Portia Modise is only 23-years-old, yet she’s been part of the national women’s soccer team for six years.
In fact, the Banyana Banyana captain has seen it all: the good times and the bad, and she is still so passionate about her role as leader of the national team, and her goal of seeing women’s football in South Africa hold its own.
A big fan of England sensation, Wayne Rooney, Portia aims to score many more goals, and can’t wait for the day when Banyana Banyana travels overseas to play against top sides like Brazil and Germany.
Last week, she took time off from her grueling strength and conditioning training to tell gsport about her dreams and aspirations.
Date of birth: 20 June 1983
Nickname: Bashin
Playing Position: Striker/Midfielder
Provincial Representation: Soweto Ladies
Hometown: Jabavu
Why do you play soccer?
I’ve loved soccer since I was a young girl. My brothers played and I always watched them and thought, I want to be that good. They’re very proud of me and what I have done.
When did you start playing?
I started playing soccer when I was 10 years old. There were no women’s teams at that time, so I played for the Rangers boys team.
They treated me so well. I can say they made me a star!
I joined Banyana Banyana in 2000 and have played for the national team ever since.
How are you enjoying being captain of the national team?
It’s not easy; they depend on me a lot. I have to be aware all the time.
If I’m down they’re down. When we are winning, it’s a great feeling to be a leader.
But, I can’t do it alone, team work is so important.
How did the team feel when you won the COSAFA Cup?
We felt great because were defending champions. It wasn’t a tough tournament, but it was good preparation for Nigeria. I think for the young girls, it was exciting.
The experienced players also helped them to gain confidence and believe in themselves.
Who is your favourite soccer player?
I like Wayne Rooney, because he scores so many goals, and that’s my aim, to score many goals.
Rooney is still young and a good role model for me, even if he loses his temper, now and then… (laughs)
Tell us about your hobbies, aside from soccer.
I like listening to music. My favourite is R&B. And I like movies, especially ones involving Martin Lawrence. He is my favourite actor!
Favourite food?
I love pasta!
gsport’s theme this month is SUPPORT. Who supports you in your career?
My biggest supporters are family, my friends, and my coach.
I think it’s important to have support.
Some people think women belong in the kitchen, and we can’t play soccer, but with support we can overcome these criticisms.
Why should Corporate South Africa support women’s sport?
Their support is so important; we can’t do anything without money.
If big business supports us, we will have money to fund overseas trips where we can play against Brazil or Germany to give us more experience.
What is your advice to aspiring female soccer players?
Go with your instincts, and believe in yourself.
Also, have role models, because when you have something to aspire to or someone to look up to, you can become a star, just like me… (laughs)
Greatest soccer dream!
My greatest soccer dream is to have more friendly games, especially overseas.
And personally, I wouldn’t mind playing in the Ladies Leagues, either in England, Germany, or United States.
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