Fifteen-year-old Maanda "Eaglet" Ramadwa has her sights set on joining Banyana Banyana in a few years' time – and based on her recent performances, that dream may not be far off.
Ramadwa returned from Ghana on Sunday, where she served as vice-captain of the South African U/15 side that competed in the Africa Schools Football Championships. South Africa brought home a bronze medal after winning three matches and losing two. They thrashed the DRC 8-0, crushed Gambia 5-0 and edged Morocco 2-1. They lost 1-0 to Uganda and went down 3-2 against hosts Ghana.
Relatively new to the game, Ramadwa was previously more focused on athletics, representing Sinthumule High School in track events. When girls' soccer was introduced at her school in 2023, she saw it as a good way to stay fit and agile between athletics seasons. But the soccer bug bit, and her talent as a goalkeeper soon caught attention.
She honed her skills further after joining the Sinthumulekutama Ladies team, which competes in the SAFA Sasol Women's League. She credits much of her growth to her coach, Mr Caswell Mohale.
In an interview on Tuesday, Ramadwa said discipline was the key to success. She emphasised the importance of education, especially for young athletes. "Those who have talent must balance their sport careers with education," she said.
Ramadwa is confident she will achieve more of her goals, including playing for the national team. She is aware she still needs experience, but she does not shy away from challenges. She also believes women's sport has great potential to grow.
"There is no sport that was designed for certain genders. As women, we are restricted and undermined in this game, which gives us more reason to prove people wrong," she said.