With Varsity Women’s Football just around the corner, expectations are high for the defending champions.
The TUT community has enjoyed exciting football from both the men and women over the past years. It comes as no surprise that the TUT supporters are awaiting an action filled tournament from the ladies, as they have proven more than capable over the past three years.
The TUT ladies start their campaign with the football frenzy already on a high as the men keep on outshining their opponents.
Coach Tebogo Mokae’s side have been top achievers, not only defending their title in 2015 and 2016, but also having eight of their players selected to be part of the squad at the World Student Games that was held in Taipei this year. The side also sees the inclusion of five ladies in the Banyana Banyana squad to participate in the COSAFA Cup. Refiloe Jane, Rachel Sebati, Koketso Tlailane, Letago Madiba, and Bontle Mashilo will all be in Bulawayo in Zimbabwe from the 13th to the 24th of September. This could come as a blow though, as these ladies will not be available to participate in Varsity Women’s Football due to the national call-up. A series of injuries does not make matters any better for Mokae as three key players, in the likes of Jabu Mazibuko, Paballo Lepele, and Mapule Nhlapho, may also not be available to play this year.
Mokae, however, feels that it is too soon to predict the outcome of this years’ tournament.
“It is hard to tell as everyone has an equal chance of winning before the games kick off. So only time will tell,” he said.
Mokae said that they will do whatever it takes to defend the trophy. Asked about the concern raised by some of the circumstances, he showed composure and no fear of what lies ahead.
“At the moment it is still early for any comments, but I can safely say we have started with our preparations for the tournament and we are looking forward to the new challenges.”
The TUT ladies will be looking to defend their title and will be kicking off their campaign in Potchefstroom over the weekend of the 21st of September.
By Thabani Magubane
