BT Academy coaches resign after Spain ordeal: “We were betrayed”

THE COACHING team that stood by BT Academy players during a nightmare return from Spain has now officially cut ties with the academy, saying they cannot work under a leadership they no longer trust.

This follows a disastrous end to what should have been a dream trip for 38 young players and staff who travelled to Spain for the Donosti Cup 2025. The group, made up of Under-14, Under-19 and girls teams, had paid R50,000 each for an all-inclusive tour. But when it was time to fly home, they discovered that no return flights had been booked.

Nicola Daniels from the Cape Times reported on IOL that in a strongly worded joint statement, the four coaches, hailed by many South Africans for standing by the stranded players, announced their resignations – and didn’t hold back in addressing BT Academy founder Brandon Timmy directly.

“To Brandon Timmy: we are nothing like you. You tried to break us. You failed to pay us. You abandoned us. But in the end, all you did was bring us closer together...”

The coaches said their integrity and unity carried them through the crisis and won the hearts of the nation – “not through deception or silence, but through our courage to do what you didn't have the backbone to do – stand up, speak out, and protect the children and families you left behind.”

They also expressed gratitude to the public, saying it was not the academy, but ordinary people – South Africans and strangers from around the world – who came to their rescue.

“From those who gave despite having little, to those who sent messages of hope ... you carried us when we were at our lowest ... This is not the end.”

Soccer coach Keeno Damons, with BT Academy for three years, confirmed that the coaches had all submitted formal resignation letters.

“You can’t work for someone you can’t trust ... I have so many questions. What was going through his mind when he did this? It’s heartbreaking. I feel betrayed.”

A family member of one of the coaches, who was allegedly fired while in Portugal for speaking out, said he is still owed over R70,000. She recounted early signs of trouble when the group landed in Spain with no transport arranged.

“Jesse found transport... he paid R70,000 and BT paid R40,000.”

She added that the coaches had also covered food expenses for the group but had yet to be reimbursed.

“I’m ecstatic that he is back, these past few days felt like months. It still feels so unreal.”