Coca-Cola® in partnership with the South African Schools Football Association (SASFA) has launched this year’s edition of the COPA Coca-Cola® u.15 school’s tournament.
Known as the competition that proudly embodies the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship, the long-standing Coca-Cola® youth programme has over the years reached youngsters worldwide.
“The COPA Coca-Cola not only gives young boys an opportunity to achieve their dreams but is a phenomenal way to inject self-confidence, discipline and pride to the youngsters and we are happy to play a part in their growth,” he added.
Unearthing fresh talent remains at the cornerstone of the tournament and current South African u.20 national goalkeeper, Khulekani Kubheka, is one of the role models who was discovered by the tournament.
Kubheka recently returned from his third FIFA World Cup™ after graduating from the tournament four years ago.
He has been chosen by Coca-Cola® to be this year’s teen ambassador and will be travelling to all the provincial tournaments.
“I am honoured to have been selected as one of the ambassadors of this great tournament that continues to pave the way for up and coming young footballers. I have been fortunate enough to travel the world and represent my country at a FIFA World Cup on three occasions, thanks to the COPA Coca-Cola tournament,” he says.
“What is more exciting and important for me is the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship that Coca-Cola imparts in teenagers during the competition. It is not just about competing but producing future role models,” he adds.
Joining him at the venues will be experienced and well-rounded soccer legend in Lucky Lekgwathi.
Together, they will assist in hand-picking players to be part of the COPA Future Stars Camp.
Sponsorship manager for Coca-Cola®, Puso Makume said: “Coca-Cola® takes pride in offering the COPA Coca-Cola® tournament as an opportunity for teens to showcase their talent and build everlasting memories on and off the field. The introduction of this year’s teen-centric COPA Coca-Cola® anthem is an opportunity for teens to co-create whilst enjoying their favourite refreshing drink” said Makume.
The winning school for this year’s tournament will walk away with the honour of being crowned the 2019 COPA Coca-Cola® champions, as well as R80 000.
The prize money will go towards the development of their school’s educational or sporting facilities.
The second and third place winners will receive R30 000 and R25 000 respectively.
In Mpumalanga the games will be played at KaMhlushwa Stadium on August 3.
