Famous soccer tournament back after two years’ break
“We are growing the Mamelodi economy, the tournament employs more than 80 people as casual workers.”
It is that time of the year when the Mamelodi community braces itself to host visitors from all the townships of Gauteng.
On May 1, Mamelodi will celebrate the 21th Annual Jab Jabu 7, a Side Soccer Challenge, two years after a break from the Covid-19 pandemic.
The seven-a-side soccer challenge will be held at the central sportsground in Mamelodi from 09:00 until late.
Founder of the tournament, Jabulane “JabJabu” Hlalethoa, said, “We are growing the Mamelodi economy, the tournament employs more than 80 people as casual workers”.
“These initiatives will feed many people. I am proud of my township as it has made the tournament a flagship event,” said JabJabu.
The prizes for this year’s tournament have been capped at R68 000 excluding non-cash prizes.
“Girls are also welcome to partake,” said JabJabu.
“Parents are invited to bring their children for an exciting experience.”
Besides the fun element of the tournament, JabJabu would like to encourage supporters to support the local vendors on the day.
“We have aligned new sponsors on board (Ruvick Energy, Route Monitoring, Druza Construction), with reasonable prizes and better content that will ensure that everyone is always a winner.”
The tournament is used by companies as a platform to foster social cohesion and support the township economy.
Part of the attraction for 2022 is the invasion by the newly established branch of Mamelodi Sundowns called Mamelodi Sundowns Bryanston Branch.
Whilst he is not a supporter of Mamelodi Sundowns FC, when asked about this initiative for 2022 he cheekily responded, “beggars are not choosers and money has no enemy in this tough economic times, my friend”.
“We foster relationships with the least expected as we empower our communities.”
The following are some of the highlights for this year:
– Team Prizes: Overall Prizes (cash and non-cash) have been adjusted across all categories. Total prizes for 1 and 2 spots in Open Category is R30 000; in Masters Category is R22 000 and all the junior teams R4 000. In line with the spirit of the development of football, the u.11’s, u.13’s, u.15’s and u.17’s would be given vouchers which they can redeem at sponsor sports warehouses.
A limited T-shirt will be distributed to early birds entrance.
– Launch of the Mamelodi Sundowns Bryanston Branch;
This year’s prizes exclude non-cash prizes. Registration fees for Seniors and Masters are R1 800 per team.
All junior categories register for R750 per team. Juniors are capped at 10 teams per division.
For more information about the tournament contact Jabulane “Jabjabu” Hlalethoa on 082 788 2504.
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