29 February 2024 – Not many players bounce back from two years on the sidelines to become regulars and eventually earn 100 international caps with the senior national team.
This is the story of Jermaine Seoposenwe, who became the 10th member of Banyana Banyana to reach the 100-cap mark as coach Desiree Ellis’ charges beat Tanzania 1-0 (4-0 on aggregate) in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, on Tuesday night to progress to the fourth round of the CAF Women’s Olympic Qualifiers.
Seoposenwe spent two years on the sidelines due to VISA challenges that prevented her from being part of the national team and after putting the disappointment of that period behind her, she has become a regular in the Sasol-sponsored South African senior women’s team and a fan favorite due to the high work ethic she displays whenever she steps onto the pitch in the national jersey.
There were always signs that the player would become a household name in women’s football as she rose through the junior ranks (U/17 girls) where she was part of the squad that participated at the 2010 FIFA U17 World Cup (Trinidad & Tobago), scoring twice to become the first South African female player to score at a World Cup. Seoposenwe expressed her gratitude to her teammates, the coaching staff and the South African Football Association (SAFA) for the role they have all played in her growth.
“I just want to thank my Lord and savior Jesus Christ. It is an honour to be part of the national team for such a long time, and I think few people get to join the club. I am privileged and honoured to be here. Thank you to my teammates, the staff, SAFA and everyone who has been involved in my journey up to this point. It has been a long one – 14 years,” said Seoposenwe.
The Mexico-based player believes the younger generation of players should know that consistency in the national teams demands a strong mentality.
“Mentality, perseverance and determination – I think it is tough to play in this (Banyana Banyana) team. It is tough to be consistent as well, it demands a lot from you but if you want to do it and put your mind to it, then you can. It’s a lot of hard work and sacrifices. It’s a great journey to be a part of, you make long lasting friendships, and it takes you everywhere. The game of football has given me so much and I am privileged to be a part of this team, and to be where I am today.”
SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan said it has been an honour to watch Seoposenwe’s journey. “What can I say about Jermaine, we have all watched her grow to become this incredible person and player who is such a tremendous role model,” Dr Jordaan said.
“She has continued to fly the South African flag very high in different countries over the years and has never wavered in her commitment to Banyana Banyana or at club level. Her career has now taken her to CF Monterrey, Mexico, and her dedication to her craft remains incredible. Congratulations to Jermaine on this milestone and may she continue to be this amazing ambassador for South African football and the continent for many years to come.”
Banyana Banyana’s long-time sponsors Sasol also sent their best wishes to Seoposenwe. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jermaine on this special milestone, which bears evidence of her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to the South African senior women’s national team – Sasol Banyana Banyana. We are honoured to support the growth and success of women’s football in South Africa, and the achievements of athletes, such as Jermaine’s. May her journey inspire and pave the way for generations of footballers to follow in her footsteps. We believe this achievement will motivate every woman footballer to transcend the boundaries of what is deemed impossible through hard work and determination,” said Elton Fortuin: Sasol Vice President, Group Communications and Brand Management