We close off Women’s Month in style as we catch up with one of our female players who has just secured a contract in Australia.
Rhoda Mulaudzi (insert picture) who is currently a Mamelodi Sundowns player, along with Refiloe “Fifi” Jane who is a former Mamelodi Sundowns player will become the first South Africans to play in the Australian Women’s Premier after they had secured themselves a contract with Australian side, Canberra United.
The duo have played alongside each other for quite some time. They have played together at Vaal University of Technology (VUT), Mamelodi Sundowns, USSA National Team and at Banyana Banyana.
Who is Rhoda Mulaudzi?
- Rhoda Mulaudzi is a God fearing child who was born in Venda and raised in Soweto. I’m daddy’s Princess and I am my mother’s first born child. I am a strong and well-mannered being who puts her family first.
What challenges have you faced through your footballing journey?
- My footballing career was not the easiest one. I always fought hard for my success, I had to work extra hard for my journey. I don’t complain, because that’s how God wanted my life to be. I first played for Chiawelo RYI U/13_U/15 boys in Soweto, then moved to Colochester Ladies Football Club to Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club for a year. In 2010 I realized that I needed to continue my studies, so I moved to VUT and also played for them while studying. After completing my studies I went back to Mamelodi Sundowns, as I am always welcomed and now I got the chance to play in Australia.
Most people that have been following you through your journey know that Refiloe Jane is your partner in crime; what does it mean to you that you both secured this deal?
- The deal means a lot to both of us. I will be training with my best friend every day, playing overseas together with someone whom I really love. She is not only my best friend but my family, my sister. My dream of playing overseas came with a cherry on top. I am really excited to go with her.
Enlighten us about your Canberra deal.
- We went to Canberra through Tshepo Vhafuwhi Makananise, he was the one who got us a team that side. He asked if we are keen to play overseas and I agreed. I told him if given a chance, why not? He then called to say he found a team for us, but we have to pay for our own flights and meals as accommodation will be sorted for us. We were hesitant at first, because the money was too much but managed to get the money I needed. We first played with boys, then after the coach was impressed, he then put us in his ladies team. He was very happy with us to an extent that he wanted to sign us right away.
What message do you have for your fellow South African female players?
- Believe in yourself, no matter what. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Work extra hard for what you want and never give up. Do your best and let God do the rest.
Any final words?
- I would like to thank God for opening the way for me, my family for supporting me all the time, specifically my parents for going out of their way to make me who I am today. My coaches and teammates for challenging me. To Andile Dlamini (pause and chuckles) I appreciate you telling me that we all have different journeys and that they lead to success, that God has measured for you and only time will tell you when you will be successful and thanks for making me work harder at training and game time. Lastly I would like to thank Tshepo Vhafuwhi Makananise for making my dream come true.
