background and character as key reasons for his recruitment.
“Well, I know Tati because I know Nkosi [Ntandoyenkosi Nkosi] as well; they are best friends. I know that he comes from a strong foundation in terms of his development,” Parker said.
“He also comes from a good family. With the experience he gained in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, he has built his character as a player. So, he came to us with great character, and I said to the chairman [Tim Sukazi], ‘We can’t let him go back to Lerumo Lions; he needs to stay here, and please make it happen’.”
The former Bafana Bafana international added that the club is committed to nurturing the youngster’s talent to ensure he reaches his full potential in South African football.
“He’s now with us, and he has a bright future ahead of him. In this club and this country, special players like him need to be polished and protected in order for them to grow,” Parker concluded.
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