Former AmaZulu and Orlando Pirates defender Wayde Jooste has expressed his delight at making a return to the Betway Premiership after debuting in Stellenbosch’s win over Sekhukhune United on Tuesday.
It was a good night for Stellies, as Gavin Hunt picked up an important win in his first game in charge, with another debutant, Tshegofatso Mabasa, scoring the only goal of the game.
The 34-year-old Jooste was emotional at making his return after being club-less for several months after his exit from Usuthu.
Jooste had been inactive since representing the country at the CHAN finals in Uganda, signing with Stellenbosch towards the end of 2025.
“It was an amazing feeling being back on the pitch,” Jooste told the club’s media department.
“I had been without a team for a while and was training on my own daily for months, so for me to have gotten through that to make my debut for Stellenbosch is all glory to God.
“It was a bit emotional after those challenges, but I’m so happy for the team and the Club that we were able to pick up the win, because we know we’re not where we are supposed to be and that this is a step in the right direction.
“It’s the type of performance and result that gives us inspiration for the second half of the season, and we could feel that in the dressing room after the game.
“Playing away in this league isn’t easy, and we were up against a team that is up there fighting for the title, so beating them in their own backyard is something that should give us a lot of confidence moving forward.
“Now it’s up to us to focus on the next game and keep improving, and then hopefully we will reap the rewards of the hard work we’re putting in.”