Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
13 April 2023
With the aim of keeping young boys from the streets and away from crime during the busy Easter Weekend, Ithemba Lesizwe NPO hosted an Easter Soccer Tournament for young soccer players in Embalenhle on Tuesday, 11 April 2023.
The tournament took place at the Embalenhle Sasol club facilities.
The purpose of the tournament is to combat the drug abuse and to also keep young boys off the streets during the school holidays as they have some much time which they could end up utilising the wrong way.
The tournament had two divisions between the under 13 and 15 years.
Six (6) teams took part in the tournament namely; Emba Milan, Secunda Stars, Inter Roses, Inyanda FC, Ithemba Lesizwe FC and Power United FC.
During the tournament, the boys showed so much excitement to participate and win.
Two trophies, silver and bronze medals were awarded to the runner up as well as the winning teams.
The young boys expressed love for soccer as it keeps them away from doing bad things and off the streets.
With most of these teams lacking soccer kits, the boys seem to not be bothered and played barefooted.
Tournament organiser, Mr Richard Ndzukula said soccer kits are really a challenge for these young players and it is difficult to get sponsors.
‘’Most coaches are faced with kit challenges meanwhile others take out money from their own pockets, which cannot be the same for others who are trying to make ends meet”, said Richardt.
Emba Stars, under 13 team won the tournament with 5 goals over 2 goals by Emba Millan meanwhile Inter Roses and Secunda Stars, under 15 played a draw which led to penalties wherein Inter Roses won 6 goals to 2 goals Secunda Stars Stars.
