Bernard Parker admits he’s not made a final decision to move into coaching next season with interest in his services as a player still around.
Parker, 38, has been offered a chance to form part of the DStv Diski Challenge coaching staff alongside Vuyo Mere next season, as first reported by iDiski Times.
Chairman Tim Sukazi has stated several times in the past, they see the value in the experience of the duo for the club and for the upcoming talent because of their dedication, and accolades, knowledge and extreme professionalism.
But there have been murmurs of offers surrounding the former Bafana Bafana star being offered a playing role elsewhere in the Premier Soccer League, which he could not confirm nor deny.
“I’ve sat down with my family, and right now it’s up to me to make the right decision. There’s been talks, there’s been interest, but it’s just for me to make sure I make that right decision for my family,” he told iDiski Times about his next career move.
“I made sure that I equip myself as much as I can, overall, I have sports management, sports marketing, sports nutrition, personal training, exercise science qualifications, life coaching, sports psychology, it can go on and on.
“I have my CAF C coaching badges, I just make sure I try to accumulate knowledge myself as much as I can.
“I go year by year [with my career], last year I was in the same position as I am now, also speculation, lots of talk and I went on for another year, so I find myself in the same situation.
“I’m thankful and grateful that the Chairman really appreciates us and it’s a great opportunity, I just need to sit down with my family and make sure I make the best decision for them.”
Parker stated that he’s aiming to still continue his education in coaching, despite making massive inroads in preparation for life after football already. While he’s notably been active off the field, where he’s now been named an ambassador of Clinix Health Group.
“I do want to equip myself more, I missed out on the B License that took place because it was only for coaches who are currently coaching, so when the next B License course comes up, I will take it in that direction, for now, and we’ll see as times go on,” he continued.
“I don’t want to take on too many things, I don’t want to get too busy, family is my number one priority.”
Parker has scored three goals with four assists in 36 games for the Rockets since joining the club after over a decade at Kaizer Chiefs.
