One has to pause for a moment and reflect on what coach Muneeb Maarman has achieved with his Santos Ladies side against all odds.
In just two seasons, he has helped rebuild a competitive outfit, instilled belief within the squad and guided the club back to the business end of major competitions.
Following their runners-up achievement in Cup of Dreams early in the season, Santos now stand on the brink of another major milestone with a place in the Coke Cup final against arch-rivals Cape Town Roses, a team they have already overcome this season.
For the 37-year-old coach, the journey carries even greater significance. A former Santos player and junior boys coach, Maarman has come full circle with The People’s Team, returning to the club where he first cut his teeth in the game and helping restore its proud traditions.
“Firstly, as a former Santos player, I am incredibly proud of our girls for reaching this year’s Coke Cup final,” Marman told No Bones with Jones. “It takes hard work, discipline, commitment and belief to get to this stage, and they have earned every bit of this opportunity.
“Since returning to Santos as a coach, we have built a strong technical team, and I believe we have done an excellent job in only our second year of rebuilding, We are making steady progress, and I believe the girls are ready to compete, just as they have done over the past two seasons.
Under Maarman’s guidance, Santos Ladies have become one of the standout stories in women’s football this season.
Their blend of youthful enthusiasm and some seasoned campaigners have enabled them to compete with the best, while also laying the foundations for sustained success.
“We have a good balance of youth and experience within the squad, and the players complement one another well,” Maarman further added. “Things are not always perfect, but we are growing, learning and moving in the right direction.”
Yet, despite the growth and development displayed, Maarman remains firmly focused on the task ahead. With a maiden Coke Cup crown within touching distance, complacency is certainly not part of the plan.
“I always tell the girls that the mind is powerful. Once you change your mindset, believe in yourself and put in the hard work, your time will come. Eventually, you’ll get to tick those dreams off your bucket list.
“You just have to keep believing and working towards your goals. So, coming so far, you can rest assured we are not taking anything for granted,” Maarman concluded.
Regardless of the outcome in the final, Maarman’s impact on Santos Ladies is already undeniable.
The dream continues and Santos Ladies are only one match away from writing another memorable chapter in their story.
PHOTO SUPPLIED
