Senanya continues to shine on the field

Moyahabo Mabeba

LIMPOPO – TSHEGOFATSO “Navigator” Senanya (18), the precocious youngster who sent out a positive message about the future of women’s football, is the person who made the Capricorn District Mayoral Cup amazing on Saturday.

At Tibane stadium, Senanya displayed flair as she powered Academy 11 to a championships victory with a hat-trick when they clobbered Chechema 5-0 in the grand finale.

Chechema’s goalkeeper, Helen Semenya, applauded the player who made her game miserable as a “class act”.

Senanya’s rise to football stardom and the impression she made during the weekend is the stuff of sporting legend.

“I started playing soccer at the age of eight with women from my neighbourhood in Setupulana village. I was playing with people who already had knowledge of the game, I was pushed harder to catch up with them and my game improved rapidly,” said Senaya.

She is an example of what makes women’s football now more appealing – the impact that can be made by any number of novices in what can be described as the women football revolution.

Although Senanya did not win the player of the tournament, she was given a standing ovation by her peers for being the top goal scorer of the tournament with a remarkable 15-strike feat. South African Football Association principal president, Able “The Lip” Rakoma, announced that Senanya was successfull in passing her levels C and D coaching course, respect for the young woman was almost tangible.

“This girl is a phenomenal player. Her game is a marvel to watch. I am personally upbeat that if she stays focused, she will go far and achieve a lot in her football career,” Rakoma said.

Senanya has been invited for an upcoming camp with the senior national side, Banyana Banyana.

At the time of going to print, details of her inclusion into the national fold were still sketchy, however, the smile on her face showed that she enjoyed the prospects of achieving one of the most cherished achievements any female footballer would dream of.

“I can’t wait for my call to join the national team, I want to make the best out if this opportunity,” Senanya said.

Youthful dedication and hard work are Senanya’s trademark and now she is the standard bearer changing the all-too-male approach of South African football.