SLFA recognises young players for excellence

The SAFA rep applauded the SLFA for its continued youth development.

January 31, 2024

Xoliswa Kali 1 minute read

The U11s at Barcelona Nation FC were fist on the list to receive their prize.

The Springs Local Football Association (SLFA) hosted a prize-giving ceremony on Saturday morning.
The purpose was to honour excelling teams in League A and B.

Mkhonza ‘Skheshe’ Mkhonzana, the SLFA chairperson, thanked everyone who participated in the league.

Mkhonza ‘Skheshe’ Mkhonzana, the chairperson of the SLFA, congratulated all the winners at the awards ceremony on Saturday.

“There would be no winners if there were no teams to compete with. So, those who do not get medals are just as important as those who do,” Mkhonzana said.

He also congratulated the teams promoted from League B to League A.

“The two leagues were created because we have many clubs., not because certain clubs are better than others,” he explained.

Mkhonzana also thanked the parents for their continued support.

“As a black community, we must do better and show up for our children. It is a lot of commitment, even financially, but it is worth it,” he added.

Mkhonzana appealed to the players to follow the correct procedures, especially when they have concerns and complaints.

Job Mchunu of SAFA Ekurhuleni said he was excited by the players’ talent in the association.
“Springs has always done well in terms of development. We can see the results as SAFA,” he said.
He encouraged the players to dream big.

Job Mchunu of SAFA Ekurhuleni honoured the players at the awards ceremony

“We must introduce our players to the national teams as soon as possible. And we must help develop the coaches as the players develop,” he said.

Miss Face of Africa’ South African finalist, Nthabiseng Sitela, encouraged the young players to enjoy being children.

“A lot of the time, we think we want to skip a stage and be older. But time will pass, and you will never have this period of your life again,” she said.

Miss Face of Africa’s South African finalist, Nthabiseng Sitela, was the guest speaker of the day.

Sitela also encouraged them to pursue their education.

“The combination of your talent and a solid education can open many doors.

“And be aware of how you present yourself. You can lose an opportunity because you did not carry yourself well,” she added.

Sparrows FA raked in the medals from every age category in League B and were the big winners on the day.

Ndoda Hlophe and Sidwell Chilwane of Sparrows FA graced the podium a few times to receive the team’s medals.
With them are Mkhonza Mkhonzana, Nthabisng Sitela and Job Mchunu.

League A winners:
U11 Jealous Down FC
U13 Ace Auto Ayoba
U15 Black Fighters FC
U17 Jealous Down FC
League B winners:
U11 Barcelona Nation FC
U13 Sparrows FA
U15 Dunnottar Mighty Warriors FC
U17 Sparrows FA.