In order to make sense of Sardick Barends’ appointment as head coach of Silver Spurs, it will certainly help to give a bit more context.
Now, Spurs boast with the mantle of being one of the longest serving teams in Safa Cape Town’s Third Division League with over two decades of experience.
During this time, the Silvertown-based outfit has won various cup competitions and tournaments, but could never conquer the so-called Graveyard League – and this monkey has been sitting on their back ever since.
Needless to say, Spurs’ hierarchy has tried almost everything to attain success – from experienced high-profile coaches to former players and even executive members – that’s how desperate they are in breaking that curse, but it was all to no avail.
This time round, a different approach was used to find a new coach in the form of Sardick Barends, who was certainly a breath of fresh air – along with his partner in crime, assistant Cheslyn “Giggs” Tajoodien, they were tasked to lead Spurs to the elusive “Promise Land.”
One positive aspect that already bodes well for them is that they have managed to settle their coaching staff early. The next step is to assemble a squad.
Barends, a former Glendene United and Junction Rover left-back, is also no stranger in the football circles. Apart from his two-year stint with Goulburn Athletic, he has played an assistant role to coaches like Zain Abrahams at Diadora FC, where he won league titles and attained promotional success as well.
“Balla” as the 32-year-old Bonteheuwel resident is better known, says he is relishing the prospect of working alongside an experienced campaigner in his assistant, Giggs.
“Firstly, I’d like to thank Diadora for the opportunity they afforded me,” Barends pointed out to No Bones with Jones. “Then, I also want to thank Silver Spurs Football Club for placing their trust in me. As a young coach, being given my first opportunity as a head coach is something that I’m incredibly grateful for. It’s a role I’ve worked towards for a long time.
“I’m embracing it with both hands because this is what I live for. Every coach dreams of leading a team, and when the opportunity comes, you have to be ready to take it. Silver Spurs is a club with a rich history and strong traditions, and I understand the responsibility that comes with representing a badge like this. It’s a privilege to be part of the next chapter of the club.
“I’m also excited to work alongside Coach Cheslyn Giggs. Having someone who has spent so much of his life at the club and truly understands its culture is invaluable. From the moment we started working together, we’ve connected well, shared the same vision, and aligned on what we want to build. That partnership will be important as we move forward,” he added.
Barends emphasized that they are under no illusion of the cut-throat and unforgiving nature of the league and the task that lies ahead.
“We know the challenge ahead won’t be easy,” Barends added. “This is one of the toughest leagues in South African football, and there’s a reason people call it the graveyard league. Every game is a battle, and nothing is guaranteed. We haven’t set unrealistic targets for ourselves. Our focus is to compete, work hard every single week, and give the supporters something to believe in again. If we do that consistently, the results will follow.
“Lastly, I hope this appointment inspires other young coaches. Keep learning, keep working, and keep believing. Sometimes you need a bit of luck along the way, but if you stay committed to your craft, opportunities will come in your own time. When they do, make sure you’re ready to take them,” Barends concluded.
