In recent times the likes of Janine van Wyk, Linda Mothlalo, Thembi Kgatlana, Leandra Smeda, Rhoda Mulaudzi and Refiloe Jane have gone overseas, giving hope to many other ladies who dream of playing their football in professional leagues.
A result of having players abroad was seen during the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations in Ghana recently, where Banyana managed to qualify for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, set to be played in France next year.
At the tournament, Kgatlana – a Houston Dash attacking midfielder – was the star player and showed just how much she has improved since making a move to the US. She is not the only one shining in the US; Mothlalo has also made her mark there and is set for bigger things in her career.
Mulaudzi has settled in quite well at Canberra United in Australia and is proving to be their go-to option for goals. Jane is also enjoying her football in Australia at Canberra, which can only benefit Banyana going forward.
“I think it’s something that we’ve lacked, because most of the other countries have had players playing in countries like USA, France and so on. So I think it’s going to benefit the team and the coach because it’s very difficult to have players who are not playing at a professional level. When they come into camp, you have a lot of work to do as a coach. I think having more players playing overseas will help the coach and the country so much.”