Kwanele Kopo, a former youth coach of Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams, has expressed his pride for the goalkeeper's nomination for the Yashin Trophy, which will be awarded alongside the Ballon d'Or on Monday.
The Bafana goalkeeper had an outstanding season both at club and international level. He was a standout performer for Bafana at AFCON, going all the way to win the Golden Glove.
His excellence domestically earned him the prestigious PSL Footballer of the Season, Goalkeeper of the Season accolades and SAFJA award.
He has also been nominated in three CAF awards – Interclub Player of the Year, Player of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Year.
Kopo expressed that he feels a deep sense of emotion when recounting the challenges Williams encountered on his journey to success.
WHY KOPO FEELS EMOTIONAL WHEN RECOUNTING WILLIAMS STORY
“I don't know how many times I've had to speak about Ronwen. And every single time I get emotional about it because I think we know where we come from,” said Kopo.
“We know the challenges that he had at the age of 18, 19. And it's amazing how he's revived himself after that. Doing exceptionally well for Supersport United.
“Moving to sundowns, doing exceptionally well. Going on to Bafana, I remember the first game he conceded five goals. Today, he's the pillar of Bafana, he's the captain of the team.
“So, I think, for myself personally, I'm very, very proud of him. I think the people of Eastern Cape are very, very proud of him. It's a token of hope for a lot of kids in this area that there is talent in the Eastern Cape.
“There's a lot of talent in the Eastern Cape. And for South African kids, they've got to believe.
“And I think South Africa is very, very proud of him. So, I think, coming from this area, myself, I have to say it, we're very proud of you, Ronwen.
“And we wish you all the best for the Yashin Trophy. But I think it's a major achievement for South Africa. It's a massive, massive achievement for him to even be mentioned in those lines.
“So, whatever the outcome is on Monday, I think he's achieved a lot already. And I'm so very, very proud of him. And happy for his family also.
“For everything that they've gone through. For the tragedy they experienced in 2010. And for Ronwen to dedicate the rest of his career to his brother. His spirit lives on in him.”
