Preseason preparations are gathering momentum at Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies. The reigning Champions have won every edition of the Hollywoodbets Super League since its inception and are now back on the training pitch as they gear up for what promises to be another exciting campaign across domestic and continental competitions.
Among the players embracing the early preseason intensity are recruits Wendy Shongwe and Gugu Dhlamini, who have already begun integrating into the squad as the team sharpens both its physical conditioning and tactical structures ahead of the new season.
For Shongwe, joining preseason with Banyana Ba Style has been a source of motivation and inspiration.
“Being in preseason with the reigning Hollywoodbets Super League Champions means a lot to me because it motivates me to work harder and gives me a real glimpse of what being a Champion looks and feels like every day. That motivates me to stay locked in, work on the areas where I still need to improve and push myself so that I can contribute meaningfully to the team.”
The forward also explained that the preseason program has been rewarding, with the technical team placing strong emphasis on physical conditioning and tactical awareness across the squad.
“The coaches are really focused on improving everyone’s physical abilities and also strengthening the tactical understanding of each player in their specific positions. For me as a new player, it is about learning the team’s style of play, building combinations with my teammates and understanding how everyone moves and thinks on the field.”
Wendy also outlined her personal goals for the preseason, “For me, it is about learning as much as possible, sharpening my decision-making and making sure that when the season starts, I am ready to contribute positively to the team.”
Dhlamini, meanwhile, believes the preseason environment has already provided a valuable learning experience as she adjusts to life at one of the most successful clubs in African women’s football.
“I am really enjoying the preseason so far because it has given me the chance to settle into the team and understand the standards that are expected at a Club like Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies. Every training session is intense and competitive, but it is also a great opportunity for me to learn from my teammates and continue growing as a player.”
The midfielder added that being part of a professional and highly competitive environment has already given her a deeper appreciation for the Club’s culture.
“It is also about rubbing shoulders with experienced players, understanding how they approach training and getting a real feel for the team’s dynamics. Being in this kind of environment pushes you to raise your own standards because everyone around you is working hard and striving for excellence.”
Like many players during preseason, Dhlamini’s personal focus is on building a strong physical base while also adapting to the team’s tactical identity.
“One of the main things I want to improve during preseason is building my strength, endurance and overall fitness so that I can keep up with the demands of the season. At the same time, I am also focusing on improving technically and making sure I fully adapt to the team’s style of play.”
Another player experiencing her first preseason with Sundowns Ladies is Ronnel Donnelly, who says the opportunity to train with the Brazilians has been both inspiring and motivating.
“Being part of the team prepping for the new season is huge for me. It means I am stepping into the shoes of the best, pushing myself to the limit and being part of something bigger than myself, the team. I am not just training, I am learning from Champions and elevating my game.”
She added that the experience has already reinforced the importance of unity and teamwork within the squad.
“This has taught me that football is more than individual skills, it is about sisterhood, lifting each other up and teamwork. Training with champions is about representing the team, the league and yourself all together for the success of the Club.”
Looking ahead, Donnelly also outlined the areas she hopes to strengthen during the preseason period.
“What I intend on improving at training is my endurance and stamina so I can keep up with the pace of the game and make a real impact on the pitch. I also hope to improve my speed and skill to help benefit the team in any way that I can. I also intend on scoring as many goals as possible to assist the team, as my position requires goals and assists.”
With preseason training now in full swing, Sundowns Ladies continue to fine-tune their preparations as they look to defend their domestic crown and once again compete strongly on the continental stage, including the CAF Women’s Champions League.
When is the league beginning for 2026 ??? Good to hear from the new recruits and hoping they intergrate very well as we look forward to defending our title. We are syre they will contribute immensely to our season and also taste what it is like to be champions. Good luck