Janine van Wyk, the former captain of South Africa’s national women’s football team, Banyana Banyana, is a pioneering figure in African football.

With 185 senior international appearances, she is Africa’s most-capped player – male or female – and has represented her country at prestigious tournaments including the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games.

Her remarkable leadership and defensive prowess helped Banyana Banyana secure their first-ever qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019, marking a historic moment for South African women’s football.

Driven by a passion for the game and a desire to uplift the next generation of female footballers, van Wyk founded JVW Football Club (JVW FC) in 2012.

The club was born out of her vision to create more opportunities for young girls in South Africa to play football at a competitive level. At the time, there were limited pathways for female players to develop their skills, particularly from grassroots to elite levels. JVW FC was established to bridge this gap.

Located in Gauteng, JVW FC began with just a handful of players but has since grown into one of the most prominent women’s football clubs in the country.

It boasts teams in multiple age categories, from under-10s to senior level, offering a structured environment for skill development, mentorship, and competitive play.

The club’s motto, “It’s more than just football,” reflects van Wyk’s commitment to holistic development – focusing not only on athletic ability but also on education, self-discipline, and empowerment.

JVW FC has become a critical incubator for talent, with several of its players advancing to national youth and senior teams, and even earning opportunities abroad.

The club’s senior team competes in the Hollywoodbets Super League, South Africa’s top-tier women’s football league, and is known for its technical style and disciplined performances.

By founding JVW FC, Janine van Wyk has significantly contributed to the growth of women’s football in South Africa.

Her legacy goes beyond her achievements on the pitch; she has created a sustainable platform for girls to dream big and work towards professional football careers.

Through JVW FC, van Wyk continues to shape the future of South African women’s football, ensuring that young female athletes have the resources and inspiration to succeed.