POLOKWANE – Flora Park Football Club is set to bring change to a community riddled with crime as it became apparent that there were no recreational activities within the area for youngsters to channel their energy into.
This followed after the tragic death of Thorisho Themane in February last year at the hands of teenagers in the community. The club was founded by Phaka Murwa together with three other residents and was formed to keep the youth of Flora Park community busy through constructive activities.
“We felt it necessary to establish a community-based sports club not limited to soccer. We would like to take these young ones from the street and get them involved in sports and recreation. Our target age starts at 10 and the club has various age group teams. We also have a netball team but struggle to find a coach,” said Chairperson, Murwa.
The team has to travel to Polokwane Rugby club to train after they were denied access to make use of facilities at a local school.
Senior head coach, Danny Seabi said that since the team has been active in the community, he has seen some changes in community development. “We keep the boys busy and away from drugs and alcohol. We however need sport equipment and we appeal to whoever can assist us to please come on board. Parents are also important to the success of the team, it would be nice to have more parents support their children when they play,” he said.
Bohlale Maelane joined the team last year and said he joined because he had nothing to keep himself busy with.
“I was inspired to be part of something that is beneficial to the community and I have learned a lot about commitment and discipline since being part of the team.” Pule Moloto, who recently joined the team, said he joined because it was something that the community initiated. He has met new people through the club and his communication skills have improved. To join the team, contact Murwa at 082 518 2021 or Seabi at 079 5917926.
