Local soccer star joins National Women’s U/17 team
Not only does she achieve on the sport’s field, she is a dedicated academic which saw her placing among the top 10 learners in the last term.
Former Boskop Primary School learner Gositang Motshegwe will join the national U/17 camp for the World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia on Friday, April 15.
South African Football Association (SAFA) through the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has awarded Gositang a national call-up to join the South African Women’s U/17 National football team, having gone for the trials in March.
Gositang who stays in Willowbrook has been participating in the camp from 8 to 16 April in preparation for the upcoming International game against Ethiopia.
Her proud mother Keitumetse Motshegwe has been her biggest supporter and instrumental throughout her journey.
“She feels grateful for the opportunity, nervous about what lies ahead, but excited to be entrusted with national duty. She looks forward to doing her best and giving it her best shot,” said Keitumetse.
She is currently a Grade 10 learner at Curro Aurora High School in Randburg and has been training with focus and commitment to make the national squad with her football club at UJ.
According to her school, Gositang plays a vital role in the school’s first soccer team as she is a key striker. In the past year she was named the top goal scorer of the season.
Not only does she achieve on the sport’s field, she is a dedicated academic which saw her placing among the top 10 learners in the last term.
Gositang was invited to join the national side together with Nthabeleng Modiko who will serve as the assistant coach, while Gositang fights for the starting line-up in the squad.
“The call-up to represent my country means my talent and continuous hard work are recognised. To be entrusted with national duty is one of the greatest tasks one can receive. This has always been my dream and I am glad to finally live it,” said Gositang.
She joined the UJ Football Club in 2018 when she turned 12, and she made her senior team debut in May 2021 in a match against Richmond United in the Hollywood Bets Super League.
“My experience at UJ has been a fulfilling journey; it has added value to my growth as a footballer. The club provides a nurturing environment, and the support has been amazing. Navigating my weekly training schedule means that I have to find a balance between training and school,” explained Gositang.
