Author: sipongco

Blue Crane Soccer Academy were crowned champions of the second edition of Cookhouse’s Gender-Based Violence Soccer Tournament, edging out Mighty Boys 4-3 on penalty kicks after the teams failed to score in the regulation time on Sunday.

The winners enjoyed a spectacular run to the gold match, beginning with a 2-1 victory over the hosts, Bongweni United, in their first match.

On the other hand, Mighty Boys, endured a tough challenge from City Spurs, playing to a 3-3 draw before advancing to the next round with a 4-2 win from the penalty spot.

Mighty Boys won in a penalty shootout in the semis again, but their luck ran out in the title-decider as Blue Crane Soccer Academy secured the title from the spot.

The tournament, which was held at the Bongweni Location on the 25th and 26th of November, featured eight teams, including two women’s teams. Cookhouse Academy convincingly defeated Eleven Stars 4-1 to be crowned the winners of the first edition of the women’s event.

Over the two days of intense competition, a light was shone on the issue of gender-based violence in the Bongweni Location. Through football, the organisers worked to educate the community about the scourge of gender-based violence, and to assist them to combat it.

Full Results 

Youth Cosmos 2-4 Goal Fighters
Blue Crane FC 1-0 Gugulethu Crusaders
Bongweni United 1-2 Blue Crane Soccer Academy
City Spurs 3 (2)-(4) 3 Mighty Boys

Semifinals 

Goal Fighters 1-2 Blue Crane Soccer Academy
Blue Crane FC 1 (4)-(5) 1 Mighty Boys

Final

Blue Crane Soccer Academy 0 (4)-(3) 0 Mighty Boys.

Ladies’ Final

Cookhouse Academy 4-1 Eleven Stars

One of South Africa’s premier centres for the development of young talent, the Ubuntu Football Academy, will represent the South African boys’ national team at the forthcoming CAF African Schools Football Championships (COSAFA Qualifiers) to be held in Zimbabwe from the 14th to the 16th of December.

Ubuntu Football Academy will be led by the highly experienced Dave Waters, the team’s technical director and the author of the Dual Dream, an interesting and informative book that takes a deep dive “through statistics, logical reasoning and case studies”.

Waters said his book identifies the key reasons why the vast majority of South African academy players do not have sustained professional careers. “It also investigates many misconceptions about the opportunities that exist, and highlights some really dangerous pitfalls to avoid,” he said.

This week, SuperSport Schools sat down with Waters to learn more about his involvement in youth football, his love for the game, and the Ubuntu Football Academy’s preparations for the CAF African Schools Football Championships, Cosafa qualifiers.

His football journey in South Africa began in 2006, when Waters moved from the United Kingdom.

In 2010, when Waters was working at the ASD Academy in Cape Town, he helped develop dedicated, highly talented and hardworking young players, like Ayanda Patosi (Foolad) and Mihlali Mayambela (Aris Limassol), whose family has made a success of pursuing the beautiful game abroad.

Then, in 2015, after years of being involved in women’s football, he joined the Ubuntu Football Academy.

Working with the youth has been a rewarding journey, Waters said. However, he added, it also comes with its fair share of frustrations, especially witnessing talented players who could have achieved far greater things in life falling short.

Even so, Waters said it is important to reflect on his past work and that of the academy to recognise what they have achieved as a collective. Witnessing former players of Ubuntu thriving in life is of the utmost importance to him, regardless of the level of football they’re currently playing at.

Waters identified his charges becoming good fathers and husbands, being good brothers and making positive contributions to society, as vitally important to him. These are the aspects of his work at the academy from which he derives fulfilment when he reflects on the players who have passed through it.

One of the bigger challenges, he shared, was how to develop and invest in young players who have experienced trauma. “I mean trauma is quite rife in South Africa, sexual abuse, violence, alcohol,” he explained. “In most cases you will find out that these are things that the kids are witnessing, and it becomes a challenge for us.

“We find ourselves asking how we unearth potential that is being held back by a pattern of negative stuff or things that impact the life of young people. This is something that we have really looked into deeply at the Ubuntu Football Academy, and hopefully we can try and grow in that aspect, as we help these young men to become better and positive men in the near future.”

