Lehlohonolo Seema takes helm at Siwelele FC

Lehlohonolo Seema has been officially appointed as the head coach of the newly established Siwelele FC, marking a significant step in the club’s ambition to revive the legacy of Bloemfontein Celtic.

The announcement came directly from the club’s official X account, stating, “From us, to you. We’re proud to announce Lehlohonolo Seema as the new Head Coach of Siwelele Football Club. A new chapter begins.”

Seema, who has been without a coaching role since leaving Sekhukhune United in early March, brings a deep connection to the beloved “Siwelele.”

Born in Lesotho, he dedicated eight years of his playing career to Bloemfontein Celtic before moving to Orlando Pirates. He later returned to coach the team and remains a cherished figure in the Bloemfontein community, making him a natural fit for the club’s new direction.

The acquisition of SuperSport United’s status by businessman Calvin Lee John, son of Sports Minister Gaston Mackenzie, signals a clear intent to restore the former glory of Bloemfontein Celtic.

While initial approaches were made to coaches like Rulani Mokwena (who declined), Shaun Bartlett, and Calvin Johnson, Seema’s strong ties to the club ultimately secured his appointment. Although Siwelele FC will initially operate from Gauteng, plans are in motion to eventually relocate the club to the Free State.

Seema is wasting no time, kicking off preparations this week with a friendly match against Orbit College. Siwelele FC will play their home fixtures at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, the traditional home ground of SuperSport United, when the season officially begins on the weekend of July 9.

Their inaugural match as the ‘newcomers’ will be a home game against Golden Arrows on Saturday, August 9. Just three days later, they will travel to Rustenburg to face Orbit College at Olympia Park Stadium.

The team then returns to Lucas Moripe Stadium on August 19 to host Polokwane City FC, followed by an away fixture at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit a week later. Siwelele FC’s fifth match of the season will be a home game against Richards Bay FC on August 29.