Sasol Banyana Banyana performance analyst Sinesipho Mali addressed the Sasol League Championship players at the Bon Hotel, Bloemfontein on Wednesday 18 October, under the bold theme “What does it really take?”
Speaking in a room full of hopeful footballers who want to be named Sasol League Champions, Sinesipho shared the career development pathway using his own experiences and those of others, such as the under 17 National Team coach, Simphiwe Dludlu who started her career in football with the Sasol League. Themes that resonated with Coach Simphiwe and Sinesipho’s journeys include resilience, time management, discipline, and aspiring to be the best.
“I did not make it as a footballer because I was not so good at it, but because I was disciplined and passionate about the sport, I made it as a talent scout and match analyst. Everything has to start somewhere, and this was the case with me, from going to school, tertiary, and also being in touch with my family. I encourage everyone to follow that path to realise your dreams”, said Mali.
Mali was speaking at the weeklong championship hosted by Sasol and the South African Football Association (SAFA) which extends beyond developing teams in terms of the football skills but aim to provide skills and knowledge to footballers to allow them to realise their dreams and live the impossible.
“Football is not always about kicking a ball on the field – players need to be motivated and understand the basics that come with being a professional player, and we are happy to bring in someone who has worked with so many different national teams and professional clubs, to encourage the players to believe in their dreams and work hard in achieving them” said Sasol Group Brand and Sponsorship Manager, Dean Somerset.
The players also enjoyed a viewing of the Sasol Banyana Banyana road to the FIFA Women’s World Cup documentary which gave an insight into the hard work the players put into making it to the team and what playing in the World Cup meant for them.