CAF African Schools Football, Cosafa Qualifiers Schools: “We are confident in ourselves”

Looking ahead to the trip to Zimbabwe, Waters said it was inspiring, encouraging, an honour and a privilege for the Ubuntu Football Academy to represent South Africa in the CAF African Schools Football Championships.

“We are very excited and feel very honoured to represent South Africa on the biggest stage of development football on the continent. Of course, we really don’t know what’s in store for us. But we are confident in who we are, and we know we deserve to play at this level.”

Waters said preparing for the CAF African Schools Champs has been challenging, with new rules and a new format asking different questions of his players. However, his charges would not shy away from those challenges.

“Playing nine-a-side on a tiny field with tiny goals has its challenges, and we had to navigate our way through this, competing against schools at the provincial and national level.”

Through the experience, Waters said, the team has learned a lot and grown its relationships on and off the field.

He described the national qualifying experience as both an administrative and football challenge, which required the players to adapt to different scenarios quickly.

“Because of the unknowns going into this competition, we had to strike a balance mentally and physically to ensure our boys are fresh, especially now that they have just come out of exams.”

The Academy’s success

The success of the academy is not necessarily driven by on-field results, Waters said. Ubuntu’s mission is to mentor and educate the next generation of great African leaders, society-changers, and footballers. He explained: “Our goal is to provide holistic mentorship to every child, developing them into leaders, professional footballers, and to help them reach their academic potential.”

Waters said about 22 players from Ubuntu have been awarded academic scholarships in the USA, while over 25 players have secured professional contracts with clubs in South Africa and overseas.

“In total 28 players have been selected for junior national team call-ups, with Jesse Donn (SuperSport United), Luke Fleurs (Kaizer Chiefs) and Antonio van Wyk (Stellenbosch FC) also receiving call-ups for senior South Africa,” he shared.

“Additionally, Munashe Garanga has showcased his skills in the UEFA Europa League this season, representing Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol.

“Moreover, five of our current players have made us proud by participating in the Pan-African Schools Championships, and they have been recently summoned up to the South African u15 national team training camp.”

After a thrilling showdown at Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena on Sunday, David Mathebula‘s Chiefs’ u19 team advanced to the semifinals of the Gauteng Development League (GDL) Youth Cup.

They secured a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win over Highlands Park after the rivals had played to a hard-fought 1-1 draw in regulation time.

The game of the week was undoubtedly the one that everyone was waiting for. Some had even termed it “the final before the final”.

From the first minute of the contest, both teams exhibited a hunger to take it to their challengers, with the high-flying clubs eager to exert their dominance over the opposition.

The Phefeni Glamour Boys, playing on their home ground, quickly found their rhythm. GDL champions, Highlands Park, on the other hand, adopted a physical approach and made their presence known.

The young referee, Tseliso Rapuleng, from Soweto, was called to task, with fans, players and coaches all making their voices heard. Rapuleng, however, showed he was the right man for the big occasion, making some tough decisions and dishing out several yellow cards to the players and coaches alike.

The stalemate was broken early on when Highlands Park took the lead after Keagile Chaane converted a rebound from a penalty shot by Mokoena Napthali, which had been saved.

Despite being on the backfoot, Chiefs kept their shape at the back and their attacking intent, at the other end of the field, was unfaltering.

It was 1-0 to Highlands Park at the break, but there was no let-up when the second half kicked off, as the combatants continued to show why they are the two best teams in the league. Chiefs pressed for an equaliser and the Lions of the North pressed for a second goal to establish a cushion.

Both created opportunities, but for a long time neither found a finish. Kaizer Chiefs were awarded a penalty, but they were unable to level matters. It looked as if it would be Highlands Park’s day. However, with only seconds remaining on the clock, Phakamani Jwara, the Chiefs’ captain, equalised to take the contest to penalties.

After the game, coach David Mathebula, said his players knew that playing Highlands Park would not be an easy task. They had been crowned league champions for a reason.

Mathebula said one of the challenges Chiefs faced in the lead-up to the game was a lack of training time because the players were writing exams, although, he admitted, Highlands Park must have faced the same scenario. He said this meant they were not at their best.

Coach Mathebula also reserved special praise for Manqoba “Pelembe” Ozoemena for demonstrating strong character despite his young age. It was ‘Pelembe’ who missed a crucial penalty in the game, but he stepped up in the penalty shootout to convert from the spot when given a second opportunity.

