Linda Moreotsene

At a time when few companies have come on board in support of women's soccer, the Gauteng-based Palace Group is quite remarkable.

Not only is the company the official sponsors of Sasol Women's League team Super Falcons. On Thursday they launched their academy at their Sandton offices.

According to Falcons manager Felicity Dire some lofty standards have been set.

"We want to make our academy the number one girls' academy in the country," said Dire.

The academy presently accommodates 20 girls.

"If we had the means to provide for more, we would. But in addition to sponsoring the first team, our finances are a bit strained so we can only provide for that number," said Dire.

Falcons was formed in 2002 and have since dominated amateur women's football. They have won the now defunct Sanlam and Vodacom league several times.

At some stage Falcons produced players that made it in Banyana Banyana

Dire said they aimed to infiltrate the international market and find teams for their players.

"In this regard, we have started negotiations with some teams and when something solid happens we will let you know," she said.