‘BIRDS’ PLAYERS BACK AT TRAINING

MBABANE – They are flying again!

Mbabane Swallows have resumed training after a player strike over two months of unpaid salaries. The red and white giants from the capital last trained before the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) break. Under Coach Caleb Ngwenya, the team were preparing for the highly-anticipated derby against Mbabane Highlanders, held at the Mavuso Sports Centre on November 10, 2024, where Swallows won 2-0. Following the derby, players filed a complaint with the Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration Commission (CMAC), citing non-payment.

This prompted Acting President Absalom ‘Mvana’ Ngwenya to declare unworkable conditions, leading the management committee, chaired by Welile Mabuza, to return management of the team to Princess Lungile. A source revealed that the team held its first training session after nearly a month of inactivity, taking place at the Malkerns Country Club Sports Ground.
“The players are back at training, though the turnout was disappointing,” the source commented. Siza ‘King Pele’ Dlamini, the fitness coach, confirmed the players were training in preparation for their upcoming match against Nsingizini Hotspurs, scheduled for Sunday, at the Mavuso Sports Centre. Dlamini expressed concern about the players’ fitness levels, noting that they were not up to the standards typically associated with the ‘Birds’. Knowledge Ngwenya, the Public Relations Officer for Swallows, echoed Dlamini’s sentiments, indicating that while training had resumed, attendance was lacking.

Ashamed

“I am ashamed to mention the number of players who attended. We hope to see an improvement today,” Knowledge stated. When asked about player morale following the prolonged absence, Ngwenya acknowledged their ongoing demands for payment. “We are seeking assistance, as money is the only way to make them happy,” he added.  One player, speaking anonymously, confirmed they had trained and were eagerly awaiting their salaries. The player expressed cautious optimism regarding the situation. “As players, we have faced a tough few months with unpaid salaries, causing anxiety in our personal and professional lives.

“We do our best to train and perform despite these challenges, but the uncertainty regarding our payments has taken a toll on our morale. We are saddened by our team’s plight, especially since families depend on our wages,” the player stated. Meanwhile, players from Mbabane Highlanders were unable to train yesterday due to rain, according to a source close to the ‘Bull’s kraal’.

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