“That’s the kind of mentality we need to instil in our boys,” Mathebula said. “When you make a mistake, don’t dwell on it. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. That’s how you learn and get better as a player, and players for Kaizer Chiefs requires such strength and positivity towards the game.”

Even though the Lions of the North lost, they still had their most loyal supporter, superfan Thato Chai, the father of Lindokuhle and Ntando, who both play for Highlands Park, roaring on encouragement.

Chai is an ever-present, decked out in a red Highlands Park outfit, with team flag in hand, at every single match.

Reflecting on the beautiful game, Chai said he also played football when he was younger, and he understands the importance of being supported. “I told myself I would do the same, not just for my young boys but for other kids as well, when the time comes.

“Moral support is everything in this game. Football is a psychological game. When there is someone acknowledging and cheering for you, it is to excel,” he said.

Chai also commended SuperSport Schools for providing a platform to showcase talented young footballers. “For the first time, football at development age is now more accessible on a larger scale. The kids now have confidence, and the thought of appearing on TV gives them an extra push.”

He also encouraged parents to continue showing their support for their children. It makes an amazing impact on youngsters when they see their parents providing their backing at stadiums, he concluded.

Full results: Quarterfinals

Kaizer Chiefs 1 (5) – 1 (4) Highlands Park
TS Galaxy vs Joburg City (2-0)
Mamelodi Sundowns vs Tuks (2-1)
NWU Vaal vs School of Excellence (1-0)

The town of Graaff-Reinet is abuzz with anticipation as the second edition of the Montego Cares u9 Champs 4 Change Soccer Tournament springs into action on Friday.

Following a successful inaugural tournament in 2022, which made a significant impact on raising awareness and promoting positive change, the tournament organisers have continued to grow their message and have inspired more young athletes and community members to join the cause.

The extraordinary event not only highlights the skill and passion of young soccer players but also acts as a medium to bring attention to the urgent matter of violence against women and young girls.

With 120 boys and girls below the age of nine participating, the tournament strives to foster unity within the community and harness the power of sports as a catalyst for societal transformation, not only in Graaff-Reinet but also in its surrounding areas.

Using Sports to Raise Awareness 

Sports have always been a powerful tool in bringing people together and breaking down barriers. Karlien De Wet, Montego Pet Nutrition’s Corporate Social Responsibility Coordinator, said the u9 Champs 4 Change Soccer Tournament utilises the power of the game to impact on an important social issue.

She pointed out that the tournament is held during the 16 Days of Activism against the Abuse of Women and Children, and it aims to provide a platform to engage young athletes, their families, and the community in important conversations.

The Montego Cares u9 Champs 4 Change tournament also focuses on youth empowerment. “Not only do the young soccer players get to display their talent on the field, but they also get an opportunity to learn about the importance of respect, equality, and preventing violence against women and young girls.”

De Wet said the event will be graced by the presence of Dianne Bertram, a social worker, based in Graaff-Reinet, who will speak to the children before the games begin about the significance of gender equality and healthy relationships. “By instilling these values early on, the organisers hope to create a generation of socially conscious individuals, who will advocate for change in their communities.”

Through the tournament, the youth will be encouraged to embrace teamwork, fair play and respect for all, regardless of their gender, through the medium of sports.

Also, the tournament does not prioritise only the players. It cultivates a sense of unity within the community. Families, friends and supporters are expected to come through to cheer on the young athletes, thus creating a warm and positive environment.

Participating teams

1. Union Prep Schools Boys
2. Goats FC Mixed 1
3. Goats FC Mixed 2
4. Jose Mourinho FC Girls
5. Jose Mourinho FC Boys
6. Dangerous Darkies FC Boys
7. Birds United FC Mixed
8. Birds United FC Boys
9. Isibane Primary Mixed
10. Mountain View FC Boys
11. Thembalisizwe Primary Boys
12. Thembalisizwe Primary

The highly anticipated 2nd edition of the Gender-based Violence (GBV) Soccer Tournament is set to take place this coming weekend, 25th-26th of November, at the Bongweni Location in Cookhouse.

The event, which is being hosted by the Cookhouse Sustainable Community Development Forum (CSCDF), features 10 teams – eight men’s and two women’s – who will be competing for the title of champions.

The first edition of the tournament was hosted in November 2022. Following its success, the Cookhouse Wind Farm chose to continue its partnership with the CSCDF and return with a second instalment of the event.

