For Robyn Coetzee and her teammates at the University of Cape Town Football Club, promotion to the Hollywoodbets Super League was more than just a victory, it was the fulfilment of a four-year dream.
“As a team, this has been a dream we shared for the past four years,” Coetzee reflects. “We fell short early on, even making it as far as the national playoffs. But we believed in our potential, backed each other, and gave it everything. Gaining promotion has been our greatest achievement so far.”
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After years of dominance in the Sasol League, UCT FC has stepped into new territory, where the competition is fierce and every match is a test of resilience.
“The shift has been tough, we went from dominating the Sasol League year in and year out to now being the underdogs in almost every game. It’s been frustrating, but we’re putting in the work behind the scenes,” says Coetzee.
“We’re not here just to survive; we’re here to leave our mark.”
University of Cape Town Football Club’s Robyn Coetzee
Coetzee’s football journey began at just seven years old, playing for an all-boys club, Goulburn United. Her natural talent and tenacity soon found a home in the girls’ game, and by 12, she was competing in the Sasol League. A turning point came in Grade 10, when she was scouted at a roadshow tournament and awarded a scholarship to the High Performance Centre in Pretoria.
“That’s when my journey really took shape,” she says.
“I joined the SAFA Girls Academy and later represented the U20 national team. I was one of the younger players, and it was so inspiring to play alongside athletes who are now shining abroad.”
Now back in Cape Town and committed to UCT both academically and athletically, Coetzee is the embodiment of student-athlete discipline.
“Academics are essential for success in life. Balancing both hasn’t been easy, there were times I was exhausted and behind, but you have to keep showing up, even when no one’s watching. That’s when the hard work pays off.”
As UCT FC navigates its debut season in the top-flight league, Coetzee’s leadership is clear. She speaks with clarity about the club’s shared vision and her own role in making it real.
“Our team goal is simple: do more than just survive. We’ve set reasonable targets and we’re working every day to improve. My personal goal is to do everything in my power to help us achieve that. Anything more is a bonus.”
Coetzee also uses her platform to spotlight a critical issue: the lack of investment in the development levels of women’s football.
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“There’s this misconception that visibility and support are only needed at the top. But what about the development of women’s soccer in South Africa?” she asks. “The success lies in our youth. There’s unbelievable talent out there, but we need support, and we need people to believe in us.”
She looks up to the women in sport who are building the foundations for future generations, and it’s clear she sees herself as part of that mission.
“I admire those who keep showing up, for themselves and for the young girls coming after them.”
When asked what advice she would give to the next generation of women in sport, Coetzee offers the kind of wisdom that comes from lived experience.
“Back yourself and your abilities. Fuel yourself with positivity and confidence. Do it tired, do it sick (not too sick!), but don’t stop grinding.”
Main Photo Caption: Coetzee’s football journey began at just seven years old, playing for an all-boys club, Goulburn United. Her natural talent and tenacity soon found a home in the girls’ game, and by 12, she was competing in the Sasol League. Photo: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: “I admire those who keep showing up, for themselves and for the young girls coming after them.” – Coetzee
Photo 3 Caption: “Our team goal is simple: do more than just survive. We’ve set reasonable targets and we’re working every day to improve.”
Photo 4 Caption: ‘“Back yourself and your abilities. Fuel yourself with positivity and confidence. Do it tired, but don’t stop grinding.’
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