#ICYMI: A new era for Touch Perfect

KYALAMI – A new league and tournaments are on the horizon for local soccer academy.

January 11, 2018

Nicholas Zaal 1 minute read

Touch Perfect players Ndumiso Sikhosana and Thakaza Zakalala warm up before a friendly match. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The year 2018 will mark the start of a new chapter for Touch Perfect.

Already, the soccer academy in Kyalami has been active for three years, but the time has come for it to reach the next level.

“We have had lots of friendly matches to build our U8 team and now it is time to join the Easterns League and host some tournaments,” said academy founder, Titus Tshelane.

Touch Perfect player, Thakaza Zakalala (white) dribbles the ball around a Northerns Football Club player during a recent friendly. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The academy, which started out at HeronBridge College, but later moved to Kyalami Preparatory School, will have its annual trial sessions on 26 and 27 January, with the aim of strengthening its existing U8 team and forming other teams of younger ages.

Currently, youngsters as young as five years old play at the academy.

Touch Perfect player, Cameron Pluke side-steps an opponent during a recent friendly match. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

“I would encourage parents to bring their children to trials, as the benefits of soccer are many.”

Tshelane added that soccer taught life skills children would use as they grow up.

“If someone dribbles past you on the field, you can decide to give up or to chase them and try win the ball back. You cannot have 11 strikers in a team, so it requires discipline, communication, respect and teamwork to play in a team environment.”

He said these life skills could flow over to a child’s schoolwork and relationships with other people.

The times for the soccer trials will be confirmed and will be held at Kyalami Preparatory School.

Details: Touch Perfect email titustshelane@gmail.com