The Chairman of the CSCDF, Fezekile Cotani, recognised an urgent need to address ongoing issues of gender-based violence in the community and its surroundings.

Cotani said most women in the surrounding areas have been subjected to abusive relationships due to high levels of alcoholism among their male counterparts.

“To raise awareness and to promote a culture of respect and equality, we have decided to host the Gender-Based Violence tournament and use the popular sport of soccer to shine the spotlight on this scourge”, he said.

The CSCDF, with its partner Cookhouse Wind Farm, is committed to making a positive impact and to fostering lasting change in the lives of livelihoods affected by Gender-based violence.

“Addressing these problems is paramount in creating a safer, more equal community where GBV is not tolerated. The GBV Soccer tournament aims to raise awareness but also provide opportunities for education, empowerment and community engagement. By doing so, we hope to contribute to a society where everyone can live freely from the fear of violence and discrimination”, Cotani wrote.

SuperSport Schools will be streaming the tournament’s games, so if you can’t make it to the grounds at the Bongweni sports field, you can watch them on the SuperSport Schools App or channel 216 on DStv. The venue was selected for its central location and accessibility to competing teams and fans of the beautiful game.

For the first time, in 2023, two women’s teams will be in action.

PURPOSE

“The purpose of the GBV Soccer tournament is to raise awareness about gender-based violence and to promote a culture of respect, equality and non-violence within our communities,” Cotani said. “Through this event, we aim to aim to achieve a number of objectives: promote gender equality, empower survivors of gender-based violence, foster community engagement, collaborate with stakeholders, and raise funds for GBV support services. Through these objectives, we envision creating a safer, more supportive and inclusive community.”

Added Attractions

The GBV soccer tournament will be preceded by a Gala Dinner facilitated by Noloyiso Bonga, a sports presenter on Umhlobo Wenene FM. Tru-FM radio personalities, Slujah Bunu, who presents the Lunch Time Shandis, and Luyolo Mkalipi, a sports presenter of TruBreakfast show, will also attend the event to show their support.

Entrepreneur and author, Luvuyo “Vovo” Ngxiki, will be the keynote speaker at the Gala Dinner.

CSCDF Chairman Fezekile Cotani said: “This exciting event will create 25 job opportunities for residents, fostering economic empowerment within the community. Vendors will have an opportunity to sell their products on the field, a further boost to the local economy.”

Fixtures

Match 1: 10:00

Youth Cosmos vs Goal Fighters

Match 2: 12:00

Blue Crane FC vs Crusaders FC

Match 3: 14:00

Bongweni United vs Blue Crane Soccer Academy

Match 4: 16:00

City Spurs vs Mighty Boys

 

 

Chadley Hargreaves, Northwood‘s basketball captain, wants nothing more than a move to the USA, where he dreams of earning an opportunity to compete with the best players in the world. It’s his dream and ultimate ambition to take his talent to the highest level of the game.

From as early as when he was in the eighth grade, he noticed that he was a step ahead of his peers. He credits his brother for teaching him and challenging him to strive to improve. It was also in the eighth grade that he realized he could go far in the sport.

Chadley enjoyed the game, and because of that enjoyment it came easily to him, and it enabled him to play with freedom and to express himself.

But, as with any other sport, there are setbacks, and he has had to deal with those, too. He recalled one such moment in the final of the u18 SA National Basketball Championships, held in Bloemfontein in July.

He fouled out of the game with only two points to his name, which was a huge disappointment because he is a shooter. Also, for someone who had been scoring 18-20 points per game, this stung. The KZN team had been dominant and was winning its games by 40 to 50 points.

He recounted, too, missing an open lay-up, which he felt would have changed the complexion of the contest.

However, moments like those are also moments in which lessons can be learned. One can’t afford to dwell on missed opportunities, Chadley said, when your team needs you to show up and show out. Disappointments like those have taught him how to handle pressure in big games.

His career has already included some impressive highs, which inspires him to keep pushing the boundaries, believing he has it in him to make it as a professional basketballer.

One of those highlights was playing for the University of the Witwatersrand. “I might be wrong,” he acknowledged, “but I don’t think any school kid has ever had the chance to play for the university basketball team. It was truly inspiring, and it showed me that I have something inside.”

