Banyana Banyana boosts local sport

eMBALENHLE – Sasol Banyana Banyana visited Secunda and eMbalenhle as part of the Sasol Celebrating Heroes Campaign on Friday, 17 June.

The campaign was launched in May and the goal is rally the nation behind the women’s national soccer team after they have qualified for their second consecutive Olympic Games.

This was an exciting and wonderful opportunity for Sasol employees and the eMbalenhle community to meet and interact with their soccer idols.

Thula Mofokeng said he was happy to see the women soccer stars.

“Playing in their presence was life changing and I am grateful for the tips and information that they shared with us. Thank you Sasol for bringing the stars to us and I am also excited about the autograph.”

The team had a practice session at the eMbalenhle Community Recreation Centre’s sports grounds before engaging in photo shoots with local fans, as well as signing autographs.

As part of the programme, 16 eMbalenhle-based soccer teams participated in a five-a-side tournament.

The Banyana Banyana team cheered various teams on from the sideline.

Sasol has been involved in the development of women’s football for nearly a decade.

Over this period, it has become apparent that the sacrifices and heroism exhibited by the senior national women’s football team is neither acknowledged nor reciprocated by the South African public at large, with the exception of a niche group of soccer lovers and women’s sports supporters.

The Celebrating Heroes Campaign is premised on recognising the hard work, diligence and passion that Sasol Banyana Banyana displays on and off the field, as they fly the flag for South Africa and its citizens.