The Womens’ Administrators Course for 2018, organised by the South African Football Association (SAFA) and funded by the world governing body FIFA, got underway on Monday at the SAFA Technical Centre in the south of Johannesburg. It runs until Thursday.

This is the third edition of the event, which was first hosted in 2016, then in 2017 for the 52 Regional Executive Officers – the women who run football in their respective regions.

The two courses were led by FIFA Instructor Ebro Koksal.

The 2018 event is as a result of a request to have a follow-up gathering to get more information on the running of SAFA in all aspects.

This time, coaches or the nine recently-appointed women Provincial Technical Officers, as well as some top women referees have been invited.

“This is a great event that will further empower women in administration in the regions to ensure SAFA grows into a world class body. This is the biggest gathering of women we have had so far, and it is exciting for us because it is historical,” said Fran Hilton-Smith, SAFA Assistant Technical Director and Head of Women’s Football, who has put the event together.

“FIFA has sponsored this course and they will send delegates to cover the event. Also, several high-powered personnel will make presentations to the participants on various topics that affect women in football. It’s good to have women run their own affairs, and hopefully this will be as successful as the previous two editions.”

One of those women, is SAFA Vice President Ria Ledwada who gave a keynote address on the first day.

Others speakers lined up this week include Nomsa Mahlangu and Emma Hendricks, who are both on the SAFA Women’s Committee; guest speakers, Dr Nomsa Nkuna-Boikanyo, Sports Psychologist; Anneline Lewies, SASCOC; as well as Jessica and Kemiso Motaung, who will speak about the role of digital and marketing in football.

Source: www.safa.net