Lehlohonolo Seema
By Sello Masilo
Lehlohonolo Seema from Lesotho has been named the new head coach of Siwelele FC, with experienced goalkeeper coach Andre Arendse stepping in as his assistant.  This announcement comes as the club gears up for its first season in the Betway Premiership, bringing back echoes of the beloved Bloemfontein Celtic, known fondly as Siwelele.  Seema, a familiar face in South African football, brings a wealth of experience from his playing and coaching days, promising to build a strong team rooted in hard work and community spirit. 
The deal was sealed after weeks of talks, with Seema edging out other candidates like former Kaizer Chiefs boss Cavin Johnson.  At 44 years old, Seema is no stranger to pressure, having led teams through tough seasons and cup runs.  His appointment marks a homecoming of sorts, as he once played for and coached Bloemfontein Celtic, the club whose legacy Siwelele FC aims to carry forward.  Fans have taken to social media to share their joy, seeing this as a fresh start for football in the Free State. 
Seema’s Journey: From Player to Proven Coach
Lehlohonolo Seema’s story in football is one of grit and growth.  Born on 9 June 1980 in Lesotho, he started as a tough defender and midfielder, playing for clubs like Orlando Pirates and Bloemfontein Celtic in South Africa.  He earned caps for the Lesotho national team, showing his skill on the international stage.  After hanging up his boots, Seema jumped into coaching, starting as an assistant at Bloemfontein Celtic in 2015 before taking the top job in 2017. 
His coaching career has seen ups and downs, but always with a focus on steady results. At Chippa United, he signed a three-year deal in 2020, aiming to stabilise the team known for quick coach changes. He later moved to Golden Arrows, where his tactics helped the side punch above their weight. Most recently, at Sekhukhune United, Seema guided the team to a top-four finish in the league and a spot in the Nedbank Cup final during the 2024/25 season. Though he parted ways with Sekhukhune after that campaign, his track record made him a top pick for Siwelele FC.
Seema has also coached in Lesotho, taking charge of Bantu FC as senior coach, showing his ties to his home country. His style is all about discipline, smart defending, and quick counters – skills that could help Siwelele FC hold their own in the tough Betway Premiership. “A true legend returns to lead the Green & White into a bold new era,” the club said in their official statement, highlighting Seema’s deep connection to the Siwelele spirit.
Andre Arendse: The Trusted Assistant Bringing Experience
Joining Seema is Andre Arendse, a former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper with a solid coaching background. Arendse, who played for clubs like Fulham in England and Orlando Pirates, has coached keepers at teams like Bidvest Wits and SuperSport United. He returns to a familiar role, having assisted at Bloemfontein Celtic in the past. Recently, Arendse led Siwelele FC in a friendly match while talks with Seema wrapped up.
His know-how in building strong defences will pair well with Seema’s plans. Together, they aim to create a team that honours the passion of Free State fans, who have missed top-flight football since Bloemfontein Celtic was sold in 2021. The duo’s experience could be key in avoiding the pitfalls new clubs often face, like poor starts or player unrest.
Siwelele FC: Reviving a Football Legacy in the Free State
Siwelele FC steps into the spotlight as a new club, but one with deep roots in Bloemfontein Celtic’s history. Formed to fill the gap left when Celtic was bought by Royal AM and moved away, Siwelele FC bought a spot in the Betway Premiership to bring back local pride. The name “Siwelele” – meaning “we are boiling” in Sesotho – captures the fiery support that once filled Kaizer Sebothelo Stadium.
The club has been busy building, signing players and staff to compete in the 2025/26 season. They missed out on big names like Rulani Mokwena and Steven Pienaar, who went elsewhere, but Seema’s appointment feels like a perfect fit. Fans remember Seema’s time at Celtic, where he helped the team avoid relegation and push for cups. This link adds emotional weight, making the hire more than just a job – it’s a reunion.
What This Means for the Betway Premiership
The Betway Premiership gets a boost with Siwelele FC’s entry, adding rivalry and fresh stories. Seema’s task is clear: build a squad that can survive the league’s demands, from long travels to fierce derbies. With Arendse by his side, expect a focus on solid goalkeeping and team unity. The club has already played friendlies to test the waters, showing their eagerness to hit the ground running.
Challenges lie ahead, like blending new players and dealing with expectations from loyal fans. But Seema’s record at underdog teams suggests he thrives in such spots. As the season nears, all eyes will be on how Siwelele FC shapes up under this new leadership.
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