Iconic South African coach Pitso Mosimane has officially received an honorary doctorate from one of the country's top tertiary institution. Here's a look!
The story
The University of Johannesburg awarded Mosimane with an honorary doctorate for his immense contribution to South African football and his achievements.
Affectionately called Jingles, the tactician is the most successful South African coach in continental football, as he boasts three CAF Champions League titles, one with Mamelodi Sundowns and two with Al Ahly.
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The University of Johannesburg has conferred an honorary Doctorate to @TheRealPitso
— m a s h è s h a ?? (@_mashesha) July 24, 2024
Congratulations Dr Pitso Mosimane???????? pic.twitter.com/gYBP7s5yiH
UJ wrote on X: "Today, excitement is in the air as UJ confer an honorary doctoral degree on Pitso Mosimane, one of South Africa's most celebrated football coaches.
"This honour recognises his exceptional contributions to the sport and his commitment to excellence and innovation
"Pitso Johnny Hamilton Mosimane, born in Kagiso, Gauteng Province, is an internationally acclaimed football coach. His professional career began in 1982 as a midfielder for Jomo Cosmos Football Club.
"He also played for Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates and had stints in Greece, Belgium, and Qatar. Mosimane represented Bafana Bafana during the 1993/1994 season.
"Mosimane's coaching career started in 1995. He has coached teams such as Mamelodi Sundowns, SuperSport United, Bafana Bafana, Al Ahly SC in Egypt, and Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia. In 2022, he founded the Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools, dedicated to developing young soccer talent across Africa.
The Bishop of football, Dr Pitso Mosimane ???? pic.twitter.com/lYbUy2zEmo
— m a s h è s h a ?? (@_mashesha) July 24, 2024
"He began as an Assistant Coach in Belgium before moving to Mamelodi Sundowns' youth team. He later led the SuperSport United senior team to multiple victories, including the SAA Super 8 Cup and the ABSA Cup. His success earned him the South African Football Association Coach of the Year Award in 2010.
"As Head Coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, Mosimane won numerous titles, including the CAF Champions League and CAF Super Cup. He was named CAF Coach of The Year in 2016 and ranked among the top ten managers globally by IFFHS.
"His tenure at Al Ahly Sports Club saw further successes, including winning the Egyptian Premier League and finishing third in the FIFA Club World Cup consecutively. He is now ploughing his trade in the Middle East and is recognised as an international football coach.
"Mosimane's contributions extend beyond coaching; he is a vocal advocate for African football and has significantly impacted the development of young African players."
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Among the esteemed guests present at the ceremony were Senegal boss Aliou Cisse and South African football legend Jomo Sono.