"I am very happy to be the chosen one," reacts Philani Ndlovu after he was announced as the Champion coach on Monday evening. "I am excited and wish to thank the Almighty for this dream to come true."

The 34-year-old Champion coach will enjoy the time of his life this week with an opportunity to meet and greet his favourite team, the Amakhosi.

Ndlovu will mingle with the squad and shout instructions from the bench alongside head coach Steve Komphela during the mouth-watering Carling Black Label Champions Cup match on Saturday.

"It all began with voting for my first Kaizer Chiefs starting line-up after buying Black Label Beer (not for sale to Under-18s)," describes the ardent Kwanyuswa-born Chiefs supporter. "I used the underline code via the CBL-website and answered the weekly coach questions. From there I was selected as a one-week finalist."

Philani competed with the other 17 weekly finalists on Saturday, 23 July. The competition, which involved a series of tests and was judged by legends from both Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, took place at the SAB Learning Centre. "I went all the way to the top 4 after intense exercises and testing. I am glad to be announced tonight as the Champion coach."

The announcement was made live by SABC's SoccerZone. An energetic Ndlovu is a Kibler Park (South of Johannesburg) resident and works at Carnival City Casino.

"I am involved in coaching the Under-15s of the Kibler Park soccer team," enthuses Ndlovu. "I grew up in a family of Amakhosi supporters. I also fell in love with Chiefs because of the brand and the style of football they play."

Ndlovu will feature live on SABC's Sports@10 on Wednesday night, where he will be announcing the starting line-up as selected by the multitudes of the voting supporters.

"This is an honour," continues Ndlovu. "Chiefs has instilled a winning culture in the society which makes one a proud supporter. I can't wait to meet my team."

Ndlovu concludes by revealing his plans for Saturday’s match: "I want to motivate my players to win this cup. I want to lift this cup for our supporters."

The much anticipated sold out Black Label Champions Cup will be played at FNB Stadium this Saturday, 30 July. Kick-off is at 15:00.

"Champions Drink responsibly!"