The University of Cape Town (UCT) has appointed former Bafana Bafana international Nasief Morris as the head coach of its women’s football team. Morris, a Santos FC legend, takes over from Ahmed Parker, who led the team to back-to-back Sasol League Western Cape titles.
Morris, who recently served as an assistant coach at Cape Town Spurs alongside Shaun Bartlett, brings a wealth of experience from his illustrious playing career. He began his journey with Santos in Cape Town before venturing into European football with stints at Aris Thessaloniki and Panathinaikos in Greece, Recreativo de Huelva and Racing Santander in Spain, and Apollon Limassol in Cyprus. He concluded his playing career with SuperSport United.
This appointment comes as UCT’s women’s football team gears up for its debut season in the 2025 Hollywoodbets Super League, following their second-place finish in the 2024 National Play-offs.
A strategic appointment for a new era
Mark Bashe, UCT’s Manager of Sport and Recreation, highlighted the significance of Morris’s appointment: “We had to ensure we got the right coaching for this league, and Nasief was the perfect choice. His international renown underscores our commitment to taking women’s football seriously. This move is about inspiring aspiring women footballers to come to UCT. Our immediate goal is establishing ourselves in the league, building our product, and avoiding relegation. We believe Nasief will take us far, and his presence will motivate our players immensely.”
Bashe emphasised that UCT was recruiting both student and non-student athletes, with a focus on balancing academic excellence and athletic performance.
Thambolinye Mzoneli, a senior player in the team, expressed her excitement about the new era. “Having a coach like Nasief with so much experience is incredibly motivating. His tactical skills bring a new vibe to the team. We have the talent, the mentality, and the willpower to succeed. With a great coach, we’re aiming for a top-three finish,” she said.
Vision for the future
“This is an exciting challenge. My main objective is to cement our place in the league and help the team adapt to the demands of the Hollywoodbets Super League. I know this is not men’s football. However, football is football, and I’m here to improve the players both individually and as a team. I’m grateful for the technical team’s support and am confident we’ll work together to achieve our goals,” said Morris.
Morris acknowledged the pressure that comes with his name and the role. “I know the pressure that comes with this role and much is expected from me, but that’s part of football. With the support of my team, we’ll overcome hurdles and stick to our objectives for the season.”
The technical team supporting Morris includes Shaquille Williams as assistant coach, Mark Kapman as goalkeeper coach, and former Orlando Pirates stalwart Kamal Sait as coach educator.
Morris’s appointment signals UCT’s commitment to elevating women’s football, inspiring young athletes, and showcasing the university’s dedication to excellence in sport.
