Bambisanani awards celebrate life of soccer star

THE tragic death of young professional footballer Jordan Sinnott last year touched the heart of the nation and world’s soccer fraternity.

The Sinnott 25 football shirt campaign saw an outpouring of grief and love, with more than 850 shirts donated from more than 35 countries.

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These shirts have since found homes with some of the most disadvantaged children in the world.

While at St Mary’s School in Menston, UK, and even after leaving, Sinnot was a big supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership initiative.

He worked closely with David Geldart in South Africa, using sport to change lives.

It was on one such trip to South Africa that he met teacher William Vilakazi, now principal of Vumanhlamvu Primary School in rural KZN.

Last year, Vilakazi’s school, in conjunction with Bambisanani Partnership, introduced two sport awards in memory of Jordan (26) who died after being attacked on a night out.

These are the Jordan Sinnott Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year awards, and this year a third was added – Sports Leader of the Year.

Vilakazi said they were deeply touched by Sinnott’s tragic death.

‘I simply cannot imagine the devastating impact on his family and friends. We will always hold them in our prayers at Vumanhlamvu,’ he said.

‘Through the Bambisanani awards, we remember a great sportsman and a great person. His spirit lives on,’ said Vilakazi.

2021 Bambisanani Partnership award winners in memory of Jordan Sinnott
Sportswoman of the Year: Anele Biyela
Sportsman of the Year: Andile Ngcobo
Sports Leader of the Year: Kwanele Majozi