Football fun thrills young players
Tournament allows children to showcase their football talents.
The Primrose Sports Academy hosted the Primrose Soccer Tournament featuring a number of local clubs to add festive cheer to children’s lives.
The tournament took place on Saturday at Sunnyridge Primary School’s sports grounds.
A medical research company, The Wits Health Consortium (WHC), belonging to the University of the Witwatersrand, collaborated with Primrose Sports Academy to ensure the realisation of the big day.
The academy is a Germiston-based non-governmental organisation (NGO) founded by Doctor Motsoeneng, a Primrose resident.
“The NGO is dedicated to enriching and developing the lives of youngsters, between the ages of 13 and 17 years old, from previously disadvantaged areas through sport and wellness activities,” said Xolelwa Masoka, communications manager at WHC.
“Collaborating with them was part of our corporate social responsibility strategy, and it fell in line with our aim to increase our visibility in communities across the country and provide empowerment opportunities to those who need it most.”
Teams who participated in the tournament were the Primrose Sports Academy, Jairus Leaders Football Club, Two for Joy Football Club and Burning Stars Football Club.
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“The boys have had nothing to celebrate all year long and I had been struggling to make this tournament a reality for them,” said Motsoeneng.
“I knew this tournament would light up their spirits and keep them active in sport.
“I constantly try my best to keep children off the streets, out of harm’s way and minimise their chances of being involved in criminal activities.
“We teach discipline and respect for others at the academy, life skills that can enrich their lives and not destroy them.”
WHC presented the Primrose Sports Academy with a new kit, which they sported at the tournament.
“The kit is a form of showing support and encouragement for this great initiative. It will surely bolster their confidence a bit,” said Masoka.
Music and flair on the pitch kept all spectators enthralled and a filling, healthy meal, helped WHC preach their message of leading a healthy lifestyle.
“The nature of what we do is to ensure the health of everyone we liaise with. Today we focus on healthy living, keeping active and eating clean, so healthy bars, fruits and filling meals are all part of the fun,” said Masoka.
Following a full day of heated games, mostly ending in penalty shoot-outs, it was time for the much-anticipated final.
The final was between Burning Stars and Two for Joy.
Keeping with the trend of the day, the match ended in a 4-4 draw.
The teams proceeded to penalties where Burning Stars won 4-1.
Ukwenza Design Studios sponsored the medals and the trophy.
“I am grateful for the sponsorship by WHC and Ukwenza. After failing to secure a sponsorship with local companies this collaboration was a great benefit for us all,” said Motsoeneng.
“Perhaps one day they will take note of our work and join us in having one voice in creating safe spaces for the children in our community.”
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