Banyana Banyana captain Refiloe Jane opens up on journey to recovery

Jane was handed the armband for the first time this year in their Three-Nation series opener against Botswana, helping the team to a 3-2 win at the Lucas Moripe Stadium last Wednesday.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Jane admits that her journey to recovery has not been easy and adds that TS Galaxy trainers have played a major role in helping her return to play.

“It was a very tough period during the injury process. Trying to come back was tough, considering everything that was happening behind the scenes, but I am grateful for all the doctors and my family for the support. It wasn’t an easy journey, it included a lot of mental work, a lot of staying disciplined and remaining motivated. I also have to say thank you TS Galaxy for helping me to get back to the game, making sure that - whatever I have lost I regain,’’ said Jane.

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The former Sassuolo Femminile midfielder was announced as new TS Galaxy signing in March, to help bolster the squad for their 2025 Hollywoodbets Super League campaign.

She says it was not easy to select a local team, with many offers at hand, but believes TS Galaxy's welcoming environment set them apart from the rest.

“A lot of things I had to consider in trying to select a team that I was going to play for. A lot of teams approached me, but I came back and started training with TS Galaxy even before choosing a team. I believe their welcoming environment made it easy for me to make the decision to join them,’’ adds Jane

The 33-year-old has made part of coach Desiree Ellis’ 46-player preliminary squad for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

She says she is happy with her return to international football, but fully understands that there’s still room for improvement and a lot of work that needs to be done to cement her place in the final squad.

“It’s been a long period being away from the team, so there’s still a lot of work that’s to be done in trying to catch up - because there’s a lot we want to achieve as a team,’’ she expressed.