13 November 2019 – Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana’s Leandra Smeda has joined an illustrious and elite group of national team players who have made 100 appearances for their country – the likes of Janine van Wyk, Refiloe Jane, Nompulelelo Nyandeni, Noko Matlou, Amanda Dlamini, Mamello Makhabane and Portia Modise.
Smeda reached the milestone achievement in the recent international friendly match against Japan, where she was honoured by proud sponsor Sasol and the South African Football Association (SAFA).
The clash took place at the Kitakyushu stadium on Sunday, 10 November 2019.
As a young girl watching her father play football, Smeda became interested in the sport and was inspired to play. She quickly realised how good she was after being selected for the South African School Games, representing Western Cape’s under 12 girls’ team.
“At age 11 I realised that football is what I truly love and enjoy. Although I participated in other sports, I always gravitated more towards the game of football,” she said.
Growing up in Velddrif, Smeda played in the Sasol League for over eight years with teams such as Ambassadors Ladies, Cape Town Roses and University of Cape Town. She was then scouted and invited to join Banyana Banyana in 2010.
After eight years in the national team, Smeda finally received her first international contract in 2018, earning herself a spot in Luthianian club, Gintra Universitetas. She then moved to Swedish club, Vittsjö GIK, where she is currently based.
Although she’s playing for a well-known international team, Smeda admits that it all started in the Sasol League.
“I think Sasol’s sponsorship has been really good for women’s football in South Africa. Women footballers are receiving more exposure, you can see it by the number of players from both Banyana Banyana and the Sasol League obtaining contracts abroad. I don’t think I would be here today if I did not receive the opportunity to play and show my talent through the Sasol League, so I’m really grateful for that,” said Smeda.
It hasn’t been an easy journey to 100 caps as the midfielder recalls some of the challenges that she faced along the way.
“The biggest challenge I faced in my football career was when I was still a student and had to study, work and play football. It was really difficult for me but with my family and friends’ support, I pushed through it all and made sure that I still excel in the sport,” concluded Smeda.
“That is truly what I believe being Limitless is all about; pushing through the challenges and working hard towards your dreams. My advice to upcoming football players is to work hard, believe in themselves and enjoy the game. They should also put the same effort into school and their studies because the two work hand in hand.”
For more information on the Limitless initiative and to show your support, search #Limitless on Twitter or YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jMRZ_CJR3Y
For media enquiries please contact:
Tshegofatso Mashala
tshegofatso.mashala@levergy.co.za