Appollis reveals how Pirates helped him cope with Jayden Adams’ death

Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana star Oswin Appollis has expressed his gratitude to the club for granting him compassionate leave to mourn the passing of his close friend and teammate, Jayden Adams, before the team’s pre-season tour in Spain.

Adams passed away shortly before the Buccaneers were scheduled to depart for Europe. In a show of support, the club allowed Appollis to travel to Cape Town to be with Adams’ family during the difficult time.

The two players shared a strong bond, having been roommates during Bafana Bafana’s recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Now, the Bishop Lavis native is determined to honour his friend’s memory by dedicating himself to his career.

Appollis opens up on Pirates support

“It was very tough to take, but I thank the club for giving me a few days to go and see his family,” Appollis said as per SABC. “The loss of Jayden was very shocking, but what can I do? Only God knows the reason. I just have to man up, find the strength, and carry on doing what I love.”

Appollis was a standout performer for the Buccaneers last season, playing a pivotal role as the team secured its first league title in 14 years. He is now looking forward to the upcoming campaign with renewed determination.

“It’s very exciting entering the league as champions,” he stated. “I think we have an exciting season ahead of us because we’ve been working hard and showing our quality in pre-season.”

The Buccaneers will begin their title defence against newly-promoted Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.

Bucs forward wary of newbies Milford

While Milford FC is new to the top flight, the Richards Bay-based side is a familiar opponent, having faced Pirates in the National First Division and the Nedbank Cup last season. Appollis cautioned that they should not be underestimated.

The attacker was recently recognised for his stellar season at the Premier Soccer League’s virtual awards, where he was named Midfielder of the Season. He was one of several Pirates players who dominated the ceremony.

This season, Appollis will be without his dynamic partner, Relebohile Mofokeng, the reigning PSL Footballer of the Season, who recently completed a high-profile transfer to Belgium.

The duo was instrumental in Pirates’ domestic treble-winning campaign, combining for nearly 40 goals. Despite Mofokeng’s departure, Appollis is confident that the club has built an even stronger squad for the challenges ahead.