Yammy Young Fighters plotting path for footballing prosperity
Roodekrans-based club draws players from Princess Informal Settlement and needs help elevating players through the ranks.
Sidestepping economic limitations, one club is daring to dream.
Rising football club Yammy Young Fighters (YYF) held a tournament to kickstart their fortunes on September 23. Inviting several clubs close to their hearts, boys and girls from YYF celebrated Heritage Day by bringing the diverse community together through sports.
“Our tournament served as a catalyst for unity, understanding and harmony within our community, using sports to promote good behaviour,” said founder and coach, Thabang Ntaka.
The ‘Yammy’ at the beginning of YYF comes from Thabang’s own exploits on the field and a pet name he has for his wife, Maria.
“I earned the nickname ‘Yammy’ for my exceptional skill and talent on the field. I then got married to Mammy, so the nicknames stuck on us: Yammy and Mammy. When we decided to create a lasting legacy for both us and our children, we knew ‘Yammy’ had to be the heart of it all,” explained Thabang.
Formerly participating in the Jowest Local Football Association, financial constraints led them to discontinue their involvement. Thabang hopes the Heritage Day weekend tournament held at Ridgevale Primary will act as a springboard for them to return to competitive leagues.
“With the support of potential sponsors, we plan to further enhance our commitment to the beautiful game,” said the Yammy owner, who draws players mainly from the Princess Informal Settlement.
YYF’s U15s won their division while the U11s and U13s’ best results came against Ghost Riders from Cosmo City.
The next steps will be league competition in the new year, greater funding, and the acquisition of more kits and equipment. These big dreams will take them from the bottom of the football ladder to the loftiest heights among the clouds.
