- Desiree Ellis, head coach of Banyana Banyana, recently received an honorary doctorate from Cape Peninsula University of Technology for her contributions to women’s football in South Africa.
- Reflecting on her journey and achievements, Ellis emphasised the importance of teamwork, support, and seizing opportunities.
- She also highlighted the ongoing challenges for women in sports, advocating for increased recognition, sponsorship, and leadership roles.
“Recently, I was at an event and someone shouted ‘Doctor, doctor’ and I just continued walking. They shouted louder, then I thought okay, they must be calling me.”
So explained Dr Desiree Ellis as the honorary title has not fully sunk in by the head Banyana Banyana coach.
In April, Ellis was conferred with an honorary doctorate by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in recognition of her contribution to women’s football in the country.
READ: City of Cape Town recognises South Africans for their remarkable role in society
This accolade adds to a long list of achievements by the former Salt River resident.
People’s Post caught up with Ellis a day before the national women’s soccer team headed to Senegal for their two away international friendly matches.
The four-time African Coach of the Year title holder said when she received the honour during CPUT’s Autumn graduation, she was “speechless”.
Ellis, who now resides in Johannesburg, explained that it was even more memorable because she received the recognition in her hometown and could celebrate with her family.
Salt River
Ellis explained that she spent a large part of her younger years in Salt River and added that the area still feels like home, which is why a large mural of her that was created by a local artist on Fenton Road in 2022 is so special.
She explained that she could not attend the unveiling of the mural but was amazed when she saw it in person for the first time.
She encouraged young people to reach for their dreams.
“Years ago, when I was playing, people were saying ‘Look at this little girl wanting to be a boy’, but my parents supported me and I never gave up. To that young girl out there who has a dream, it doesn’t matter what it is, that dream is valid.
“Don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot do or be what you want to be. Make sure that you find that one thing that you are good at and then pursue it.”
Ellis added that having the proper support is imperative.
“Find someone to support you, whether it’s an uncle, aunt or parent and work to be the best you can be. You never know who is watching.
“There are so many opportunities nowadays for everyone to grab. Just make sure that when that opportunity comes you are ready for it.”
Ellis said not being afraid to take chances can lead to your success.
Achievement
She explained that she never could have imagined all that she’s managed to achieve so far.
Last year, she led Banyana to be the first senior national team to advance to the last 16 of a Fifa World Cup.
She also guided the team to their maiden Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title two years ago.
But Ellis ascribes her successes to her supportive team and staff.
“It’s through the players and staff’s efforts. Players make us look good. God has a plan, so I am not complaining. I was an acting coach for two years and people kept asking, when will I become the coach. But all in God’s timing. The appointment came at a time when it was supposed to happen.”
Like all things in life, Ellis explained that her role as a coach does not come without heartbreak and challenges.
The coach said as a team their main goal now is to defend their Afcon title.
“It’s always difficult to defend after you have won it, that is the priority right now. We also want to create opportunities for others by what we do. The generation now will create opportunities for others.”
READ: Desiree Ellis is ‘Salt River’s Pride’
Lack of recognition
Ellis said women in sports are still not afforded the recognition and sponsorship they deserve.
“You look at top athletes still struggling with sponsorship. Banyana Banyana has done so much for women’s football and not many people are coming on board, but we just have to keep pushing and keep making sure that we support and celebrate each other.
According to Ellis, more women in leadership positions should come to the party.
“In football, we need equal pay across the board. It’s going to take a while. I think there are a lot of corporates that are run by women and they need to step up and say ‘I am going to get involved in women in sport’. There are women in powerful positions that can be game-changers.
“We have to keep pushing and make sure that we change the narrative about women in sport,” she concludes.
