STREET soccer fans will enjoy Smirnoff Raga Bolo, a five-a side street soccer championship with soccer legends. The games kick-off in February and the finals are in June.
Legends like Pollen ‘Trompies’ Ndlanya, Stanton ‘Stiga’ Fredericks, Thabo Mngomeni and Benedict ‘Tso’ Vilakazi will be among the street soccer fans during this championship. In Raga Bolo, streets are the pitches and it is a sporting tournament for the local communities.
The RECORD got to know more about Raga Bolo with the Daveyton legend, Trompies. He explained that Raga Bolo is a five-a-side street soccer championship played by predominantly tavern teams around the country.
“The four of us are ambassadors of Raga Bolo. I believe they chose us because we understand the game, we were all great footballers during our hay days. As much as people drink, they need to exercise. So apart from entertainment, we need people to live a healthy lifestyle hence this championship.
“We also motivate the spectators because some of the people see us on TV and when we meet them face to face and relate our success stories, they are inspired. Everyone knows what boredom can do to young idle minds. I think this initiative will help communities because you don’t have to drink to participate.
“Raw talent is the order of the day in this championship. Interacting with the players can help them fulfil their dreams of playing soccer professionally,” explained Trompies.
Besides Raga Bolo, Trompies also uplifts the soccer fraternity by hosting Pollen Ndlanya’s games every year where he invites soccer scouts to townships. To his success, he said there are a number of professional players who were discovered in these games including Bongani Zungu, Jabu Mahlangu, Thabiso Malatsi, Junior Khanye amd Musa Nyathama.
Interesting facts about Raga Bolo:
• There’s no offiside
• The ball cannot be kicked higher than the players
• Only 136 teams across the country can enter
• You can sign-up at 1818clubhouse.mobi
• It lights up the moment
