Kaizer Chiefs' commitment to developing young talent through their Diski Development Challenge (DDC) program is bearing fruit.
Several academy graduates are earning national team recognition while making their mark in the senior squad.
DDC head coach Vela Khumalo believes the increasing number of Chiefs youth products representing South Africa at various levels validates the club's development philosophy and methodology.
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"It goes without saying that for them to be playing for the (junior) national team, they have been identified in their teams. In this case, we are talking about Kaizer Chiefs. That means they were identified from there, so it simply says we are doing things right from the development side," said Khumalo.
The veteran coach expressed optimism that the Amakhosi youth program's success could eventually translate to greater recognition for the senior team, particularly given their strong start to the current Betway Premiership campaign.
Evidence of Excellence
Khumalo pointed to recent performances as proof that Chiefs' youngsters are ready for senior opportunities when given the chance.
"It is evidenced enough to say that whenever they are given the opportunity at first team level, then they do well. Look at (Naledi) Hlongwane in the preseason when he was introduced; he scored the winning goal. When he came in at the start of the season, he played well, so it is only a matter of time when these boys are brought in and the coach believes in them and gives them more opportunities, then they will do well. We have evidence. We have (Aden) McCarthy getting the man of the match in two consecutive games, so that on its own says a lot about us," Khumalo added.
The coach highlighted the impact of other academy graduates who have successfully transitioned to senior football.
Khumalo emphasized that consistent opportunities and coaching confidence are crucial factors in helping young players realise their potential at the highest level.
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International Recognition
Chiefs' youth development success is set to be showcased on the global stage, with the club expected to have five players selected for South Africa's Under-20 World Cup squad, traveling to Chile later this month.
The quintet includes promising talents Mfundo Vilakazi, Naledi Hlongwane, Luke Baartman, Sfiso Timba, and goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba—all products of the Chiefs academy system.
"We are hopeful that one day it will be with the first team (to get more national team call-ups), now that the first team is doing well, maybe it will go into the first team and they will see more of the first team players being recognised in the national team," Khumalo said.
The coach's confidence reflects Chiefs' broader vision of creating a sustainable pathway from youth development to senior success, both domestically and internationally.
