College’s sports academy to benefit students and community
“We want to identify talent in the two areas and then start an academy, where we will teach the children life skills and the skills needed to succeed in various sporting codes.”
The Ekurhuleni Agricultural College (EAC) sports coach, Elvis Shiburi, said he wants the college to produce farmers and well-rounded students who would excel in all aspects of life.
“We want our students to also focus on their social lives rather than always being focused on their academics,” Shiburi said.
Sitting alone in a gazebo decorated with soccer, rugby and netball balls and various sporting equipment, Shiburi’s tent was almost unrecognisable because of the buzz created by the crowds of emerging and aspirant farmers, who gathered at the many tents to chat with industry experts during the EAC’s farmers’ day event on May 5.
He said he wanted to start a sports programme that would not only benefit the students but the children of Cloverdene and Crystal Park.
“Our main aim is to have a college league that will lead to the formation of a national college cup for all further education training centres in the country.
“But first, the communities of Cloverdene and Crystal Park must benefit. We want to identify talent in the two areas and then start an academy, where we will teach the children life skills and the skills needed to succeed in various sporting codes,” said Shiburi.
The coach holds a generic coaching licence and South African Football Association and Confederation of African Football D licences. He also has introductory coaching and professional development academy certificates.
“Our most talented players in the various codes will be referred to professional clubs for further development.
“We’d also like to build partnerships with local football clubs, as well as those in the lower leagues of our professional structures so that we can send our talented footballers for trials.”
Shiburi invited those near the EAC and those interested in being part of the college’s sports programme to call him on 063 567 8725 or 081 479 7890 for more information.
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