League in search for new CEO

THE Premier Soccer League (PSL) is in search of a chief executive again, following the announcement yesterday at the league’s annual general meeting that Brand de Villiers is stepping down from the post.

PSL chairman Irvin Khoza also informed league members at the AGM in Boksburg that the insurance policy for the death of former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa had been paid out, with just details to be finalised before the family can receive the money.

Meyiwa was mysteriously gunned down in October last year in Vosloorus.

“The PSL has one policy for all the clubs, for injuries, untimely death and loss in service,” he said.

“All players and club officials in the PSL and NFD [National First Division] are covered by that policy.

“The Senzo Meyiwa insurance was paid out three or four days ago. It was important that we informed the board of governors today, and as I’m speaking to you the office is in the process of informing the Senzo Meyiwa family.

“It’s important to indicate up-front that the payment deals with the issues of what goes to the club and what goes to the beneficiaries. That will be spelt out in a proper press conference once the family members have been informed.”

De Villiers served for almost two-and-a-half years, from July 1 2013. He was the PSL’s third chief executive in four years, holding the post far longer than predecessors Zola Majavu (two months) and Stan Matthews (five months).

He said he had taken a post with Mutichoice Africa, working on strategy.

Khoza said national executive committee member and Golden Arrows chairman Mato Madlala had been seconded to assist in the process of finding a chief executive, and in the first week of next month “we will indicate if we will be head-hunting or advertising for the post”.

Other issues discussed at the meeting included PSL financials and a new hand book to be implemented in the 2016-17 season.

“The league is healthy. The financials suggest our programmes are on track,” Khoza said.

The PSL also agreed to hold a seminar dealing with issues including how 2010 World Cup stadiums can be better utilised.

De Villiers, a former director of rugby’s Bulls, said it had been an unbelievable honour and privilege to be part of the soccer industry.

He said: “It’s been an unbelievable journey and I can only thank the chairman and executive committee for the faith they showed in me.

“It’s the best sport any corporate sponsor can invest in, if you want to grow your business.”

The 30th anniversary of the soccer league, which broke away from the National Professional Soccer League in 1985, was celebrated.