Kwa-Thema – Gorogang Primary School’s U13 girls’ football team has once again been crowned the Gauteng East Kay Motsepe champions, successfully defending the title they won in 2025.

The tournament was held at Selpark Primary School, where the Kwa-Thema champions competed against the best U13 girls’ teams from across Gauteng East.

Sports coordinator Lazarus Malatji said retaining the title was a proud moment for the school.

“We feel very happy and honoured because we were the defending champions in this group since we won it in 2025, so winning it again was an honour,” he said.

Malatji attributed the team’s success to the players’ commitment, the support of teachers, the school principal and parents, as well as the contribution of Young Achievers United Ladies Football Club, where many of the players regularly train together.

“The commitment from the players contributed immensely to this success. The support from fellow teachers and the principal made a huge difference.

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“Most of these players belong to Young Achievers United Ladies, so they are used to playing together,” added Malatji.

The team enjoyed an outstanding tournament, winning all five of their matches and remaining unbeaten, conceding no goals.

They defeated Kgalema Primary 3-0 and Roseview Primary 2-0 before overcoming Payneville Primary 1-0 in the semi-finals.

In the final, they secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Michael Mkhwanazi Primary to lift the trophy.

“Preparation for the tournament included training three times a week in the weeks leading up to the competition, as well as friendly matches against boys’ teams to build confidence and mental strength,” he said.

According to Malatji, the players’ resilience and determination were evident throughout the tournament.

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“Even though some of the games were very tough, they showed character. They just did not want to lose,” he said.

He also praised the role played by the wider community.

“Without everyone’s involvement, we wouldn’t be where we are now. Teachers, parents and the community all played a huge role. Community members would even cheer the girls on from the streets, giving them courage and motivation,” added Malatji.

One of the team’s biggest achievements was scoring nine goals throughout the tournament while conceding none.

Looking ahead, Gorogang Primary hopes to continue its remarkable run by excelling at the regional stage and ultimately qualifying for the provincial and national competitions.

Malatji encouraged young girls with dreams of playing football to remain focused and never give up.

He also expressed gratitude to Coach Fando of Young Achievers United Ladies for his dedication in developing the players and wished him continued success.