Desiree Ellis excited ahead of her book review event in Cape Town

Ellis will be unpacking her book, titled “Magic: Desiree Ellis from Salt River to the 2023 World Cup’’ at a leadership and networking event hosted in conjunction with the South African Women and Sport Foundation on Saturday.

In an exclusive interview with SABC Sport, Ellis adds it is a dream come true to be sharing this special moment in her hometown.

“I am really excited to be hosting the book review in my hometown. After the book was launched just before the 2023 World Cup, many people were asking when am I coming to Cape Town. I am excited to go there and share my story, looking forward to inspiring women in sport who will be there.

“I just want to thank SAWASF for hosting this event - I believe we all have a story to tell,’’ said Ellis.

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Ellis says she has never imagined that football would see her become a co-author and have her receive an honorary doctorate from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, but adds that she remains appreciative for the accolades.

“If I look back, I would have never imagined for all of this to happen, being a co-author and receiving an honorary doctorate. 

"We never do things for rewards because it is not about an individual, it is a team sport, and everything I do for the team. But I remain grateful’’ added Ellis.

The 62-year-old mentor played for Banyana Banyana between 1993 and 2002 with 32 caps, and later became head coach in 2016. She shares some of her highlights as player and coach.

“The 2002 Cosafa Cup. Starting with the likes of Veronica Phewa, Khabo Zitha, and Portia Modise joined at a later stage. Winning the 2017 Cosafa Cup and becoming the first player and coach to win it. Winning the CAF Women’s coach of the year tournament, and of course the 2023 World Cup,’’ she expressed.

Ellis further shared what she thinks would help grow the women’s game in the country.

“We need quality sports fields, and to strengthen the Hollywoodbets Super League. More games need to be televised to have more people watch the games.

" There needs to be greater investment in the sport, we need more sponsors to help professionalise the league and take the game to the next level,’’ concluded Ellis.