JOHANNESBURG – Australian women's Premier League club Canberra United on Monday confirmed the signing of South African duo Refiloe Jane and Rhoda Mulaudzi.
The Banyana Banyana pair are the first South African players to play professionally in Australia.
Jane is the current Banyana Banyana vice-captain and represented South Africa at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, while Mulaudzi, who was formerly with Mamelodi Sundowns in the Sasol Women’s league, has been around the national setup for some time.
The two have been involved with the Canberra United winter programme as part of their trial process, and their coach Heather Garriock said the two have impressed her in their short time in Canberra.
Rhoda Mulaudzi of Mamelodi Sundowns during the SASOL League Gauteng Roadshow in May 2018. Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
“Refiloe and Rhoda have been very impressive,” Garriock said. “It was hard for them to get here, and then to come into a different environment and play but they have done very well to adapt and really stood out.
“Refiloe's technical ability in midfield is simply outstanding, and in Rhoda I can see the pace and aggression that I’m looking for up-front.”
Jane and Mulaudzi both said that the prospect of being the first South Africans to play in the Westfield W-League would be an important step for youngsters in South Africa looking to follow in their footsteps, and both are grateful for the opportunity.
“I am very excited and grateful for the opportunity at Canberra United. I am looking forward to the season and making the most of this chance,” said Jane.
“This is a very exciting opportunity for us,” Mulaudzi added.