South African Trailblazers Share Aspirations for the Future of Women’s Sport in 2026
2026 promises to be another headline year for women’s sport, with athletes aiming to build on their recent successes across all disciplines with an international Netball home tour against Australia setting the pace late in January, the Women’s African Cup of Nations gets underway in Morocco this March, and the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup approaches fast in England and Wales this June.
As the New Year brings renewed hope that despite significant progress in women’s sport, further meaningful change is needed, gsport spoke with industry leaders about their aspirations for women’s sport in 2026.
In recent years, we have seen women’s boxing come to the fore, and much of that is due to the tireless work behind the scenes of Colleen McAusland. The manager of South Africa and the continent’s best female fighters has been dedicated and persistent in her pursuit of gender parity in boxing.
“Women’s boxing has the talent, the heart, and the work ethic. What we need now is more opportunities and visibility.”
SA Boxing Manager, Colleen McAusland
“When women are given the same chances and the platform to inspire and change lives, especially for young people, professional female boxers become role models for younger girls and help bring more young girls into the sport,” says McAusland. “When that happens, boxing grows stronger for everyone.”
Sports administrator Brenda Marolen, also a Comrades Marathon Board member, enters the new year running for the Central Gauteng Athletics presidency, with elections taking place in late January.
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Marolen is well-known for her role as a mentor within the running community, as she uplifts the youngsters of the sport. Marolen says she hopes that the new year is filled with motivation and optimism about what can be achieved.
“Here’s to a fulfilling 2026 filled with strength, resilience, and triumphs – on and off the field! May our voices be heard, our achievements celebrated, and our journeys be a source of inspiration.”
Sports Administrator, Brenda Marolen
“Let us make 2026 a year of intentional growth and empowerment, lead with purpose – mentor with passion, and uplift each other to new heights. Let us crush those goals!”
World Surf League, Regional Director for Africa, Tasha Mentasti, says she hopes all young sportswomen believe in themselves and fulfil their true potential.
“Surfing has taught me that strength isn’t about conquering the ocean, it’s about trusting yourself enough to rise again and again. In 2026, I want every girl in sport to know this: Your place is already earned. Take up space, lead with courage, and let your passion move the world.”
Regional Director for Africa at the World Surf League, Tasha Mentasti
Marlene Coetzee-George, CEO of Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, has been a trailblazer as a female leader in sports administration in South Africa. Her wish for the new year to women is for women in the industry to continue leading with vitality.
“I have been so encouraged by the wave of goodwill, kindness, and support I have witnessed among women leading the charge in sport.”
Laureus Sport for Good Foundation CEO, Marlene Coetzee-George
“My wish for everyone serving this dynamic industry so courageously and with vitality: May you continue to serve with compassion, wisdom, inspiration, and encouragement as often as the industry requires, but don’t forget to pause often, reflect intentionally, and refresh your own cup spontaneously. This industry needs your vigour to thrive.”
Main Photo Caption: As 2026 kicks off, South African sports trailblazers including Tasha Mentasti are calling for a year of resilience, purpose, and vigour to empower the next generation of role models and ensure that progress for women in sport remains at the forefront of the industry. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Sports Administrator, Brenda Marolen wishes on SA women in sport a fulfilling 2026 filled with strength, resilience, and triumphs – on and off the field!
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