Sihle N Sonto
After acquiring the Bay Tigers FC franchise, Saints FC are ready to embark on a new chapter in the NMB Regional League, carrying with them a proud history and a bold vision for the future. Chairman Gregory Kops shared insight into the club’s rebirth, ambitions, and the spirit behind the name Saints FC ahead of their opening league fixture this Saturday against newly promoted Callies FC.
Origins of the Name and the Vision Behind Saints FC
“The club originated and was established in 1977 out of St Thomas High School, a Catholic school that welcomed all denominations, hence the name Saints FC,” Kops explained. “It was founded by our Physical Education teacher, Mr Alwyn Leo, and a group of pupils in 1976 before affiliating to the Eastern Soccer Board in 1977.” Kops added that purchasing Bay Tigers FC had two main goals: fast-tracking youth development and creating a structured, well-supported pathway for young players to enter the professional arena.
Smooth Transition from Bay Tigers to Saints FC
“The relationship between myself and the previous owner of Bay Tigers was already strong. We’ve known each other from our Castle League days. That made the transition process smooth,” Kops said. “We held trials, integrated some Saints players, and ended up with a good mix of young, talented players who make up our current squad.”
Strong Nedbank Cup Showing Sets Positive Tone
Saints FC impressed during the Nedbank Cup Regional Qualifiers, reaching the final before narrowly losing 1–0 to Major Chiefs FC. “In football, many coaches struggle to get new players to gel, but we’re grateful that we have our own facility, which helps with every aspect of the game,” Kops explained. “The squad has been together for just four weeks, with three friendly matches, yet they’ve already shown great promise. Many of our coaches are ex-professionals. They’re focused, strict, and disciplined.” He added, “Reaching the final was a good experience for our young players and created great excitement among the upcoming generation. We’re on a new trajectory, building a well-structured, well-resourced football academy to develop and create opportunities for local talent.”
Learning and Growing from Defeat
Despite the narrow loss, Kops remains positive. “We were impressed with most of the players’ performances. Congratulations to Major Chiefs on their win, but we’ll definitely bounce back. The tournament was very well organised, and we appreciate the efforts of the LOC, officials, and media who made it possible.”
Looking Ahead: The League Campaign Begins
Saints FC kick off their Regional League campaign this Saturday against Callies FC, a fixture Kops describes as “a derby with plenty of pride at stake.” “It’s always important to start the season on a high. Every game will be tough, but we’ll give it our best shot. It’s about learning and competing with honour. That’s our club slogan: ‘Play with Honour’.”
Ambitions for the Season
While the club is focused on long-term development, ambition runs high. “We’ll definitely be challenging for the league, that’s our priority. If we fall short, we aim to finish in the top four.”
Buzzing Ahead of Kick-Off
Training sessions have been lively since the Nedbank Cup weekend. “Full house at training, the boys are buzzing and very enthusiastic. All we wish is for supporters to come out in numbers and be our 12th man.” Saints FC will be looking to mark their return to competitive league football with a statement performance this weekend, one that honours their proud legacy and signals the start of a new era for the club and its community.
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