Matsatsantsa in ground breaking partnership

By Mandla Dladla & Andile Dladla

In a historic event held at the Multichoice City headquarters in Randburg, the Dstv Premiership club Supersport United made a ground-breaking announcement that is set to mark a new chapter in South African football history.

The club’s CEO Stanley Matthew alongside coach Gavin Hunt and three selected players – Thulani Hlatswayo, Onismor Basera, and goalkeeper Ricardo Goss – gathered to reveal a momentous partnership between the three-time Premier Soccer League champions and the Tshwane University of Pretoria (TuT) women’s team.

This landmark collaboration will see the prestigious university’s female team partnering with Supersport United as demanded by the Confederation of African Football in the Club licensing requirements to participate in Pan-African club competitions.

The atmosphere at the Multichoice Studios was buzzing with excitement as both Supersport United and Tshwane University of Pretoria came together for this historic occasion.

Members of both the ladies and men’s teams of TuT were present to witness the momentous announcement, and the room was filled with anticipation.

The partnership comes as a significant milestone for women’s football in South Africa, as it will provide the Tshwane University of Pretoria women’s team with a professional platform to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level.

With Supersport United’s illustrious reputation and experience in the Dstv Premiership, this collaboration promises to pave the way for greater opportunities and recognition for women in the sport.

Matthew expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the club’s commitment to promoting gender equality in football.

“We are proud to be part of this historic moment in South African football,” said the SuperSport United CEO. “Our partnership with Tshwane University of Pretoria women’s team reflects our dedication to advancing women’s football and creating a more inclusive sporting environment.”

Coach Gavin Hunt also shared his thoughts on the collaboration, expressing his excitement to work with the talented players from Tshwane University of Pretoria.

“This partnership opens up new possibilities for both clubs. It’s an exciting prospect to have a women’s side in our club, and we look forward to nurturing and developing their talent alongside our men’s team,” said Hunt.

The three selected players – Thulani Hlatswayo, Onismor Basera, and Ricardo Goss – were equally enthusiastic about the announcement. They acknowledged the importance of gender diversity in football and welcomed the opportunity to support and learn from the talented women joining the Supersport United family.

Following the formal announcement, a memorable exchange of team jerseys and a warm handshake between the two teams symbolized the solidarity and camaraderie fostered by this partnership.

With Supersport United set to participate in this year’s Confederation Cup tournament, the partnership with Tshwane University of Pretoria comes at an opportune time.

The increased support and backing from the varsity team are expected to have a positive impact on Supersport United’s performance, providing them with added resources and motivation as they compete at the continental level.

After the official announcement, the players and Coach Hunt took the time to chat with the media, offering insights into the partnership and their thoughts on the exciting development in South African football.

The sense of optimism and determination was palpable among all present, highlighting the potential of this collaboration to shape the future of women’s football in the country.

In conclusion, the partnership between Supersport United and Tshwane University of Pretoria women’s team is set to elevate women’s football in South Africa to new heights.

This move serves as an inspiration for other clubs and institutions to prioritize inclusivity and support the growth of women’s sports. As the journey begins, all eyes are on the future, where this collaboration is expected to leave an indelible mark on the beautiful game.