Thohoyandou’s FNB Legacy team crowned champions
Coach Justice Mtileni said the spirit of commitment demonstrated by the players had played a vital role in the team's success.
LIMPOPO – The Thohoyandou u/15 boys FNB Legacy team were crowned as the champions of the FNB Football First 2022 national festival that was played at Milpark Garden Court from October 3-7.
The Thohoyandou u/15 girls almost matched their local male counterparts but suffered a narrow loss in the final match when they were beaten 1-0 by the team from Mthatha.
The girls are coached by Glenda Furumela.
The coach of the boys’ team, Justice Mtileni, said their success was a collective effort. He said that the spirit of commitment demonstrated by the players had played a vital role in the team’s success.
He also praised the technical staff for helping the boys reach their full potential.
Mtileni said that the tournament was important for the development of soccer in South Africa.
He said most of the players came from disadvantaged homes and did not have much to look forward to. “Some of their parents are unemployed and battle to afford their living expenses. The tournament provided them with hope and made them believe in their ability.”
Mtileni said his team had produced many notable youngsters who were promising to make inroads into the senior arena.
“We have produced good players including Thendo Mukumela who plays for Amazulu, Xiluva Chabalala and Madembe Tshikumbu, who are now with the Maindies Ladies team and Banyana Banyana, Khathutshelo Rumani played for Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila and Pfunzo Ramunasi for Supersport Academy.”