It was during the prestigious St John’s Basketball Tournament that he was approached by the coach of the Wits’ team. He said the coach thought that he was in matric, and he wanted him to come to Wits the following year and play for them.

“After I got in touch with them a few months later through their Instagram page, they said they’d keep in touch with me, and they did. Later on, I found myself representing them at the Ashraf Basketball Tournament.”

Playing at that level was challenging, Hargreaves admitted, because the players were “very physical”. That prompted him to work on his physicality and to endeavour to understand other aspects of the game.

Another high point of his career was making the SA Schools team after the SA u18 National Basketball Champs. He had fouled out early in the final, so he was a little surprised that he had been named to the All-Star team.

He works tirelessly on his ball handling and shooting skills and, said Hargreaves, he has learned a lot from his coaches and his teammates about discipline and leadership. His team has helped him become a better captain day by day.

Hargreaves is a student of the game, always ready to learn from others, and he mentioned his Northwood Knights’ teammate, Lusanda Hlongwane, as someone who has helped him to develop his skills. Not many people know Lusanda, “but they will, believe me,” he said.

Another player that he has learned from is Ben Kabuya, an old boy, who was a standout performer for Northwood before Covid-19 struck down the 2020 season. “Defending Ben on the court has been one of my toughest challenges because he’s a fast player,” Hargreaves said.

Speed is one of the weaknesses that he has identified in his own game. But he is a physical player, so his lack of top-end speed does not bother him too much. It is something, though, that he admitted he needs to work on, which playing against players like Kabuya has taught him.

Basketball is growing in South Africa, Hargreaves said, and he urged schools to introduce it to their learners at an earlier age. An introduction in grade eight is a big disadvantage, he reckoned. If basketball was given the attention that some of the other sports enjoy, it would benefit immensely.

Finally, he offered some advice to those just starting out in the game. He said they should play with freedom and enjoy themselves on the court. Basketball is competitive, but it is supposed to be fun, and the moment people start having fun playing it, it will come easily to them.

Remember Elite Sports Academy’s (RESA) Technical Director Thulani Mthimkulu is among a group of elite coaches currently attending a prestigious CAF A Licence coaching course.

Joining Mthimkhulu at the South African Football Association‘s (SAFA) Nasrec headquarters are some of the country’s most experienced and best-known Premier Soccer League coaches, including Gavin Hunt of SuperSport United FC, Steve Barker of Stellenbosch FC, and Eric Tinkler, Cape Town City‘s head coach.

Well-travelled former Bafana Bafana midfielder Godfrey Sapula is also among the invitees.

It has been a long time since SAFA hosted a course of this nature, and only 25 coaches were invited for this one. The course is divided into four phases, the first of which is already underway and runs until 20 November. Its full duration, however, is eight months.

Mthimkulu’s presence will add big value to the Vereeniging-based RESA, which has endured an interesting rollercoaster ride in its Gauteng Development League participation.

“In our first year of participation in the GDL, we finished 3rd in the B-stream, and in the second year we came out on top by 30 points,” Xolani Mathumbo, the Chairman of RESA, said earlier this year.

Historically, RESA has seen some of its players become professional footballers, both in South Africa and abroad. Mduduzi Mdantsane, for example, now plays for the Soweto giants, Kaizer Chiefs, while Calvin Kadi earned himself a spell with Portuguese club, Portimonense in 2010.

With Mthimkhulu’s participation in the elite coaching course, RESA Chairman Mathumbo will be encouraged and confident that his academy can continue to provide a strong platform for the development of footballers in the Vaal Triangle – Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging, Sasolburg – region.

CAF A Licence Course attendees

1. Alliance Kubayi
2. Alex Zondi
3. Emanuel Nyathi
4. Boebie Solomons
5. Michael Manzini
6. Moses Weah
7. Dennis Makinka
8. Eric Tinkler
9. Gavin Hunt
10. Godfrey Sapula
11. Grant de Smidt
12. Jabulani Mendu
13. Kabelo Malapane
14. Lunga Ngwane
15. Marcus Mashilo
16. Monde Hlatshwayo
17. Nkosana Mabhena
18. Pogiso Makhoye
19. Johannes Masilo
20. Steve Barker
21. Tiro Van Rooyen
22. Tlisane Motaung
23. Thulani Mthimkulu
24. Wesley Sergel
25. Zane Ryklief

 

Only months after FIFA lifted its ban on Zimbabwe and gave the country the green light to once again participate in international competition, the southern African nation is set to host the CAF African Schools Football Championship, COSAFA Qualifiers, from the 14th to the 16th of December.

