Ballito women prove soccer has no age limit with Dolphin Coast Grandiose club
The team currently consists of 20 players ranging from 45 to 74 years old, training twice weekly at the Footy Soccer Pitch in Townsend Park.
The Dolphin Coast Grandiose Soccer Club (DCGSC) is taking hold in Ballito by creating space for women aged 45 and older to embrace the beautiful game.
Founded in mid-2024 by Managay Pillay (70ish), the club aims to promote soccer among senior women. The team currently consists of 20 players ranging from 45 to 74 years old, training twice weekly at the Footy Soccer Pitch in Townsend Park.
“Our objective is to improve the mental, emotional and physical health of older women through active participation in soccer,” said Managay.
“We want to promote the growth of women’s football among seniors. We don’t believe in ageism and we’re not letting the old lady in, that’s for sure!”
Managay believes soccer offers similar benefits to more popular sports.
“Soccer for ladies is niche in Ballito. It’s not golf, padel or tennis, but it has the same advantages, such as improving cognitive function, keeping fit and garnering community spirit. We get women out of their comfort zones.”
For many players, the experience has been transformative. Attacking midfielder Michelle Bailie (54) admits she had no prior knowledge of the sport when she joined earlier this year.
“I absolutely love soccer! When I joined, I didn’t know how to kick a ball and didn’t know the rules. You must see me now, I’m amazing because our coach is incredible,” laughed Michelle.
Coach Massimo Pesce, who travels from Sheffield to lead sessions, has played a key role in the team’s ongoing development.
“I enjoy coaching these ladies,” said Massimo.
“There’s a lot of questions, which is great, because now they are slowly understanding the fundamentals.”
Despite their enthusiasm, the team has struggled to find opposition locally, although a match in Pietermaritzburg may be on the horizon. They also need a ground to practice 11-a-side.
As a registered non-profit, DCGSC is seeking community support for equipment and kit, while continuing to build a positive, inclusive space for women to stay active and connected.
The club thanked the KwaDukuza municipality sporting department for organising them footballs, whistles, cones and bibs, as well as Footy owner Kyle Crichton for allowing them to use his pitch free of charge.
To help DCGSC or for more information, contact pillay.managay@gmail.com.
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