14 July 2017 – SAFA Siyanda Region President, Emma Hendricks has challenged other women to take up leadership positions in football.

“That is the only way we can expedite the growth of the game within women; women have to take up leadership roles and propel the game among women,” said SAFA’s first elected woman Regional president.

“I am very passionate about this game and I challenge other women to get involved in football to grow this sport we all love,” she said.

Hendricks was elected Siyanda President in January 2016 and according to statistics, her Region has been the best performing area in the entire Northern Cape Province.

“Facts are there for all to see that Siyanda has been undoubtedly the best region in this province whether it is within senior, junior or schools football; we have outperformed all other regions in this Province,” she said.

Hendricks said her only appeal to the men dominated sport was for people to give her a chance and show the world what she can offer. She admitted it was difficult to break with the tradition as some men still resisted being led by women.

“Most of us are just as good as men if at times not better. We are capable and what we are just asking is to be afforded the same opportunities as men.’

She said after SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan had expounded Vision 2022 to the entire province last month, South Africa was headed for greater things in coming years.

“We can’t go wrong if all of us embrace Vision 2022 and implement it to the full. We are already beginning to reap the fruits of that great plan here in Siyanda and it is a question of time before you see future stars coming out of this Region,” added Hendricks.

A prison officer with a local Correctional Services Department, Hendricks has grown up in football and wants to leave a lasting legacy within the Province and the country at large.

“Football is my passion; I leave, eat and sleep football and I am enjoying every moment of it. SAFA President Dr Jordaan has promised to support me through and through and I am relishing the prospect,’ she added.