The first under 15 soccer awards took place at the Moth Hall on April 11. It was a memorable event commemorating Dundee United for being Endumeni soccer champions. The under 15 boys soccer team won the league.
The boys were excited as they were about to receive the trophies and medals. The enthusiastic MC Bonginkosi Khulu, congratulated the boys and wished them all the best for the coming season. Mr Ngobese, a representative from the South African Football Association (SAFA) was also there to encourage all the soccer teams present. “I am very passionate about the youth and that is why we focus more on developing young boys in sports,” said Mr Ngobese.
He also requested sponsorship of soccer kits and facilities from the Department of Sports and Recreation. Mr Ngobese advised the officials and people who attended the ceremony, not to give the youth money, but instead to support them with equipment. That way they will be off the streets.
Winnie, a representative from Department of Sports and Recreation was also present to congratulate the winners. She thanked all the coaches and managers for working hand-in-hand with the department, making this event a success. Winnie was saddened by the fact that the boy didn’t have proper attire and she promised to forward the request to the department.
Mr Mchunu, who was once a coach himself and now owns his soccer team, shared the history of the football club and added that it started in 2004. Though many soccer teams have fallen along the way, Dundee United has persevered. “I am very proud of you boys. There was never a Saturday that you guys missed practice, come rain or shine,” he said, “the young team played all their matches without fail and they have shown respect for their club.”
The coach of the season was awarded to Bheki Sithole of Dundee United, the player of the season was awarded to Bojas and the top goal scorer was given to Sethembe from Stocks football club. The number three team in the log was Melusi United followed by Stocks as number two in the log and Dundee United as the champions of the league.
There were two boys in particular who were thanked for all their hard work, volunteering and helping the boys, Oliver Gaertner and his brother Tobias Oehrlich from Germany. They are not supported by the government or any private company, but they are here to support Dundee through church services and sports.