It will be interesting to see what moves Goulburn Athletic’s dynamic head coach Sardick Barends (pictured) will make when the LFA season comes to an end.
Balla, as Barends is called, has been operating as a player/coach for the ABC Motsepe League side Junction Rovers and Goulburn respectively for a few seasons now, because it does not run concurrently it allows Barends to play competitive football when he is not coaching.
The 31-year-old Barends, who holds a Caf D-licence, caught the eye when he steered the Bonteheuwel-based side to the league title as well as their very first Coke Cup final, eventually losing out to the defending champs Diadora FC.
With two seasons of consistent hard work and making a growing impact on the community team, many are wondering if he will choose to hang up his boots at the end of the season or continue in the ABC league.
The former Glendene United defender has shown considerable potential and commitment, earning respect and admiration for his approach and results – while he is fully aware that there is still much to learn, but his future in coaching could be promising which leaves him still undecided.
“I love my current role, and while it’s challenging to transition from playing to coaching, especially within a single season, I’m fully focused on the team for the rest of this season,” Balla told No Bones with Jones.
“The journey has been rewarding, and once the season concludes, I will take the time to evaluate what’s best for my future. For now, my commitment remains with the team and the challenges ahead,” he added.
