Tsakani – Promise Lekau (26) is a soccer player whose journey is filled with resilience, passion, and an unshakable belief in her dreams. Her love of soccer began at the age of four, inspired by her male cousins, who loved playing six-a-side football games.

Their energy, skills, and confidence inspired her, and she joined them in training, determined to become just as great.

“That is how I fell in love with soccer. My father was my biggest role model. He attended every game, training session, and even important life events.

“With that support, I grew up envisioning myself on the professional stage, and I have never doubted my potential,” explained Lekau.

Her journey has not been smooth. The team she plays for often faces financial struggles, relying on donations to cover transportation and stadium bookings.

Although the high fees at Tsakane Stadium led them to choose Nigel Stadium as a more affordable alternative, transportation remains a significant challenge.

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“Despite all the problems, I continue to give the sport my all. Balancing a full-time job and my football commitments is not easy, but I still find time for both gym and game time because my love for the sport outweighs the difficulties.

“It is difficult, but I always make time,” she said.

Lekau’s proudest moment was when she was selected multiple times to represent her province at different venues in the Gauteng SAFA Ekurhuleni Women’s Regional League.

She was also once honoured as Woman of the Game, which not only marked an achievement but also boosted her confidence.

“This milestone also inspired younger players who now look up to me. It makes me feel special and honoured to know that I am someone else’s role model. I want to guide other players through leadership, support, and giving back,” she said.

Lekau believes that football is not just about skill, but about discipline, focus, and perseverance. She advises aspiring players to love the game deeply and remain committed even when things get tough.

“You need to believe in yourself, because it is going to be hard, but the journey is possible,” she stated.

Her biggest desire is to see women in soccer getting opportunities as coaches and referees, saying this will enable women to contribute and pave the way for others.

She emphasised the importance of financial support, citing that women in soccer receive less support compared to the bigger leagues.

“Equal support would help us a lot. To me, football is more than just a sport; it is my calling. When I am on the field, I focus, but I also try to enjoy the game. I have been discouraged along the way, but I regained strength through God,” she said.

Throughout her journey, Lekau has been receiving support from her community, which has been inspiring her to dream of playing on bigger teams.

She particularly aspires to participate in the Hollywoodbets Super League, mentioning that no goal is ever too far to reach.

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