Behind-The-Scenes With Qedi Dlamini December 29, 2009 We interview the man responsible for your safety at AmaZulu home games and get to find out just more about Head of Security at AmaZulu and Safety Security Planning Officer for the FIFA LOC for the World Cup, Qedi Dlamini.

When did you get involved in football?

I got involved in football at the young age. I was about 6 years when I first went to the stadium. My late father took me to a lot of AmaZulu games at that time as he was also a staunch Usuthu supporter.

Tell us about your relationship with AmaZulu?

I started supporting AmaZulu at an early age. As I grew up I met a lot of people who are passionate about the club. As you know the club had so many problems that also included some battles over ownership. I got more involved in those battles as well, but my relationship with the club now is more professional, although I still maintain my passion - I love this club more than any other thing.

Where did you work before you got involved in soccer?

I worked as a policeman from 1987. That is when one of staunch AmaZulu supporters asked me to join the security department of the club. I went to a high position and currently I am the club safety officer. Now I am also working for the Local organizing committee as the Venue Security Officer for the Moses Mabhida Stadium. My duties include planning for security for the World Cup.

What is your role in the upcoming 2010 World Cup? Who will you be working with when the tournament begins?

As I have said I am the venue security officer. I am responsible of ensuring that the venue is safe and secure and that all the people that come to the games are safe. Also to ensure that the property belonging to FIFA and it’s partners are well looked after.

Which time in history would you say was your best times with the team?

There are two times that were a highlight for me .Winning the Coca Cola Cup in 1992 and winning the play-off two seasons ago to stay in the PSL were among the best times. Obviously there are a lot other moments but these two stay in my heart.

Who do you best respect in SA football administration within the PSL?

I respect the current management at AmaZulu. They are trying at all costs to run the club professionally. For me this is the best management ever to run the club.

Describe for us in detail what goes on a normal match day, home and away?

The preparation for the home match starts a week early. There is a security meeting where all role players (police, medical, traffic, Security Company and all other important role players) meet and create a day plan for the coming game.

This meeting is important for planning. On match days I do the deployment and ensure that all key areas are safe. I also have to prepare parking for match officials and clubs and basically communicate with all role players during and after the game.

When on away games I am responsible for the safety of the players and officials. I look after the players at the camp. I arrive early at the stadium and inspect the facility and where our bus and team officials will park. I guard the team’s dressing room all the time and ensure the safe departure after game.

That was Part I of our interview with Qedi…we hope it gave you more insight into the behind-the-scenes work that goes on at the club….Look out for Part II in the next few days.

* Qedi was chatting to AmaZulufc.net's Nhlanhla Brilliant Mkhathini