UKZN to take the best out of Women’s Varsity Football experience

To win everything is not the most important and therefore UKZN is looking to enjoy the 2023 Women’s Varsity Football tournament. That is the word from team manager Zoleka Ngcobo.

“We just want to do our best and try to get the best result, which doesn’t have to be necessarily a victory but the learning experience will be cherished.”

According to Ngcobo, their preparations have been hampered by a string of injuries and players graduating, making them ineligible for selection.

“This meant building the team from scratch. Otherwise, the preparations have been going well, the players are mentally and physically ready to fight for the badge [of UKZN].”

Ngcobo is excited by the new players that joined the team.

“There’s the 21-year-old Zethembiso Vilakazi, who also plays for Lindelani women's football team. She is one of the youngest captains in the provincial leagues in South Africa and has created and assisted several goals this season while scoring at the same time. Zethembiso scored South Africa's only goal in the 2018 Under 17 Girls’ Football World Cup. She's deadly with her left or right foot.”

Speaking on the importance of Women’s Varsity Football for the growth and development of women’s football in South Africa, Ngcobo says it is a great platform for student players to play at a competitive level whilst also achieving academically.

“It contributes a great deal to producing academically qualified football players in South Africa. Take a look for instance at our Banyana Banyana team at the moment, how many players were scouted through Varsity Football and USSAs? It is a superb initiative because as a country we get the best of both worlds which is great footballers and well-educated individuals.”

Defenders: Zamashandu Dube, Sinalo Fam, Gugu Mhlongo, Nokukhanya Ngonyama, Noncedo Dlulwakho, Ntokozo Mbhense.

Midfielders: Nonsikelelo Langa, Bongiwe Xolo, Thobeka Buthelezi, Silindile Precious Ndlovu, Unathi Ntsele, Fundiswa Dladla, Boniswa Mncube, Asanda Nxele.

Forwards: Siphesihle Fihlela, Zethembiso Vilakazi, Ntombifuthi Mncube, Thandeka Ntshangase, Lusanda Simelane, Phumla Pearl Nkomo, Cindy Mbatha.

Goalkeepers: Sinenhlanhla Mtshali, Siyasanga Msimango, Aphiwe Msomi.

Full fixture lists HERE.

For information on tickets, click HERE.