Stellenbosch Football Club will compete in the 2024 Sasol Women’s League.
This after the local club purchased the franchise of Stellenbosch University (SU). As part of the agreement the two entities have formed a unique collaboration aimed at advancing the development of women’s football in Stellenbosch and the broader Cape Winelands.
“Core to our club’s vision is to build a sustainable football pathway for the region and to be a catalyst for social upliftment,” explained Rob Benadie, CEO of Stellenbosch FC.
“We want to see the females in our catchment area provided with the same opportunities as the males to play and compete at the highest levels of football in South Africa. The decision to establish a women’s team alongside SU is the latest step towards accomplishing that vision, and is one that we are excited to see come to fruition.”
The club extended its gratitude to SU for its invaluable role in the partnership, as well as their shared belief in the transformative power of sport and in the pursuit of sporting excellence.
By joining forces, Stellenbosch FC hopes to create an environment where the City of Oaks becomes a destination town for women footballers in South Africa and a platform where they can thrive both on and off the field.
Ilhaam Groenewald, chief director of Maties Sport, confirmed the university’s commitment to empowering women through sport. “The partnership with Stellenbosch FC marks a pivotal moment in advancing women’s football, with a pipeline that combines education and sport,” she related.
“Together, we are committed to building a legacy where every player identified to join the club, every goal scored, and every moment experienced becomes a step forward in creating a more inclusive and equitable world for women and girls in football.”
Head coach Nathan Peskin led the Stellenbosch FC women’s team into their first-ever fixture last weekend, when they played to a goalless draw with Badgers FC in the opening match of Stream B in the 2024 Sasol League season. The team recired their first victory in their first home match, claiming a 3-0 victory over Azzurro Academy at Lentelus Sports Ground.
For more information and updates on the Stellenbosch FC women’s team and other club news, visit www.stellenboschfc.com.
