Desiree Ellis, born 14 March 1963, represented the South African women's team, Banyana Banyana, since its inception in 1993. In her debut, against Swaziland, Ellis scored a hat-trick. A year later she became captain of Banyana Banyana, only retiring in 2002 after a remarkable decade-long career in the national team. During her tenure as captain the team won 23 out of their 32 games.

She received a Silver Presidential Sports award for her efforts in raising the profile of women's football in South Africa.