Banyana Banyana head coach Dr Desiree Ellis has reiterated her stance on the biggest teams in South Africa, like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, having women’s sides, saying it will change the landscape of women’s football.
Ellis said this at the launch of the Twinning Project, which was launched by the Department of Correctional Services, Chiefs, and FIFA to empower female inmates at a Johannesburg Correctional Center.
So far there are four Betway Premiership sides that have women’s teams in South Africa’s top flight; the Hollywoodbets Super League.
The African coach of the year says not only will the presence of Chiefs and Pirates attract the much needed potential sponsors but it will also elevate the women’s game.
“I’ve been saying that all along,” said Ellis.
“They [Chiefs] might not be doing so well on the football field but they are still the top team in the country.
“They have so many fans but their brand on their own and them having a women’s team I think sponsorship will come on board. They will bring more brands and I think the game will be elevated.
“You see what Mamelodi Sundowns has done for women’s football, TS Galaxy, and Royal AM. But I think Kaizer Chiefs coming on board, even Orlando Pirates coming on board, I think it will be so, so big for women’s football. I think it will take it to a different level.”
