Richards Bay hand Ronnie Gabriel first Betway Premiership head coach role

The Natal Rich Boyz confirmed on Friday that Gabriel will lead the team on his own after the club opted to end its co-coaching structure. He replaces the partnership he shared with Papi Zothwane last season following Zothwane's departure.

Gabriel steps into the role after spending several years as one of the club's trusted assistants. His appointment marks the first time he will serve as a sole head coach in the Betway Premiership.

"Richards Bay have appointed Ronnie Gabriel as the club's new head coach for next season with an option to renew. Gabriel will be assisted by Siboniso Gumede," the club said in a statement.

"The Natal Rich Boyz have operated with co-coaches over the past two seasons, but Gabriel has now been entrusted with sole responsibility for leading the team. It marks Gabriel's first appointment as a head coach in the Betway Premiership."

Gabriel is one of the longest-serving members of the Richards Bay technical team, having worked under several coaches, including Vasili Manousakis, Kaitano Tembo, Brandon Truter and Pitso Dladla. His wealth of experience within the club is expected to provide continuity as Richards Bay prepare for the new campaign.

Although this will be his first opportunity to lead a Premiership side on his own, Gabriel is no stranger to the responsibilities of a head coach.

He previously managed Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit Uthongathi FC between 2017 and 2018 before returning to Richards Bay as part of the technical staff.

Richards Bay will now hope Gabriel can build on the foundations laid in recent seasons as they target a stronger showing in the upcoming Betway Premiership campaign.