In a big boost for Zimbabwean football, FIFA lifted its suspension just in time for the World Cup qualifiers, and that move also paved the way for the 2nd edition of the CAF African Schools Championship, COSAFA qualifiers to be hosted in the country.

Zimbabwe had been removed from international competition as a result of alleged government interference in the running of the Zimbabwe Football Association.

FIFA vigorously enforces its rule against governmental interference in the beautiful game and rejects any attempts at the sport being used as a political tool.

Now the stage is set for Zimbabwe to host the most competitive schools’ football competition on the African continent.

In the inaugural season of the CAF African Schools Championship, over 400 000 boys and 20 000 girls from across the continent did battle to secure a place in the competition’s final in Durban in April. There, Fountain Gate of Tanzania and Ben Sekou of Guinea were crowned the boys’ and girls’ champions respectively,

COSAFA has since revealed that the competition is getting bigger and better every year, and the qualifiers for this year’s u15 edition have just been announced. Eleven COSAFA members will be sending boys’ and girls’ teams to compete in the competition with the hope of making it to the continental finals in 2024.

The field will be bolstered by teams from Angola and Botswana, as well as sides from Madagascar and Malawi. They’ll be joined by representatives from Mozambique and Namibia.

This marks a big leap forward from the first edition of the event, which was held in Malawi last October, where South Africa’s Edendale Technical won the girls’ competition, which consisted of just six teams.

The draw for December’s matches will be held in Harare shortly before the event kicks off.

Media Statement from the COSAFA President, President Artur de Almeida e Silva

COSAFA President Artur de Almeida e Silva said the competition will be a major stepping stone for those boys and girls who dream of playing football professionally. “This is much more than a schools’ competition. It is a first introduction to international football for the vast majority of these players,” he said. “The u15 age group category is a crucial one and gives these young players a taste of what it takes to challenge their peers in the region.

“We applaud CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe for his vision in introducing this vital competition and will build on the success of the last competition, where we also were honoured to host the continental finals.

“We wish all the competing teams the best of luck and thank the Zimbabwe Football Association for agreeing to play host this year, and all other stakeholders involved.”

Zimbabwe Football Association Chairperson Lincoln Mutasa said the country is ready to welcome all the teams to Harare.

“We are delighted to be back competing on the international scene again,” he stated. “We couldn’t ask for a better way to start the new chapter than to host the CAF African Schools Football Championship | COSAFA Qualifier, Zimbabwe 2023.

“School-going boys and girls are the bedrock of our vision to create competitive generational teams. We are grateful to CAF and COSAFA for giving us the honour to host the second edition.

“This tournament gives a lot of football stakeholders encouragement that indeed our football is on the right development track. The participants will be better footballers after the competition, because previously they had no opportunity to play competitive national team games.

“This is the opportunity of a lifetime for us as a country, for our boys and girls who did not participate in the inaugural edition. After this tournament, we are confident that everyone will begin to treasure schools’’ football because it has great possibilities for the young boys and girls who previously did not have opportunities to play competitive matches.”

Maritzburg College’s 1st soccer team of 2023 will be remembered as one of the school’s finest sides to have graced the football pitch. Week in and week out they delivered memorable performances, leading to three titles and memories to last a lifetime.

Playing a quick passing, possession type of game, in the mould of Barcelona, the team benefitted from strong leadership on and off the pitch.

Captain Mateo Horstead commanded the midfield and regularly sliced open the opposition with his incisive passing, while forward Mazithi Qasha was prolific in front of goal. At the back, the College defence played with assurance and calm confidence.

They didn’t win every tournament they contested, and bowed out early in the Wildeklawer Soccer Tournament, but the College boys retained belief in themselves throughout, bouncing back with their trust in one another undiminished.

Perhaps their biggest cheerleader and a source of strength for the team was Maritzburg College’s Director of Soccer, Nic Haswell, who hails from a well-known football family. Haswell promised dominance from his players, and they delivered on his promise.

College’s Michael Dibben (one of the best football commentators on SuperSport Schools) wrote: “This 1st XI’s players have gone from strength to strength and they’ve cemented their place as one of, if not the best team, in the 160 years of Maritzburg College.”

