Romain Folz, who had a stint in the DStv Premiership, continues to garner attention for his methods even after leaving the country. Former players who worked under Folz are shedding light on his unique coaching style and influence on their development.
Tshepo Gumede, the 33-year-old defender who played under Folz at Marumo Gallants (now with Cape Town Spurs), highlighted Folz’s practical, match-focused sessions and the positive energy he created.
“One of the biggest things was an everyday session was literally practical to match situations and the daily environment was magnificent,” Gumede said.
The coach’s youth was never seen as a negative, according to Gumede: “His young age was never an issue… as a professional, age aside, you know how hierarchy works and what’s expected. He drilled the principles, easy as that.” The pair still maintain contact, discussing football tactics and player development.
Ismail Watenga, a 28-year-old goalkeeper who also played under Folz at Gallants (now at Golden Arrows) praises the coach’s approachability and openness. “He was a very easy coach to approach and so open to anyone who wants to learn. He always helped to bring out my abilities.”
Watenga, like Gumede, found Folz’s age a non-issue, focusing on his knowledge of the game: “To me, his age wasn’t an issue because he had a lot of knowledge about football which is the most important thing, not the age.” He remains in contact with Folz, seeking the coach’s advice on how to improve his game.
VETERAN COACH SHOWERS ROMAIN FOLZ WITH PRAISE
Meanwhile, Mohamed Aziz, a seasoned goalkeeper coach, has added to the voices showering the 33-year-old mentor with praise. Aziz worked closely with the Frenchman during his brief stint at Guinean club Horoya AC.
“He’s a great man with a genuine character,” Aziz remarked. “[Folz] values respect and honesty, and he’s incredibly dedicated to his work. He has a way of connecting with everyone and commands genuine affection.”
Aziz, who boasts over two decades of experience as a goalkeeper coach, was particularly impressed by Folz’s meticulous approach to the game. “I’ve seen many coaches, but Folz stands out. He leaves no detail overlooked. His ability to prepare his team from all angles – theoretical, practical, and through video analysis – is unmatched. It was truly a privilege to work with such a dedicated and talented coach.”
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ROMAIN FOLZ JOINS FIFA’S HIGH PERFORMANCE DEPARTMENT
Folz is currently working with Arsene Wenger in FIFA’s High-Performance department. He began his DStv Premiership coaching career at age 31 with Marumo Gallants, making him the youngest coach in the league’s history. He resigned after only six games after mutually agreeing to part ways with the club, and then moved to AmaZulu for the rest of the season.
After a brief stint with African club Horoya, Folz joined FIFA. “I’m currently working with FIFA within the High Performance Department,” he explained. “I’m proud to be part of this organisation and working with Federations and National teams globally to develop football at the elite level.”