Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Reneilwe Letsholonyane has been nominated for the 2025/26 Botswana Premier League Coach of the Season award following an impressive debut season with Matebele FC.
Letsholonyane has been shortlisted alongside former Cape Town Spurs technical director Sean Connor and Nico United’s Zambian mentor Reuben Njavera after guiding Matebele FC to safety in the Botswana top flight.
The nomination marks a major milestone in the former midfielder’s transition into coaching after taking charge of the Botswana side at the start of the season.
WHAT RENEILWE LETSHOLONYANE SAID ABOUT HIS FIRST SEASON
Speaking to FARPost recently, Letsholonyane expressed pride in what the club has achieved during a challenging campaign.
“My first season is about to end now, and we are safe,” Letsholonyane told FARPost.
“I think that’s one of the mandates when I came in, to do better and make sure we are not relegated. I think one has been achieved. We can definitely say we are safe.”
The 42-year-old admitted the season had tested him but believes the experience has accelerated his growth as a coach.
“I’m very, very happy and excited with the step that I’ve taken in my career,” he said.
“Not an easy one. Not an easy season. But through it all, with the assistance of my assistant coaches, the commitment of the players and the support from the technical director, chairman and management, who believed in me even when things were difficult, I’m overall very happy and excited.”
Letsholonyane’s impact in Botswana has not gone unnoticed, with many praising the calm leadership and professionalism he brought to Matebele FC during a difficult period.
Meanwhile, Sean Connor’s nomination follows another competitive season in Botswana football after the experienced Northern Irish coach guided Gaborone United to the league title.
Njavera has also earned recognition after leading Nico United to an impressive campaign that exceeded expectations.
For Letsholonyane, the nomination represents growing recognition of his coaching potential as he continues to build a new chapter in football beyond his decorated playing career.