African Pride Games formerly known as LGBTI Legacy Games returns to Rabie Ridge Stadium
The games aim to foster tolerance, promote inclusion, and enhance representation of the LGBTQ community within the sports arena.
Region A sports enthusiasts are in for an exciting experience this late September and throughout October as the much-anticipated African Pride Games tournament, formerly known as the LGBTI Legacy Games, is set to take place at Rabie Ridge Stadium.
This vibrant event is scheduled from September 28 to October 26 and promises to be a significant occasion for both participants and fans alike.
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In partnership with the City of Johannesburg, the tournament is organised by the Phuti Lekoloane Foundation, which recently hosted a media launch for the newly renamed African Pride Games.
This launch which took place at the Joburg Theatre, Sophiatown included a panel discussion and a draw to determine the matchups for the teams that will compete.
The overarching aim of this tournament is both noble and ambitious – to foster tolerance, promote inclusion, and enhance representation of the LGBTQ community within the sports arena.
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Phuti Lekoloane, the founder of the games, a celebrated sports personality, and a staunch LGBTIQ activist expressed that the concept of the tournament was focused on giving back to the participating teams. He emphasised the significant financial strain that teams often faced.
“We truly understand how much teams spend just to join a tournament. Our vision is to create an environment where teams can reap the benefits of participation without having to pay any hefty affiliation fees,” said Lekoloane.
He further articulated that creating a sustainable tournament was not something that would materialise overnight.
“This initiative is not just a fleeting moment, it requires time and dedication. As teams and organisers, we must ensure that this venture flourishes. It is crucial to remember that this is not about favouring certain teams. If more established tournaments like MTN 8 and the Telkom Charity Cup can achieve success, then we can certainly do it as well. If you look closely, we fill stadiums more consistently.”
The tournament is set to showcase a variety of sports, primarily focusing on football and netball. Athletes can look forward to an exhilarating competition featuring eight female netball teams and eight male netball teams, along with 32 U23 youth soccer teams, eight senior female soccer teams, and 32 senior male soccer teams.
These talented teams will clash at the Rabie Ridge Stadium, fostering not only sportsmanship but also a sense of community and pride among all participants and spectators.
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