The world is currently witnessing the rise of female soccer coaches. At the 2019 Women’s World Cup, 15 of the 24 nations were being coached by men. The remaining nine were managed by women. These numbers are poised to increase thanks to the global recognition of women in the game of football.
The sight of Coach Agnes ‘Madala’ Nkosi on the touchline during the inaugural edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League last year is one of many examples of how Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club is harnessing the potential of women in the game across all fronts.
Following in the footsteps of Madala, the likes of Andisiwe Mgcoyi and Rhoda Mulaudzi have begun the process of forging their managerial paths. Andisiwe’s love for coaching stemmed from her footballing experience while playing overseas.
“My love for football goes beyond just playing the game to the best of my ability. I love all facets of the game and being a coach excites me. While I was abroad, I had the privilege of interacting with several people who broadened my holistic understanding of the game. My journey thus far as a coach has been an interesting one because it has opened my eyes to several ideas about what goes on before, during and after the game.
Mgcoyi is one of the most experienced footballers in the Banyana Ba Style camp. In the years that she spent abroad, Mgcoyi played for different European sides, winning several league titles and competed in three UEFA Women’s Champions League editions.
The 34-year-old goal poacher was full of praise for the ever-growing state of women’s football in South Africa and on the world stage.
“I am very happy with the way the world is paying attention to women in the game of football. In South Africa, the winning mentality of Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club has motivated young girls to show interest in the game. After our treble-conquering efforts last season, several young ladies expressed their footballing desires. I received several direct messages from different young ladies who were keen to play the game,” Mgcoyi stated.
Andisiwe regularly hosts tournaments for girls across the Under-7, Under-15 and Under-17 levels. The Sundowns striker is the head coach of the female Under-15 set-up and is assisted by fellow Sundowns striker Rhoda Mulaudzi. Mgcoyi also serves as an assistant coach to Coach Agnes who takes charge of the women’s under-20 team.
The Sundowns striker stated her vision for her side, “I always feel so emotional when I see youngsters knocking the ball around with confidence. I see myself in them and it excites me to train them. I hope that they keep their heads down and learn more about the game. I hope they eventually exceed my achievements because they are very talented and I am working hard to help them achieve their potential,” Andisiwe concluded.
Last season, Andisiwe Mgcoyi ended the Hollywoodbets Super League season with 27 league goals to earn a share of the golden boot. This season, she is joint-top of the scorers log with nine strikes to her name.
Kudos to Andisiwe Mgcoyi!
