A new experience for Wendywood High School

The tournament is sponsored by Sanlam and the Motsepe Foundation.

According to Keitumetsi Makola, the sports director at the school and the team’s manager, the feeling was that although the school had been playing soccer for many years, it was time to participate in a structured tournament.

“In the past we participated in our local league tournament only,” said Makola. “Participating in this tournament will definitely give the boys experience and it will expose them to endless possibilities. It’s our duty as teachers and coaches to help these kids get discovered by professional teams.”

As newcomers in the tournament, Makola accepts that this year will be a learning phase for the players. “We are not expecting major success from the team during this tournament,” she added. “However, we are a relatively small team with players aged 17, we only have one player who is 18 years old. That’s a disadvantage because most schools have 18 or 19 year olds playing for them.”

With that said, Makola added that the team had set its sights high. “The team trains twice a week and plays two friendly games each week,” she added. “We are doing everything we can to make sure that the players are fit and ready for the games ahead.”

The team is coached by Mxolisi Mhlungu who is a South African Football Association qualified coach, and has been with the school for a number of years. Makola said Mhlungu had a very good relationship with the players. “His selection policy of picking young players and developing them will pay off in the long run,” said Makola.

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