12 Oct 2015

Kgatleng Regional Football Association hosted the final of the Builders World Annual Youth Independence Tournament on Saturday (October 10) at Sedibelo Junior School grounds. 

On its second year running, the tournament was hailed a success compared to the inaugural tournament in 2014, which involved under 13, under 15 and under 18 categories and also under 15 teams for girls.  

Last year the association partnered with Builders World Mochudi to help in the development of football at grass roots level with the company becoming the main sponsor of the tournament. Builders World in Mochudi committed P30 000 for the annual tournament each year and another company, SEEDCO also contributed P10, 000. 

The youth coordinator in the Kgatleng Regional Football Association, Elliot Banda, said the sponsorship was channelled towards trophies, medals, transportation and also feeding. He said the initiative helped the teams to honour the games and also attracted the youth to be excited and motivated because of the good hospitality.

 “We have had an increased number of teams taking part in the tournament because as last year we had only nine teams but this year we have fourteen teams participating. I think we will continue to have an increased number as the regional committee is encouraging its affiliates to establish youth teams and also other people within the community to help in that regard”, he said. 

 “This year we decided to include softball as part of the tournament and schools were taking part. We hope that in future it will be a sports tournament not only football. This is a way to include all youth in early development programs and keep them away from delinquency”, he said.

Kaone Dithole from Builders World said they were excited to be involved in sport. He said the tournament actually helps the schools as the youth are engaged in sport for a longer period without break.  “It would be exciting to see a long term relationship as we would witness the transition of a player from under 13 to under 18. As a company it would be a rewarding experience if one of them would one day be in the national team because of such an initiative. 

As builders world we are happy with the arrangements this year and we have gained the motivation to continue our partnership for the future”, he said. The under 13 category was won by Umlilo Soccer Academy 7-6 on penalties after a two all draw with Eastern Tigers, Mochudi Sundowns downed Real Master by one nil to clinch the under 15 category whilst Mochudi United won the under 18 category through a 4-3 win on penalties after their one all draw with Real Masters. Ends