Mamelodi Sundowns has launched a formal investigation into serious allegations of improper conduct made against the head coach of its women’s team, Jerry Tshabalala.
The claims, which have been made by several female players, suggest that Tshabalala engaged in inappropriate behavior, including entering the players’ changing rooms while they were undressed and making inappropriate sexual remarks to both players and female staff.
According to reports by SABC Sport, Tshabalala allegedly asked players intrusive questions about their private parts, including inquiries about how many times they shave and how their private areas look or are shaped.
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These allegations have sparked outrage and concern within the football community, prompting the club to take immediate action.
In response to the claims, Mamelodi Sundowns issued a statement confirming that Tshabalala has been placed on special leave while a thorough investigation is conducted. The club has appointed the law firm Bowmans to carry out the inquiry and report their findings to the board as soon as possible.
“The board of Mamelodi Sundowns has been made aware of allegations of improper conduct that have been made by various women players against the coach of its ladies’ team, Jerry Tshabalala,” the statement reads. “Mamelodi Sundowns views these allegations in a very serious light and has appointed a top law firm, Bowmans, to investigate these allegations and to report to the board as soon as possible.”
𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡 ‼️
Mamelodi Sundowns have placed the head coach of their ladies team, Jerry Tshabalala on special leave and opened an investigation to be conducted by law firm, Bowmans over allegations of improper conduct that have been made by various women players. pic.twitter.com/fLm7d7E5xt
— iDiski Times (@iDiskiTimes) December 21, 2024
The club emphasized that Tshabalala’s placement on special leave is a precautionary measure designed to allow the investigation to proceed without interference and to protect the rights of all parties involved. The statement also made clear that if the investigation uncovers facts that warrant action, the board will take appropriate steps.
“Mamelodi Sundowns will in due course make announcements on the findings of the investigation and the action to be taken,” the club concluded.
Tshabalala has been the head coach of the Masandawana Ladies since 2012, leading the team to significant success, including two CAF Champions League titles and domination of the Hollywoodbets Super League.
