Football fun was the order of the weekend with the return of Edenvale FC’s annual pink tournament.
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Hosted on October 8 and 9 the event was held to raise funds for the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) and the club.
As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, this was the first time a non-competitive tournament was held since 2019.
Organised by EFC chairperson Tony Dias and the club’s committee the tournament was first held in 2016 to create awareness about cancer.
It started after Dias himself had a brush with cancer.
Speaking about the event, Dias said it went very well.
“There was a friendly atmosphere. Everything went according to plan and we couldn’t have wished for anything better,” said Dias.
This year 85 teams competed in the event.
“We exceeded all expectations, especially as the event was held post-Covid-19.”
Dias said it felt great for the club to host the tournament again.
“It took a lot of hard work to put together, but none of this would have been possible without the committee.”
“They all came to the party and we are already planning next year’s pink tournament.”
Dias said between R30 000 and R40 000 was raised by the tournament.
From this amount referees and other overheads still need to be paid.
Dias said once all necessary costs are paid the amount raised for Cansa will be shared with the community.
Dias said besides being a successful event, cancer awareness in the community has grown.
Tamara Wittstock, a Cansa representative at the tournament who has been involved since the start, said this year’s event was amazing.
“The soccer players love getting their hair sprayed in support of Cansa,” she said.
Tamara explained that funds raised from the tournament greatly benefit the association.
“The tournament has a huge impact, not only on Cansa but on the community too,” she said.
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