Today, February 1, 2023 is recognized as the National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD), a day to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, recognize the influence of sports participation for women and girls, and honor the progress and continuing struggle for equality for women in sports.
To mark this day, Mamelodi Sundowns graced the Central Sport Grounds in Mamelodi to present close to 100 football boots and 27 soccer balls to young girls from the community. In attendance were the Chairman of the Club, Tlhopie Motsepe, Sundowns Ladies team, club officials and Boots For Africa.
Andisiwe Mgcoyi who currently coaches the female Under-15 side expressed her excitement to be part of the club’s effort to commemorate this special day.
“It gives me great joy to be part of the club’s strategy to provide more girls with the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful game. As a coach, I love to be around young girls and events like this give me great fulfillment. I am a big advocate of sports development among young girls because it helps to boost their self-esteem as well as improve their overall mental well-being. I am hoping that more young girls can embrace sports so that they can benefit from the physical, mental and social benefits the game offers,” Andisiwe stated.
Since its inception in 1987, the day has been commemorated to promote and recognize the participation of girls and women in sports as well as break down gender barriers and stereotypes in sports.
Lerato Kgasago emphasized the personal significance of National Girls and Women in Sports Day to her and acknowledged the woman who was the source of inspiration for her to pursue football.
“I am always excited about this special day because it recognizes the significance of women’s involvement in sports. Football provides a safe and supportive environment in which young girls can develop confidence, self-discipline and a sense of accomplishment. As a professional, it gives me great joy to inspire and motivate younger girls to get involved in the beautiful game. Aside from my parents, Portia Modise (Banyana Banyana legend) was someone I looked up to while growing up because she was a technically gifted player,” said Lerato.
On her hopes for girls and women in sports, Captain Zanele Nhlapho says,” My greatest wish is that girls and women receive an increased level of respect, recognition, and opportunities. I hope that the popularity of girls’ and women’s sports both domestically and continentally will continue to grow and that more young girls and women will be inspired to take up sports. I also hope to see more girls and women in leadership roles within sports and that they will be given the same opportunities as their male counterparts. Finally, I hope that more resources and funding will be devoted to girls and women’s sports so that they have the same access to equipment, facilities, and coaching as men do.”
The commemoration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day is a testament to Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club’s dedication to promoting and encouraging young girls and women in sports. At the club, we are committed to promoting equal opportunities and providing a safe and positive environment where girls and women can participate, enjoy and thrive in sports.
Happy National Girls and Women in Sports Day!!!
