No Bones with Jones can confirm that former Bafana Bafana striker Nathan Paulse has been appointed as Technical Director at ABC Motsepe League outfit Ikapa Sporting.
Paulse was officially unveiled to the squad on Wednesday and joins a technical structure headed by coach Zane Ryklief, alongside assistants Darren Crowie, Nazroedien Thomas and Ashley Hannival, with Shane McGregor serving as General Manager.
The appointment is an intriguing move by club owner Shaun Pietersen as Ikapa look to kick on in the second half of the season. The side currently occupies sixth place with 12 points from nine matches, just six points behind leaders FN Rangers.
And perhaps Pietersen believes the 44-year-old Paulse is exactly what the doctor ordered.
Known for his infectious positivity and knack for inspiring players, the former Hout Bay United FC figure has built a reputation for turning lemons into lemonade, half-chances into opportunities and, on occasion, frustrated footballers into believers again.
While Paulse’s official title may be Technical Director, some at Ikapa might be hoping Paulse can double up as an unofficial sports psychologist, life coach and confidence mechanic as the club attempts to shift from mid-table passengers to promotion contenders.
With expectations rising and the season entering a crucial phase, Pietersen may well be banking on Paulse’s experience, leadership and man-management skills to unlock the next level of performance from an already talented squad.
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