SAFA supports Banyana Banyana player Robyn Moodaly

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is fully behind Robyn Moodaly after she announced that she is taking time away from Banyana Banyana to ‘take care of her mental well-being’.

Moodaly said her love for the game remains unchanged, and she will continue to play football at club level for now. ‘Today (Thursday) is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude,’ she said. ‘It is with a heavy heart that I would like to inform you all that I will be stepping away from the South African national women’s team Banyana Banyana. My decision is a personal choice and rooted in my commitment to taking care of my mental well-being.’

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis said she’s happy that Moodaly is taking care of herself and will support her as much as she can.

‘I am glad to see that she’s taking charge of her mental health, and that she’s come out and spoken about it because it is real, and we will support her as much as we can,’ the Banyana Banyana coach said.

SAFA CEO Lydia
Monyepao said the Association is fully behind Moodaly and would give her full support. ‘Robyn is a national asset, and as SAFA we will support her all the way. We also need to commend her bravery in coming out and sharing her thoughts because most athletes are suffering in silence. The mental wellness of athletes is a global challenge and we will help Robyn in whatever way she wants us to. We want to wish her all the best.’

Source: South African Football Association