Game United FC face challenges in Mpumalanga soccer league

In a community faced with social ills and teenage boys sometimes being led astray, Sandile Ngwenyama (32), aims to keep them away from harmful habits such as substance and alcohol abuse, and crime, by playing soccer in their spare time.

He coaches soccer to boys aged between 12 and 17. The soccer team he founded is called Game United Football Club and consists of 37 boys from Mganduzweni and the communities around the Masoyi area.

Ngwenyama said he started the club in January and that it has gained much experience so far, especially in taking part in the Mpumalanga U17 Forek Development League. “We have played seven games in the league, but unfortunately we did not win any of them. We lost five of them, drew one and the last one was forfeited.

“I believe the team could have performed better under good circumstances. Ninety per cent of the players are from direly underprivileged households. We don’t have resources for essentials such as water, food and transportation when we go to the games,” he said.

ALSO READ: Children gather for a hike and bonfire in KaBokweni

Ngwenyama needs donations to run the club, as he cannot find stable employment.

He said the start of the league was already a challenge, as he had to help some of the players acquire their IDs or passports to register for their player profiles.

“This league was a great opportunity for the boys to compete in just less than six months after the establishment of the club. I am very proud of them and I believe they will work harder in the next games, despite the challenges we face.”

ALSO READ: Two Mbombela spellers invited to Dubai competition

Game United FC still has an opportunity to improve their game in the next 23 matches to take place around Mpumalanga.

“We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I believe with the help from the community, we will be able to come out victorious. We will gladly accept any form of help. I am available on 071 643 9820,” Ngwenyama said.