Ladies gear up for tournament in KaBokweni

Eight teams showed off their soccer skills during the From Dust to Grass Women’s Tournament that took place at Elijah Mango College on August 9.

The tournament started with knockout games in which eight teams went head to head, fighting to make it to the finals. These were Blue Horse, Genesis FC, Tekatako, Lovisto FC, Spy Ladies, Meera FC, Nsikazi FC and Paris Saint-Germain. The teams that got through to the semi-finals were Lovisto, Meera, Tekatako and Nsikazi. In the first game, Meera played against Lovisto. It was difficult for both teams to score a goal, but towards the end of the game, Meera scored one, winning the game.

In the second match, Nsikazi played against Tekatako, also winning with 1-0. In the finals, Lovisto battled it out against Meera. Meera beat Lovisto 2-1 and were crowned the champions of the day.

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According to the organiser, Lisa Gumede, the purpose of the tournament was to boost their self-esteem and confidence by teaching girls to be disciplined when it comes to drugs and alcohol, which might lead to early pregnancy as well as HIV/Aids. Gumede said football is a sport that unites peoples of all colours and gender, and doesn’t discriminate.

“This was a way of creating awareness by educating young girls who love soccer to stop hiding, by letting them meet other soccer teams in their communities. I am happy to see different communities come out in their numbers to support our sisters. My wish is for these games to be played every month so we can keep young girls busy and nurture them to be professional footballers. I wish to see these teams competing at a professional level, such as the Absa Women’s League and Sasol.”

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Gumede said she would be grateful if they are assisted by some sponsors who can donate soccer kits, boots, soccer balls, equipment, food and water to their monthly games.