TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi confirms Bernard Parker to lead Rockets into new season

Parker, the former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana striker, was promoted from the club's DStv Diski Challenge setup following the departure of Adnan Beganovic and quickly helped stabilise a team that had been struggling for results.

The 40-year-old oversaw six matches across all competitions, guiding Galaxy through an unbeaten run in their final five league fixtures to secure their top-flight status. His stint also included a notable 3-2 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, a result that dented the Tshwane giants' title defence, while his only defeat came in the Nedbank Cup final against Durban City.

Speaking at Bafana Bafana's send-off ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sukazi said Parker had earned the opportunity to continue leading the Rockets.

"We have to follow reason and logic," Sukazi said. "Here we are with a young coach, a South African football legend, who has all the qualities and credentials. He has what it takes, he has proven himself and pulled us out of the doldrums.

"After we had lost nine out of 10 league games, he coached the remaining matches and hasn't lost in the league."

Sukazi pointed to the Rockets' victory over Sundowns as the clearest indication of Parker's coaching potential, dismissing suggestions that previous wins over the champions had been influenced by circumstances such as team selection or the dimensions of Solomon Mahlangu Stadium.

"There was talk about the field being small and that Teboho Mokoena and Ronwen Williams were not playing," Sukazi said. "I said, let's go to Mbombela Stadium on a big field, bring Teboho, bring Ronwen, and we still won.

"So it's not just a question of Parker winning. It took football acumen to devise a strategy and he has shown very good signs."

While acknowledging the pressures that come with a permanent head coaching role, Sukazi said Galaxy would continue supporting Parker's development as they build for the future.

"Would it not make perfect sense for Parker to remain in the coaching position as we develop him?" Sukazi said. "When the pressure picks up, we will have the opportunity to shield him if necessary, but this momentum has to continue at TS Galaxy."