SA govt shows intentions to establish professional women’s league
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has shown intentions to establish a professional women’s league in South Africa together with relevant stakeholders.
This comes after the participation of Banyana Banyana at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand.
Desiree Ellis‘ charges suffered a 2-0 defeat to the Netherlands in the tournament’s round 16 at Sydney Football Stadium on Sunday.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa expressed his delight with Banyana’s performance at the prestigious tournament.
Banyana became the first ever South African national football team to reach the knockout phase of the World Cup, in both women and men.
Minister insists that despite South Africa’s loss against the Dutch side, who are ranked ninth in the FIFA World Rankings, Banyana put on a good show with their stellar displays at the competition.
As a result, Banyana’s performance has influenced the government to establish a professional women’s league in the country.
Currently, South Africa has the Hollywoodbets Super League which is a semi-professional women’s league run by SAFA.
GOVERNMENT’S INTENTIONS TO FORM WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE
“Banyana Banyana’s efforts in the FIFA Women’s World Cup mean so much for the country. Also, emphasise once again the importance of supporting women’s sport and sports development at the grassroots level,” said Kodwa.
“Our immediate task in working with relevant stakeholders is the establishment of a professional women’s league.
“It is my expectation that Banyana Banyana’s success will not be in vain.”
BANYANA BANYANA PUT ON A GOOD FIGHT
Minister Kodwa continued: “Banyana Banyana fought bravely and made history in the World Cup.
“The team inspired and made South Africa proud with their performances in the tournament.
“By going toe to toe with the world’s best teams, Banyana Banyana showed that they belong on the world’s top football stage.
“This is a special team who are African champions and have continuously inspired on and off the field.”
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