FUFA has officially appointed Sheryl Botes, a South African, as the new head coach for the Uganda Women’s National Football team, Crested Cranes.

The announcement of her appointment took place at FUFA house in Mengo on Wednesday, where FUFA President Moses Magogo unveiled her as the new coach.

Botes boasts an impressive coaching background, having previously led the South African U-20 Women’s National Team (Basetsana) and holding certifications such as CAF A, SAFA Pro, and serving as a CAF Instructor among others.

“I want to thank Botes for having been the most successful candidate among the many who applied for the job, we welcome you to Uganda,” Magogo said.

“And I want to assure you that the Federation will give you maximum support that you need to achieve the goals of the Federation and also your individual goals.”

Prior to this role, Botes also served as the Head Coach of the SAFA Girls Soccer Academy situated at the High Performance Centre (HPC) in Pretoria.

Taking over from interim coach Charles Ayiekho, Botes will be supported by two South African professionals in her backroom staff (Goalkeeping and a Sports Scientist), with plans to incorporate local coaches after her consultation process.

FUFA received 28 applicants, five Ugandans including one Female, for a then vacant position before zeroing down on Botes who has been given a three-year contract.

Magogo added: “It has been a long process, we were slow, but we wanted to be sure that we appoint the right person.”

“The coaches who held the positions on interim were not on evaluation.”

In addition to coaching the Crested Cranes, Magogo confirmed that Botes will oversee all other Youth Women National Teams, expanding her responsibilities within Ugandan women’s football.