MARK WARD
The South Peninsula Local Football Association (LFA) is exploring the possibility of making it compulsory for clubs to enter women and girls’ football teams.
Terence Hermanus, president of the LFA, was speaking to the Southern Mail on the sidelines of the opening day of the season last Saturday at the Rooikrans sports ground.
According to Hermanus, the plan was mooted at the LFA’s strategic congress earlier this year.
“We have seen a major growth in women’s football since last season. Three new clubs joined us this season and it’s a sign that we are on the right path in the development of women’s football.
“This is in line with our plans to develop our coaches and referees with various courses lined-up during July,” said Hermanus.
According to Hermanus, a decision was also taken to place high priority on player safety with various first-aid courses planned.
“This is high on the list of our plans to lift not only the profile of our LFA but also increase player safety and make it enjoyable for young and old to participate in the sport,” added Hermanus.
The renewed emphasis on the development of women’s football in the country has seen the South African Football Association (SAFA) recently advertising the position for a football manager who is to report to the national technical director.
The role of the manager, according to the advertisement, will include working across a number of priority areas such as the development of competitions and clubs in the country.
