Former Baroka FC assistant coach Amukelani “JayJay ” Hlongwani
Refilwe Sebola
Amukelani “JayJay” Hlongwani, the former assistant coach of Baroka FC, has made a surprising move to National First Division rivals Casric Stars, where he will also serve as assistant coach.
This switch has raised eyebrows in Limpopo’s football community, as Baroka was the club that gave Hlongwani his significant break in professional football. He was scouted from the ABC Motsepe League side Mpheni Defenders, where his coaching abilities caught the attention of Baroka. Known for their talent-spotting reputation, Baroka developed Hlongwani into a tactician capable of competing in the demanding NFD.
During his tenure at Baroka, Hlongwani demonstrated his value on multiple occasions. He not only served as assistant coach but also stepped in as interim coach twice, impressing everyone by winning matches and securing crucial points. He was even entrusted to lead the team against giants like Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup, demonstrating the faith the club had in him.
Despite this, Hlongwani’s abrupt departure has left many supporters and football analysts speculating. The club has not disclosed the official reasons for his exit, but rumors suggest that the Elim-born coach is pursuing new challenges and opportunities elsewhere.
Hlongwani, who earned his nickname “JayJay” during his playing days at Winnerspark due to his flamboyant style reminiscent of Nigerian legend Jay-Jay Okocha, now shifts his focus to Casric Stars. The Mpumalanga-based team is regarded as one of the strongest in the NFD, having reached the PSL promotion playoffs last season but narrowly missing out on top-flight status.
His arrival at Casric Stars is expected to add tactical depth and experience to an already ambitious team. With JayJay on the bench, Casric Stars is determined to push harder for promotion this season, making them a team to watch in the NFD campaign.