Botes joined from Bidvest Wits on a free transfer, returning to the club where he made over 100 appearances between 2007 and 2014.
“It’s been great the week and half that I have been back,” the 37-year-old told his club’s website. “I am looking forward to a new season. The welcome was great. There are guys who are still here from the time when I was here the likes of Vuyo Mere, Solomon Mathe and Sibusiso Mosomi.
“The same team spirit and culture are still here. It feels like I never been away.”
Botes admits he may take up more of a mentoring role in his second spell at Dikwena.
“My role is much more than just playing,” the experienced forward said. “It’s guiding youngsters. There are a lot of talented youngsters at the club this time around. As senior players we’ve got a big job to try and guide them in making Stars competitive.
“Last time when I was here, there were a lot of experienced players than youngsters. This time around there is a lot of youngsters. There’s a lot of excitement. We just need to get the right combinations together. I think this is the step in the right direction.
“The club has promoted eight youngsters. That says a lot about the team. There are not a lot of teams in the PSL that can boast and say we have promoted youngsters and giving them a chance. Johnson is a coach known for giving youngsters to opportunity to play without pressure.”
Botes is confident Dikwena can do even better than their third-place finish last season.
“Stars is an ambitious club and I am here to do my small contribution,” he added. “I am looking forward to a great season. Whenever I get a chance to play, I will definitely be putting my best foot forward. We have to improve from last season. We are taking it one step at a time starting with the MTN8.”
Stars face Chippa United in their MTN8 quarter-final showdown next month.
