In the world of football, loyalty and support often run deep.
It’s fascinating to hear about the unexpected allegiances some coaches hold, especially when they’ve worked for rival teams.
Recently, former Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson opened up about his unexpected past as a supporter of Orlando Pirates, which has raised eyebrows among fans.
A Journey Back to Orlando Stadium
Cavin Johnson, who grew up in Westbury, Johannesburg, shared his surprising allegiance during an interview with Junior Khanye on Junior Khanye Khohlwa.
He reminisced about his childhood, explaining how he always found ways to make his way to Orlando Stadium.
“As youngsters, we could really connect with a lot of the Pirates players, including legends like Jomo Sono,” he recalled.
For Johnson, attending matches was not just about supporting the team; it was a way to bond with friends and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that surrounded the games.
He fondly remembered how their youthful excitement led them to make up stories to sneak past the police if they were ever questioned about their presence at the stadium.
The Coaching Rollercoaster
Johnson’s revelation comes on the heels of his recent departure from Kaizer Chiefs after a challenging season.
His time with Amakhosi was marked by struggles, culminating in his firing due to a string of disappointing results.
While some Chiefs fans might see his admission as a slight against their club, it’s essential to remember that football often has layers of complexity.
Football’s Mixed Allegiances
Interestingly, Johnson’s story isn’t unique in the football world. Take Pitso Mosimane, for example.
He grew up as a Chiefs supporter yet went on to coach SuperSport United and Mamelodi Sundowns.
Similarly, many legendary players, like Helman Mkhalele and Jerry Sikhosana, had their roots in Chiefs fandom before making their mark at Pirates.
Even Benni McCarthy, now a prominent coach, started as a Chiefs supporter but played for Pirates before coaching Cape Town City and AmaZulu.
Johnson’s Love for the Game
Reflecting on his youthful fandom, Johnson candidly stated, “This is going to kill the people.
Locally, I have always been a Pirates fan. It’s the people’s team.”
He described how the diverse mix of talent in the Pirates squad during his teenage years made the team appealing to young fans like him.
With a glimmer of nostalgia, he noted that “Pirates always had a mixture of players,” making every match an exciting experience.
As Johnson continues his coaching journey, his love for the game remains evident, proving that in football, support can be as complicated as the game itself.