YOUNG female footballers are being given a pathway to pursue their football dreams. As part of Women’s Month celebrations, footballers from Holy Family College were among a group of girls from schools across eThekwini who took part in a football workshop with former Banyana Banyana stars.

The skills development session, hosted by Durban Schools Football (DSF), was held at Durban North College. Now in its third year, the initiative is led by DSF director Stef Crasso. The latest workshop gave the girls an opportunity to learn from former Banyana Banyana players Nelly Bhengu, Thandeka Kheswa and Veronica Phewa.

The programme forms part of DSF’s long-term vision to create a sustainable platform for girls’ football, with hopes that the proposed Women’s Football Centre will become a permanent home for the sport in Durban.

Crasso said the session focused on the fundamentals of passing and movement, with the former internationals sharing their knowledge and providing practical coaching.

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“Women’s football has enormous potential, and initiatives like this give young girls the opportunity to learn, develop and believe that they too can reach the highest levels of the game,” said Crasso.

The highlight was a friendly match against a boys’ team from Durban North College. Playing alongside the former Banyana Banyana stars, the girls produced an impressive performance to secure a 1–0 victory.

Crasso said the initiative was about creating more than occasional opportunities for girls.

“For the young players, training and playing alongside former internationals provided an opportunity to learn from role models who have competed at the highest level,” he added.

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