Janine van Wyk has been appointed as the new Head Coach, and tasked to lead the Blue Diamonds. Her appointment marks a new chapter in her illustrious football career, following her tenure as a player and her time as assistant coach alongside Mitch Stevens in 2024. Van Wyk takes over from Stevens, who guided the team from mid-2022 until the end of 2024, leading them through several important campaigns.
A Legendary Playing Career
Janine van Wyk’s journey in football is nothing short of remarkable. With an African record for the most international caps by any footballer, she is an iconic figure in women’s football, both in South Africa and internationally. Over the course of her career, van Wyk became a trailblazer for women’s football, holding the distinction of being the captain of the South African Senior Women’s National Team, Banyana Banyana, for an impressive nine years.
Van Wyk led the team to their maiden FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance in 2019, showcasing her leadership and experience on the global stage. She also represented South Africa at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, earning recognition as one of the most respected defenders in the sport.
Another one of her most historic achievements came in 2022 when she co-captained Banyana Banyana to their first-ever Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) victory. This triumph was a landmark moment in South African football, and van Wyk’s contribution both on and off the pitch was instrumental in the team’s success.
Beyond her success as a player, Janine van Wyk has always been dedicated to the development of the sport. She co-founded the JVW Football Program in 2012, which serves as a development platform for young players, administrators, and coaches. Through this initiative, van Wyk has fostered the growth of women’s football and mentored the next generation of stars.
Her journey took her beyond South Africa’s borders as she pursued professional football opportunities overseas. From playing for JVW FC from 2013 – 2017, she moved on to stints with Houston Dash in the United States, Glasgow City in Scotland, and a season in Greece, before returning home to retire with JVW Football Club. Throughout her playing career, van Wyk was not only a key figure on the pitch but also a leader and mentor to many young players.
Transition to Coaching
Janine van Wyk’s transition into coaching comes as no surprise, given her extensive experience both as a player and a mentor. After completing her coaching badges, including both a CAF B licence and a UEFA B licence, van Wyk was well-positioned to step into the coaching realm. Her appointment as Head Coach of the JVW First Team marks her first managerial role, though she has already gained valuable experience working as Mitch Stevens’ assistant coach in 2024.

With her deep understanding of the game, extensive playing experience, and coaching qualifications, Janine van Wyk is ready to take on the challenge to lead the Blue Diamonds to new heights. Her first season as Head Coach will see her lead the team in the competitive Hollywoodbets Super League, where she will work to build on the foundation laid by Stevens and continue the club’s growth.
Van Wyk to lead the Blue Diamonds and Build a New Era at JVW
Van Wyk has wasted no time in assembling a support team to help her succeed. She has appointed Alexia Cassar as her assistant coach, and Bafana Nhlapo will serve as both an assistant coach and the Goalkeeper Coach. This dynamic team will work together to develop the tactical, technical, and physical aspects of the team as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

With Janine van Wyk at the helm, the JVW First Team is in capable hands. The club is excited for the next chapter in its history, with a strong focus on player development, team cohesion, and on-pitch success. Van Wyk’s leadership will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of players and coaches, and the future of the Blue Diamonds looks incredibly bright under her guidance.
As the Hollywoodbets Super League season kicks off, Janine van Wyk’s passion for football and her commitment to the development of the sport will drive her team towards achieving great things. The legacy she has built as a player now transitions into her new role as a coach, and JVW Football Club is eager to see her influence and expertise shine through in the years to come. She will lead the Blue Diamonds during the pre season, and be ready to take the sideline at the start of the league.