The 16-year-old from Tzaneen told the Herald that she wants to break the stereotype that soccer is only for boys.

“I have been playing soccer for the past eight years with the boys.

“I want more girls to start playing because it is such a beautiful game which deserves to be played by both genders,” she explained.

After posting an invitation on social media for girls to join the team, a large number responded positively.

The team consists of players from all over the area including Nkowankowa and Burgersdorp.

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Her mother, Penelope Mabunda says she is proud of her daughter for pursuing her passion, but this was not always the case.

“She has loved soccer from a young age. When we used to live in Bindzulani (Dan village) she played with the boys.

“It honestly did not sit well with me, because I feared for her safety as she was the only girl.

“Friends however encouraged me to allow her to follow her passion.

I now let her be,” Penelope explained.

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Shandlale calls on the community and businesses to assist by sponsoring her team with soccer balls and kit in order to hit the ground running.

The soccer star even moved to Ben Vorster High School because they used to have a ladies soccer team.

For more information and for sponsorship contact Candice on 073 377 9881.