In partnership with the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Hollywoodbets, LaLiga will take four players to Spain to get a taste of things European as their reward for wining individual awards in the 2022 Hollywoodbets Super League season.
The quartet – Boitumelo Rabale (Player of the Season); Nompumelelo Nyandeni (Top Goal Scorer of the Season); Katlego Moletsane (Goalkeeper of the Season) and Nthabiseng Majiya (Young Player of the Season) will visit Villareal FC in Spain and will, among other things, get to train with the club’s ladies’ team and also attend a match or two while in Europe.
The trip was penciled to be undertaken at the end of that season but due to logistical nightmares, it had to be halted and postponed.
The new date has not yet been confirmed but it is likely to be the end of October or November this year.
The exclusive trip is part of LaLiga’s mission of taking a significant step forward in its commitment to fostering talent and expanding international collaborations.
“The unique venture highlights LALIGA ‘s determination to propel women’s football to unprecedented heights while creating remarkable opportunities for athletes who are setting new standards in the sport. The remarkable skills and unwavering determination exhibited by South African female footballers have not gone unnoticed. LALIGA is excited to present these trailblazing athletes with an extraordinary experience in collaboration with Villarreal CF,” said LaLiga in a statement.
The trip comes at the back of another undertaken not so long ago where youngsters, Zambia’s Tsilile Lungu and South Africa’s Jessica Wade were selected from the COSAFA U17 tournament Women’s tournament last year to get some unforgettable experiences in Spain. Both were Players of the Tournament.
“We eagerly look forward to continuing our fruitful partnership with Hollywoodbets, Villareal and the South African Football Federation, whose support has been invaluable. The prospect of sending four talented South African players to Spain adds a new dimension to our excitement, as we anticipate them gaining invaluable experiences and making the most of this opportunity. With these elements converging, we embark on this season with unwavering anticipation and hope for the future,” said Enrique Suay, LaLiga Global Delegate for Johannesburg.
The four remarkable players selected for this exceptional journey to Spain are:
Boitumelo Rabale:
An outstanding record of 23 goals during the 2021/22 season led to Rabale’s meteoric rise and her coveted Player of the Season title. Her exceptional skills and dedication have positioned her as an icon in women’s football.
Nompumelelo Nyandeni:
With a staggering 149 international caps, Nyandeni brings experience and leadership to the forefront. From securing the top goal-scorer position to exemplifying excellence on and off the field, she is a true role model.
Katlego Moletsane:
Moletsane, the Goalkeeper of the Season from Royal AM, showcases remarkable talent between the posts. Her commanding presence and exceptional reflexes make her a pivotal asset to the game.
Nthabiseng Majiya:
Crowned the Young Player of the Season while representing Richmond United, Majiya’s potential and passion are undeniable. Her youthful energy and promising skills embody the bright future of women’s football.
“Our partnership with LALIGA and SAFA underscores the power of collaboration in propelling women’s football to new heights. This alliance forms the cornerstone of our shared vision for growth and empowerment. Sending four talented players from South Africa to Spain is a thrilling prospect. This experience promises personal growth and a significant step forward for women’s football. The insights gained will enrich these athletes and the broader landscape of the sport,” said Indira Albuquerque, Senior Football Sponsorship Coordinator at Hollywoodbets.
The trip is similar to the one undertaken by five 2021 individual winners, but this time they travelled to London along with Hollywoodbets, led by Indira Albuquerque:
Nompumelelo Nyandeni (JVW FC) – Top Goal scorer [shared];
Andisiwe Mgcoyi (Sundowns Ladies) – Top Goal scorer [shared];
Nthabiseng Majiya (Richmond United) – Young Player of the Year;
Bambanani Mbane (Sundowns Ladies) – Player of the Year
Regirl Ngobeni (UWC) – Goalkeeper of the Year.
By Matlhomola Morake
