21 May 2021 – Head coach of the Sasol-sponsored Banyana Banyana, Desiree Ellis will be in Bloemfontein this weekend (22-23 May 2021) in her first provincial visit since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ellis will conduct a workshop to be attended by local Sasol League coaches. She will also stay over to watch two matches as she continues her search for more national team players.
The face-to-face engagement by the head coach will take place at the Free State Sports Science Institutions – the SAFA Free State offices, on Saturday, 22 May 2021, and will be limited to a small number of participants, in line with the SAFA Covid-19 protocols.
The workshop will be streamed live on Sasol and SAFA social media platforms, with interactive participation from those who are unable to attend, or outside the province.
“This opportunity has been created for the Head Coach of the National Women’s Football Team to formally engage Sasol League players and coaches on matters related, but not limited to, Banyana Banyana, and we are grateful that this is coming to fruition,” said Dean Somerset – Manager: Group Brand & Sponsorships at Sasol.
Among other topics, Ellis will present a paper on the selection criteria and scouting; technical and tactical challenges, as well as performance analysis.
The Banyana Banyana mentor will conclude her business in the Free State on Sunday, 23 May when she will be watching two Sasol League matches that will be staged at the University of the Free State.
In the first game, second placed Central University of Technology will go toe to toe with third-placed Grassland Ladies, while log leaders Kovsies will battle it out with Ace Milan who are on the fourth spot.
The two Stream A clashes will kickoff at 10h30 and 13h30 respectively.
Sasol League will be hosting these events (workshop and matches) against the backdrop of very strict Covid-19 regulations, and, as such, no spectators will be allowed.
“This is an added incentive for the players and the local coaches – that the head coach of Banyana Banyana will be watching from the stands, and there is no better motivation than that for all involved. This is only the beginning and our aim is to make an appearance in most of the provinces. We will announce over the coming days how this will pan out in other Provinces as well. When not in action themselves, the other provinces or clubs can follow the live streaming, which is also another way of taking the game to the people,” added Somerset.
This initiative once again affirms Sasol’s commitment as one of the leading sponsors of women’s football in South Africa, as well as supporting and drive increased interest of the beautiful game, in particular, the Sasol League.
PLEASE NOTE:
• Covid 19 Regulations must be observed at all times
• Due to the above, only a limited number of participants will be allowed at both venues – and they need to be in possession of accreditation and a permit.
• No Mask No entry at the University
*** The University’s Protection Services and the Covid 19 Monitors will strengthen compliance monitoring which was already inititiated as of 10th May 2021
For more information, kindly contact –
Matlhomola Morake (on behalf of Sasol)
+27 82 7444 919
mmorake4@gmail.com
or
Thomas Sadiki
Head of Competitions: SAFA
+27 82 417 4382
thomas.sadiki@safa.net