South African women footballers have come a long way and one player who continues to defeat the odds is Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Kaylin Swart, who also contributes as a coach at JVW Football Club (FC) in Bedfordview.
Swart is the current coach for Randburg FC.
Lauren Duncan, JVW project director, revealed that Randburg FC is part of a partner programme at JVW FC, which was launched in 2018.
Randburg FC is guided by Banyana Banyana goalkeeping duo Andile Dlamini and Kaylin Swart who share their experience and uphold the JVW coaching style and philosophy.
Duncan added Swart holds the position of goalkeeper coach and assistant coach to head coach Andile Dlamini.
“As a direct feeder into the Elite women’s club, players have the same opportunities as those at JVW to advance to higher levels.
“Keeping in line with JVW’s aim, female coaches are appointed for all teams under the JVW banner,” said Duncan.
Swart reached heights in football due to the support of her parents, Elroy Swart and Lee-ann Swart, who were determined to support their daughter’s passion and dreams.
“The first time I saw Kaylin play football was for an under-9 boys’ team, Glenville Celtic.
“At first glance, I could tell that she had great skills, she showed potential and met the competitive stature of the boys in the team.
“From a young age, she was eager to play and when I was not available to transport her, she would eagerly walk to the fields, ” said Elroy.
Kaylin’s parents were worried about her playing in a male-dominated sport and possibly getting injured when she was young.
“We were always worried about injuries because boys are much tougher compared to girls.
“Kaylin has had a couple of serious injuries and we were always fearful that she wouldn’t recover from them.
“Though injury prone, Kaylin was able to push through and endure the challenges that came with playing football.
“More so, because of the support her parents gave her she persevered and displayed her tenacity to overcome the curveballs life dealt her,” said Elroy.
Kaylin’s first competitive football experience with girls was when she joined the Sasol League in 2009, playing for the Springs Home Sweepers team.
The league exposed her to women’s football and its opportunities.
“Ten years ago, there weren’t many opportunities for women footballers in South Africa, but thanks to the Sasol League, she was scouted.
“She received a bursary which would enable her to play oversees and we were very proud of her. Even though the opportunities were great for her career, I always wished I could be with her.
“It was very hard for me when she had to leave the country because I wanted to support and guide my daughter,” said Lee-ann.
Kaylin represented South Africa at the u-17 World Cup in 2010 and Banyana Banyana’s first World Cup in 2019.
Kaylin’s mother admits supporting a daughter who plays football was challenging; however, looking at her journey and all that she has achieved makes it worth it.
Adding to the importance of supporting girls in football, Elroy encouraged girls to continue playing football and challenge the norms.
“Find a Sasol League team in your community and start working on your skills.
“If Banyana Banyana can participate at a World Cup then our future is bright.
“I would also like to encourage parents, especially in rural areas, to learn more about the sport and get behind their daughters because they all need our support,” said Elroy.
