When Banyana Banyana lifted the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, there was extra jubilation and pride among the University of the Western Cape (UWC) community.
Not only because South Africa had won the top nation’s trophy on the continent, but also because UWC had seen its many years of hard work pay off in style as 12 members of the national team share a connection to the university.
Thinasonke Mbuli is the national team’s assistant coach and UWC Women’s team head coach. The university also had players – goalkeeper Regirl Ngobeni, defender Bongeka Gamede, midfielders Amogelang Motau, Sibulele Holweni, and forward Noxolo Cesane.
In addition, UWC alumnae Kaylin Swart, Nomvula Kgoale, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Thalea Smidt, Kholosa Biyeni, and Thembi Kgatlana also formed part of the historic triumphant team.
“It is always a pleasure for us at UWC Sport to see all the hard work that our students and alumni have been putting in their craft paying off,” commented UWC Director of Sport, Mandla Gagayi. “We would like to pay homage to UWC current and alumni for their contribution to ensuring that Banyana Banyana achieves the long-awaited WAFCON Champions status.”
Banyana Banyana arrived home from Morocco today (26 July 2022), and UWC is set to welcome its shining stars soon.
