UCT Football Ladies slept in the kitchen without anything to eat while other teams stayed in hotels at the SASOL national play-offs. UCT secured their spot in the National Play-offs by defeating Magic Ladies FC 3-0, earning the title of Sasol League Provincial champions.
The Capetonians will compete against eight other teams for the national championship from October 15–20 in the Western Cape. Having won Stream A in the Western Cape, UCT faced Stream B winners Magic FC to claim their place in the coveted play-offs.
But they face serious challenges that threaten their performance. Just days before the playoffs, their management suffered a car accident and is currently recovering in the hospital.
Urgent need for support amidst difficulties
Reports reveal that the players are sharing cramped accommodations, with up to six ladies squeezed into a small caravan, and some forced to sleep in the kitchen. Concerns have emerged from both players and parents regarding the lack of food, as they have not received any meals since arriving.
In light of these hardships, local media group Captured Sporting Moments has called on the community to help financially, urging supporters to donate at least R10 to provide the team with much-needed meals.
A team member shared the banking details for “The Footballers Lab,” which runs the football coaching program at UCT. She stated, “Okay, I will send you The Footballer’s Lab’s banking details. We have been using our money from there to buy players supper and lunches since we’ve been here.”
First match today in SASOL play-offs
The UCT Ladies are set to play their first match of the Sasol national play-offs today against Ezemvelo WFC at 15:30.
Reports highlight the dire situation the team faces:
“Sleeping in a caravan, limited accommodation available.”
“Up to six beds in a small room.”
“No supper provided last night.”
‘Other teams stay in hotels with meals provided.”
“Parents had to intervene and buy food for the girls.”
Accountability and Support needed
The community is left questioning the roles of Sasol and SAFA Western Cape. Why didn’t they secure proper accommodations for the team? Who bears the responsibility for the well-being of these young athletes?
Cape Town, let’s come together to support our UCT Ladies and ensure they can focus on their performance without worrying about basic needs. Every contribution counts.
Banking Details:
Account Name: The Footballers Lab (Pty) Ltd
Bank: FNB
Account Number: 62851366221
Stay tuned with The South African as UCT Football Ladies sleep in kitchen without anything to eat the night before first match in SASOL national play-offs.
Let us know your thoughts by clicking on the comment tab below this article. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook.
