In a significant move for Namibian football, former Ramblers, Orlando Pirates and Black Africa coach Woody Jacobs has been appointed as the head coach of Tigers FC on a one-year contract, with an option for renewal.
His return to the Namibian football scene follows a stint in Botswana, where he coached Matebele Football Club until April this year – and thereafter, Francistown-based Tafic C.
Reflecting on his time in Botswana, he expressed gratitude for the experience, describing it as a pivotal period of growth personally and professionally.
“I am glad to be back from Botswana. It was a beautiful experience, and I think I have grown a lot as a man. Now, I want to bring back what I’ve learned and apply it here,” he said.
As the new season approaches, Jacobs is eager to meet the Tigers FC players, and begin implementing his vision for the team.
When asked about his coaching philosophy and the areas he plans to focus on, he noted that he had yet to meet the players for the first time.
He added: “Obviously, Tigers is a big brand, and we would like to restore the club to its rightful place in Namibian football”.
He is determined to lead the team back to the top, following their fourth-place finish in the 2023/2024 season, where they earned 43 points from 30 matches.
He plans to conduct a thorough assessment of the current squad, identifying strengths and areas in need of improvement.
“We will make a thorough assessment of the old players, and see where the needs are,” he noted, signalling his commitment to refining the team’s performance.
He will be supported by a well-rounded technical team, including assistant coach Jeremy Zimmer, technical director Ali Khan, goalkeeper coach Heriberth Kapeng, team manager Heikki Amashisha and medic Richard Swartz. Looking ahead to the season, he is optimistic about Tigers FC’s prospects.
“I think it’s going to be a very interesting and competitive season,” he remarked.
He said he has confidence in the team’s potential to make a significant impact in Namibian football under his leadership.
With his return to Namibian football, he is poised to bring new energy and strategic insight to Tigers FC, aiming to guide the club to greater heights in the upcoming season.
The season is set to commence the first week of September.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na