Banyana Ba Style’s New Faces: The Debutants Review Their First Season
© BackpagePixAuthor: John AliuIt was a memorable debut season for the trio of Noxolo Cesane, Isabella Ludwig and Ronnel Donnelly, who each had their first campaign with Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and were crowned champions.Despite the pressure of joining a championship-winning team, they adapted seamlessly, showcasing talent, character and determination that align perfectly with the Club’s winning culture. All three played a vital role in maintaining Banyana Ba Style’s dominance in the Hollywoodbets Super League, helping the team secure its sixth consecutive Hollywoodbets Super League title.
© BackpagePixNoxolo Cesane Noxolo Cesane
Cesane began her football journey at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), developing her skills at the collegiate level. She went on to play for Stade de Reims in France in 2022 and Tigres UANL in Mexico in 2023, returned briefly to UWC and then joined Eastern Flames in Saudi Arabia before moving to Banyana Ba Style.
Joining Sundowns represented a fresh start and an opportunity to elevate her game within an elite environment.

“The move to Chloorkop was a completely new beginning for me. It came with many changes and expectations, but I was ready for the challenge. My first impression of the Club was that the standards are incredibly high and everyone here is committed to excellence. From the very first day, I could see that professionalism and passion are at the heart of everything we do.”

The midfielder quickly settled thanks to the support of her teammates and the technical staff. She made an immediate impact on the field, scoring her first goal for the Club in a 2-0 win over the University of Pretoria, followed by another in a 3-1 away victory over Durban Ladies. She then scored a brace in the highly anticipated Tshwane derby, contributing to a 5-1 win against TUT Ladies.

“My teammates were incredibly welcoming and supportive. They made it easy for me to feel part of the family from the start. I also knew a few players from the national team, which helped me adjust quickly. The coaches have been fantastic, always encouraging me and guiding me to perform at my best.”

Reflecting on her first season, Cesane highlighted her personal growth and the lessons she has learned both on and off the pitch.

“This season has taught me the importance of staying composed under pressure and trusting my abilities. I have learned to handle different situations during matches and make quick decisions on the field. Being part of Masandawana has shown me what it means to maintain the highest standards every day. I feel that I have grown not just as a player but also as a person, learning how to be disciplined, focused and resilient in everything I do.”

© BackpagePixQuickfire Festive Quiz – Noxolo Cesane
How are you planning to celebrate the festive season?
I plan to spend quality time with my family and friends.
What does Christmas mean to you?
Christmas is a time for gratitude, joy and being with loved ones. It is a moment to appreciate everything that has happened over the year and to share happiness and warmth with family and friends.
What is your favorite festive food or activity?
Umngqusho (samp with beans), which is made with samp, beans and lamb. It is a meal that reminds me of home and brings back fond memories of celebrating with my family.
If you could give one Christmas gift to your teammates or coaches, what would it be and why?
I would give them something meaningful that celebrates our shared experiences and achievements this season.
© BackpagePixIsabella Ludwig Isabella Ludwig
Isabella Ludwig has made an immediate impact for the Brazilians thanks to her pace, creativity and clinical finishing. She wasted no time making her mark, opening her account in the 2-0 away win over the University of Cape Town, followed by a brace in the 8-0 victory against Royal AM.

Ludwig continued her scoring spree with a sublime hat-trick in the 5-0 win over the University of Johannesburg, cementing her reputation as one of Sundowns Ladies’ most dangerous attacking threats.

“It has been an incredible journey so far. Playing at Sundowns pushes you to grow faster than you ever imagined. Every match and training session is an opportunity to get better. I have loved every moment of my debut season, from training sessions to match days, and I feel proud of what we have achieved as a team.”

Ludwig says the team’s unity and support made her transition to Sundowns seamless.

“The support from the players and coaches has been unbelievable. The environment here is competitive but also very caring. We lift each other and that helps you thrive. Everyone encouraged me to play with confidence and enjoy the game, which made settling in much easier. I feel lucky to be part of a team that is not only talented but also genuinely supportive.”

Reflecting on her debut season, Ludwig highlighted her growth as a player.
“My tactical awareness and decision-making have improved significantly. I have learned to stay calm in front of goal, read the game better and make smarter decisions under pressure. Watching my experienced teammates has been a huge learning opportunity — their work ethic and discipline have inspired me to push myself every day. Being part of this team has helped me grow into a more complete player both on and off the pitch.”
© BackpagePixQuickfire Festive Quiz – Isabella Ludwig
How are you planning to celebrate the festive season?
I will spend time with my family and close friends, relaxing and reflecting on the year.
What does Christmas mean to you?
Christmas is about family, gratitude, and enjoying time together.
What is your favorite festive food or activity?
My mother’s roast and homemade desserts. It brings everyone together and reminds me of home.
If you could give one Christmas gift to your teammates or coaches, what would it be and why?
I would give personalized photo books capturing memories from the season to celebrate our achievements as a team.
© BackpagePixRonnel Donnelly Ronnel Donnelly
Ronnel Donnelly has shown remarkable resilience and determination, despite her playing time being limited due to injury. Her first year was not defined by minutes on the pitch but by growth, learning and the positive impact she made off the field.
“Even though I did not get to play much because of my injury, my first season with Sundowns has been an incredible journey. I have learned so much from training sessions, watching matches and being part of this professional environment. Every day brought a lesson in resilience, preparation and teamwork.”

She credits the unwavering support from her teammates and coaching staff for helping her feel fully integrated despite her limited game time:
“The technical staff and my teammates checked on me every step of the way. They made me feel part of the team even when I was not playing and that support was incredibly motivating. I never felt left out, which made a huge difference in staying positive and focused on improving.”

Reflecting on her debut season, Donnelly highlighted the personal and professional growth she achieved.

“This season taught me patience and mental strength. I have grown as a person, learned to handle pressure and developed a stronger mindset. I am ready to come back next season stronger and contribute fully to the team’s success. Being part of Sundowns has helped me build confidence, discipline and a clearer understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level.”

“My goal for 2026 is to make a memorable comeback, continue developing my skills and contribute meaningfully to Sundowns’ success. I am excited for the challenges ahead and fully committed to giving my best.”
Quickfire Festive Quiz – Ronnel Donnelly
How are you planning to celebrate the festive season?
I will spend time with my family and friends, enjoying quality moments together and appreciating the year we have had.
What does Christmas mean to you?
Christmas is a time to honor Jesus Christ and share love, joy and kindness with family. Our family tradition is to wake up early, go to Church, exchange gifts, prepare lunch together and spend the day enjoying each other’s company without distractions.
What is your favorite festive food or activity?
Malva pudding for dessert. As for the main course, turkey is the dish that always brings everyone together and reminds me of home.
If you could give one Christmas gift to your teammates or coaches, what would it be and why?
I would bake a chocolate cake for them, because they always ask if I will be baking again soon. It is my way of celebrating our shared experiences and achievements this season.
Congratulations to the 2025 debutants for an outstanding first season with Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies!