For South African football icon Janine van Wyk, chasing new dreams doesn’t mean leaving old ones behind. The former Banyana Banyana captain is heading to Sweden in 2026 for her first international coaching role with Kristianstads DFF, but she’s made one thing clear — her heart, and her commitment, remain rooted in South Africa.
Leading From Afar
Van Wyk, who earned her UEFA B coaching license three years ago, says this next step feels like a natural evolution after a career built on leadership and breaking barriers. But while she’s ready to embrace this new chapter abroad, she’s not letting go of her passion project, JVW FC, the women’s football club she founded and grew from the ground up.
“I’ll still be very involved,” she explained in an interview with SABC Sport. “Even from Sweden, I’ll guide the coaches, review match reports, and hold online meetings. Technology makes it easier to stay connected. I may be miles away, but I’ll still be part of the team’s heartbeat.”
Keeping The Sisterhood Strong
JVW FC, one of the standout sides in the Hollywoodbets Super League, has become known for nurturing young female talent and giving local players a platform to shine. For Van Wyk, the club’s success is about more than just results — it’s about building a lasting community for women in sport.
“With the direction we’re heading, I want to keep our core players together,” she said. “This season has been really good for us, and I think consistency will keep us strong.”
A Role Model On And Off The Pitch
Janine’s story has always been one of resilience, representation, and quiet power. From captaining Banyana Banyana to becoming South Africa’s most-capped footballer and now stepping into European coaching, she’s shown young women everywhere that ambition doesn’t have to mean letting go of your roots.
On social media, fans have praised her move as another trailblazing moment for South African women’s football. One supporter wrote, “She’s living proof that women can lead globally and still uplift locally.”
As she prepares for her Swedish adventure, Janine remains the same grounded figure she’s always been — determined to keep growing, keep giving, and keep inspiring. Because no matter how far she travels, her legacy continues to shine right here at home.
Source: SABC Sport
Image Source: Africa Soccer on X
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