Sandton Sports Club introduces 5-a-side soccer

One of the many benefits of the upgrade of the Sandton Sports Club has been the opening of six state-of-the-art, five-a-side soccer fields at the facility at George Lea Park.

CEO of soccer parks, Ryan Kalk is welcoming people of all ages and skill levels to join the soccer club. “We want to take the successful model we’ve created at the Wanderers and replicate it throughout the country and the continent,” said Kalk.

The official opening of the 5-a-side soccer park is on 23 October. People can already start making bookings to use of the facility for children’s soccer parties, corporate events etc. With the Sandton Sports Club located at the heart of the business hub of Joburg, close to residential areas and accessible to public transport systems, Kalk believes the soccer park is in the perfect spot to flourish.

Soccer Parks offers to coach people of all ages, with Michael Loftman, who previously coached Tottenham Hotspur football club and who has a masters in youth development through football, as one of the many experienced coaching staff available.

“The health benefits of five-a-side football are immense. You touch the ball more often, run more and it helps to raise your skills level. We want the community to come outdoors in a safe and controlled environment. People don’t have much time anymore and the five-a-side matches are just 40 minutes long,” said Kalk.

They will also welcome development players between the age of 18 and 23, who they will upskill to become managers and referees.

While five-a-side soccer is not a Fifa accredited sport, soccer is the sport of the African continent and Soccer Parks will send their top players to international tournaments each year to hone their skills.

Chairman of the Sandton Sports Club, Marc Du Chenne said the addition of the five-a-side soccer fields seemed to make sense since many sports are becoming quicker and smaller nowadays, with the popularity of sports like T20 cricket.

“Five-a-side soccer has been instrumental in getting foot traffic through the club, creating exposure for the club and assisting financially in getting the club off the ground.” Du Chenne added that the club is thankful for the partnership with Soccer Parks, which will greatly benefit the community and those utilising the fantastic facilities available.

Details: To join the league with your team of co-workers or friends costs R4 350 per season, which includes nine matches. To find out more, email events@sandtonsportsclub.co.za or call Cameron Harris on 011 447 1198.

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