SAFA introduces medical staff

Johannesburg - The South African Football Association has made moves to strengthen all national teams' medical staff by including a biokineticist and a masseur.

South Africa's national women's team, Banyana Banyana, have already implemented, and benefited from, the inclusion of the new staff members, with biokinetic specialist Zingisani Gxolo revealing the positives to come from employing such measures.

"As an example, by having a biokinetics specialist as part of the Under 17 national teams, incorrect running or jumping techniques will be picked up much earlier and the rectifying thereof will put less pressure on the human body," said Gxolo.

"This will result in a reduced number of injuries later on in the careers of the players."

Gxolo is currently helping Yola Jafta (knee) and Mamello Makhabane (groin) to overcome their respective injuries, adding: "The Banyana Banyana players have been able to spend much time in national camps this year, thanks to SAFA and Sasol (sponsor), and this has created the platform for me to work extensively with the injured players.

"I am delighted to be a part of this set up. The players are a pleasure to work with and there is a really good spirit among them and the technical staff.

"Playing at the Olympics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many players, and I hope I can make a solid contribution to give Banyana Banyana every chance of achieving their dream and doing South Africa proud in London."