Minister Marais congratulates Desiree Ellis on her CAF Coach of the Year Award

The Western Cape Government congratulates Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis as she was named Coach of the Year at the CAF Awards on Thursday, 21 July.

Hailing from Salt River, Ellis was one of the founding members of the Banyana Banyana team and appeared on the field for the team 32 times. She was appointed as head coach of the team in 2018, and has since then coached them to qualifying for the World Cup twice (most recently with their win at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on 14 July).

Minister Anroux Marais said: “Desiree is a role-model to so many young girls and women in our country. She has shown how passion for sport and determination can take one far in achieving your dreams. She is a true ambassador for the Western Cape as she continues to reach new heights with the team.”

The Western Cape Government looks forward to supporting Banyana Banyana as they build up to their participation at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023.