The streets of Lufhereng, Soweto were filled with joy and excitement as the Youth Day soccer tournament took place on 16, 17 June 2024.The tournament which was sponsored by Harmony gold mine saw organisers mainly Itiseng Mosadi and partners, bringing together youngsters from Lufhereng and surrounding locations ushering an occasion of fun and a competitive soccer spectacle
The tournament did not only provide a way of the youngsters to promote their skills and talents, but it was a way of promoting unity amongst the community and the young people. A vibrant energy emanating from the supporters and touchline soccer commentary, encouraging the youngsters to give their all on the soccer pitch.
The tournament categories featured the under 11,13 and15 sides, ensuring a convincing level of fair play and creating a platform for all age groups to show their developing passion for the beautiful game. The participating teams were, Fast XI Football Club, Juventus Sports Academy, Real Hearts, Revolution, Thubelisha Young Stars, Fair View, Home Stars, Greenvillage Juventus, Black Mambas, Lufhereng FC as well as Tshepisong FC.
Fast XI Football club, ransacked Fairview with a 3-0 victory during the first under 13 semi-final match. For the second semi-final, Thubelisha Y.S suffered a 2-0 loss to Juventus Sports Academy. Real Hearts Academy secured a ticket to the final when they clinched a victory over Green Village Academy, while Fairview won 5-4 on a penalty shootout to advance through to the under 15 finals.
The key highlights of the tournament were the three finals battles between clubs, Fairview vs Hearts, Fast XI vs Juventus Sporting Academy as well as Tshepisong vs Lufhereng. All teams had to show their composure and their accuracy under pressure. With the the finals presenting a bone chilling and nerve wrecking display of football, Real hearts won 4-3 lifting the under 15 trophy. Fast XI football club snatched the under 13 cup with just a comfortable 1-0 win over Juventus Sporting Club. Then finally, the Lufhereng home team, added silverwear into their cabinet by securing a 1-0 quest over Tshepisong FC.
Although there were a few hiccups during the soccer showdown, that could not deter the ecstatic spirit in the outer fan field which was filled with the cheering supporters including proud parents and guardians of the young players, all united in a peaceful spirit and harmony. “The tournament was to show team work and trustworthiness amongst the teams. The losing teams learned that it is not about winning or losing, but it was mainly about having fun.’’ Mentioned a proud parent, Tholakele Phiri.“This has helped more children to stay more active and stay away from the harshness of street life.”
The handover ceremony was a sight not to be forgotten, as the winning teams were awarded medals and prizes. This to the tune of community members enjoying music from the DJ spinning the decks.The players and the coaches displayed impressive football skills and match tactics, leaving the supporters with something to talk about for days to come.
Kamogelo Moremi
Soweto Sunrise News
