Coach starts academy to unearth elite athletes for the BNAC

In his latest attempt to expand his range to full-time coaching, Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) runner and juniors coach, Nkanyiso Mthembu, has started the Nkanyiso Athletics Academy.

He envisions helping Northerns produce elite young athletes.

Driven by a desire to turn the BNAC into one of the competitive clubs in the track and field and cross-country circuits, the coach plans to develop athletes who will compete for the country in major competitions like the Olympic Games and World Cross Country champs.

Respect

Mthembu stressed that the BNAC wasn’t respected enough despite producing some of the most consistent runners in the province, with several athletes becoming national champions last year.

“I want the club to grow and be respected like all other clubs that produce elite runners. When our athletes go into track and field and cross-country competitions, I want other clubs to show us respect. I aim to help one Northerns athlete to compete at the Olympics,” he said.

The Comrades Marathon silver medalist explained he owes a lot to the club for moulding him into the athlete he is and giving him opportunities he would otherwise have not received anywhere else.

“I love the BNAC so much. The club took me in when I had nothing. They shaped me into a better runner. That’s why I also want to help.”

The 33-year-old will sit for his coaching badges in June when the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) hosts the ASA coaches’ level one and two course at Germiston Stadium.

He thanked the BNAC’s Stephanie Gormley and her husband for pushing him to pursue a coaching licence to become a professional and certified coach.

No ordinary coach

Already enjoying some success, with runner Siyanda Madlabane landing a silver at last year’s ASA cross-country champs, Mthembu’s passion caught the attention of Benoni resident Elnette Kotze, who was looking for a coach for her daughter.

“My husband and I had been keeping an eye on one of his athletes, Siyanda Madlabane, for some time. We were amazed by what he has achieved,” said Kotze.

“After the District 17 champs, my husband approached Nkanyiso and asked him if he would be willing to coach our daughter, Carmen. He told him to bring her to training,” she added.

She said after Carmen’s first training session, the smile on the youngster’s face was enough to convince them that Mthembu was no ordinary coach.

“He puts in the effort. He doesn’t just blow the whistle but trains with them and encourages them to push harder.”

After seeing Mthembu’s dedication and commitment, Kotze and her husband offered to help the coach grow his academy.

“We see a coach that will have multiple athetes competing provincially, nationally and someday, internationally. His passion, dedication and great personality will shine through every athlete that trains under him.”

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