Kristopher Bergman (pictured), newly appointed coach of Ubuntu Academy’s Second Division outfit, is aware that he’ll have his work cut out for the “rebuilding process” in the upcoming 2023/24 ABC Motsepe campaign.
The former Stellenbosch FC, Santos and Chippa United player will not only be stepping out of the shadows of the successful and experienced mentor in Moritz Kossman, but will also have to find a way to make his ”new look’ outfit as competitive as he can.
Kossman has subsequently moved on to greener pastures at Cape Town City where he’ll be taking charge of their Diski team.
Bergman emphasized that he would carry on the philosophy of the academy by promoting youngsters and giving them a platform to reach their full potential.
“This season is a period of rebuilding for us, as we’ve moved on nine out of our 11 starters from last year. So, we’ll heavily depend on the emerging talents from our academy.
“Our aim is always to win every game, but we’re taking it step by step without getting ahead of ourselves. There will be challenges this season, but I am excited to take them head-on,” Bergman stated.
The 34-year-old Bergman, who happens to be one of the youngest coaches in the league, indicated that he learnt a heck of a lot from Kossman and hopefully he, too, can add value to the academy.
“I am really honoured to have been offered the ABC coaching role at Ubuntu Football Club following the departure of the talented Moritz Kossman,” said Bergman.
“My vision is very much aligned with the football club, we want to improve every player and ready them for a career in professional football. My commitment to promoting an exciting and attacking brand of football remains a priority.
“It’s a quality that we’ve become synonymous with over our short history. I am very excited about what lies ahead,” the former professional defender added.
Bergman, who holds a Caf D-Licence that includes specialised training in ‘Advanced Periodisation’ under the tutelage of the Dutch professional coach Raymond Verheijen is under no illusion of the task that awaits him.
The well-travelled Bergman’s career as a pro player for more than a decade will also surely put him in good stead on the local front. However, history has shown that this is not always guaranteed. Therefore, the young coach has applied for his Uefa B-Licence.
“We promote a growth mindset and with that in mind, we will always have our work cut out for us. Therefore, it is important for us that we constantly find ways to improve. The dedication shown by both academy players and newcomers has been impressive thus far.
“I’m confident by the time the league kicks off, we’ll be fully prepared to take on any challenge that comes our way,” Bergam concluded.