Considering the quality of players that have passed through the school, that is high praise indeed.

The team, which was coached by Maritzburg College old boy and former pro footballer, Chemon Petersen, the son of legendary Moroka Swallows’ striker Calvin Petersen, captured the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands FA Cup for the first time in the school’s history in September. Goals from Mateo Horstead, Ilunga Kayembe and Thando Hlophe sealed a 3-2 victory for College over Carter High in a scintillating final played at Hilton College.

The red, black and white had won their first trophy of the 2023 season in May when they annexed the KZN High Schools Inland Football League title, defeating Linpark 1-0 in the final. They followed that up with the Primo Big 10 title in August, beating Glenwood 1-0 to claim the honours after two days of intense competition. The FA Cup victory over Carter High completed the treble. 

College’s dominance was on full display during their run to the FA Cup title. They opened their account with an 8-0 thumping of St Nicholas, with striker Grayson Mentory netting four times in the win. He would go on to finish as the tournament’s top goal-scorer with seven goals.

Horstead and company delivered another impressive performance in the semi-finals, overrunning Alexandra High School 5-1.

Demonstrating how well-balanced the team was, there was also recognition of their defensive efforts when College shot-stopper CJ Sukraj was named the goalkeeper of the tournament.

Against St Nicholas, he pulled off a stunning penalty save to keep his side 2-0 in front.

Summing up the season, Maritzburg College Director of Soccer, Nic Haswell, said he was extremely proud of what the 2023 1st team achieved. They put in plenty of hard work and the treble was a deserved reward for their efforts, he reckoned.

Full Maritzburg College Soccer Team

1 CJ Sukraj
2 T Hlophe
3 AP Ngcobo
4 O Mkhwanazi
5 L Matshoge
6 T Myeni
7 P Khuzwayo
8 S Mncwabe
9 J Kayembe
10 M Qasha
11 Z Makangela
12 B Middleton
13 G Mentory
14 M Horstead (C)
15 O Thabethe
16 M Mncwabe
17 A Ngcobo
18 M Momple
19 P Schutte
20 J Marais
21 O Mqadi
22 A Cele
23 S Zulu
24 T Madzimure

In 2023, the East London High School Soccer League experienced encouraging growth as a handful of teams put themselves in position for a run at the title. After a successful year, SuperSport Schools sat down with one of the league administrators, Matthew Geach, to learn more about what’s in store for 2024 and to take a look back on a hard-fought season.

“Looking back on the conclusion of the 2023 East London High School Soccer League’s season, the main thing that helped us to have a successful season was that all the participating teams were driven with ambitions to do well and claim the league crown for themselves,” Geach said.

Stutterheim High School, led by their captain Nanga Jodi, who scored a stunner on the final day against one of the favourites, Dale College, was crowned the champions.

For most of the season, five teams were in the race for the league honours: Stutterheim, Dale College, who were the defending champions, their traditional rivals, Selborne College, who finished third in 2022, and two newcomers, the Centre of Excellence and Cathcart.

Towards the end of the campaign, a couple of Dale College games determined the winners. The school from Qonce had two matches to play, one against Selborne College and the other against Stutterheim, and they needed four points to secure the title.

A draw away to Selborne in their second last match put Dale under heavy pressure to get a win against Stutterheim in their last outing. Stutterheim, meanwhile, needed only a point to claim the title. In the end, they edged out Dale by a goal to nil to win the league for the first time in the school’s history.

“For 2024, we plan to kick off the season in March, to get ahead of the June and September exams, as most schools turn their focus to academics during those their times,” Geach said.

“We are also looking forward to welcoming West Bank High School to the league. They’re coming across from one of the other league streams, where they finished third in the league and third in the Knockout Cup, losing out to Ebenezer Majombozi High School in the semi-finals, who were the eventual winners of the Knockout Cup after beating Dale College in the final.”

The development of girls’ football at the various high schools in the East London High School Soccer League will also receive attention in 2024, with the focus on providing them with a well-structured environment, much like the boys’ competition.

“It is our aim to provide a platform for avid footballers to showcase their talents, provide schools with structured competitions, and give students avenues to pursue careers in the sport,” Geach said.

“Following a very successful year, we are looking to grow and provide more opportunities for the schools involved within our league streams.”