Simba SC head coach Steve Barker has explained the reasoning behind bringing the Tanzanian giants to Polokwane, South Africa, for a mini training camp during the FIFA international break.
The Msimbazi giants are currently undergoing a 10-day training camp at The Ranch Resort, located just outside Polokwane in the Limpopo province.
The facility is highly regarded across Southern Africa and is frequently utilised by several Betway Premiership clubs for pre-season preparations. Notably, it also served as the base camp for the Mexican national team during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Barker, who previously used the venue during his successful tenure at former Carling Knockout Cup champions Stellenbosch FC, cited the world-class infrastructure as the main reason for his decision.
WHY SIMBA SC COACH STEVE BARKER RECOMMENDED THE RANCH RESORT IN POLOKWANE
“Firstly, I know the place, and having been here before, I know it has everything we need and require,” Barker told Simba SC’s media team.
“It’s a beautiful environment. The training facilities and the pitches are of a very high quality, and it offers all the necessary supporting amenities, including the gym and recovery facilities.”
SIMBA SC USING FIFA BREAK TO RE-ENERGISE IN SOUTH AFRICA
Barker emphasised that the FIFA international break provided an ideal window to rectify technical shortfalls. He noted that Simba went straight into the CECAFA tournament in Kigali without a proper pre-season, making their current camp essential for sharpening their preparations for the rest of the campaign.
“You are within walking distance from the training grounds to your room. Everything is centralised, and the staff knows how to look after professional teams,” Barker added. “For me, it’s an ideal environment to fully focus, re-energise, and realign ourselves.
“As you know, we didn’t really have a proper pre-season training camp—we went straight into a tournament in Kigali, Rwanda. So, this camp was necessary for us to bring the team together, work hard, and fix areas we felt needed improvement. It really is a great place to be.”
RELATED STORY: Steve Barker secures third monthly award at Simba SC
