Football Academy celebrates players’ work and progress

Emhlangeni Sports Academy held its year-end function at Dream South Lounge in Mbombela on Saturday.

Emhlangeni, a soccer boarding school for boys from grade four to 12, also celebrates its sixth anniversary this year.

It was established just before the 2010 Fifa World Cup.

Founder Sibusiso Mhlanga, said the aim of the awards was to honour the players for their hard work throughout the year.
“We are a soccer academy that prioritises education for the sake of the boys’ futures. We don’t just want to develop and produce professional footballers, but also enhance academics,” said Mhlanga.

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Among those who graced the event was Orlando Pirates’ dribbling wizard, Thabo “Jomo” Rakhale.
“We always invite professional soccer players to motivate the youngsters. Rakhale is one such player. He is always willing to come and inspire them at our year-end functions if he is available,” the founder added.

Mhlanga also thanked the various sponsors and the partnership of Phakamile Investment, Sole2 Fleet Solution, Seda Ehlanzeni, Ligwalagwala FM, Absa Mbombela and Xhumana Media.

Bongiswa Hlongwane was the overall winner, clinching two top prizes – one of which, player of the season.

Other winners were: most improved in academics, Senzo Ndlovu; most disciplined players, Hlakanipho Ndlangamandla and Thabo Mabuza; neatest player, Sibusiso Mashego; best goal of the season, Mdumo Mkhatshwa; golden boot, Msebenzi Lubambo; most skilful players, Bongumusa Dladla and Siyabonga Madonsela; punctuality player, Sthembiso Nxumalo; most improved player, Jean Sidell; best defender, Gift Maile; best in academics, Mathebula Qiniso; best midfielders, Penwell Mhlanga and Bongumusa Dladla; best newcomer, Siyabonga Madonsela; best day player, Sizwe Yende; best weekend boarders, Lebogang Nyathi and Chulumanco Maphalala; best boarder, Sebenele Dlamini; and the youngest player, Neo Chiloane.