The 2025 Discovery Alex Schools Football League ended in celebration at the Three Square Sports Field in Alexandra, where the Skeen Primary School boys and the Iphutheng Primary School girls were crowned champions after weeks of fierce competition.

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The finals, played on November 5, turned the township into a football festival. The day began with the girls’ third and fourth place play-off, followed by the boys’ play‑offs for the same positions. The energy increased with every whistle, leading up to the highly anticipated girls’ and boys’ finals, where the champions hoisted their trophies, and the top finalists received medals and soccer kits.

Since September, multiple local primary schools, including Ekukhanyisweni, Emfundisweni, Gordon, Ikage, Iphutheng, Ithute, Mc Weiler, Pholosho, Skeen, Dr Knack, Carter, and Zenzeleni, battled it out on Wednesdays. What raised the stakes in the competition is that, for learners, the league was not only about the medals and securing the first-place position; it was a chance to be spotted by scouts, and, possibly, take the first steps toward a football career.

Discovery ambassador Benson Mhlongo said the project is about giving children hope and confidence, while keeping them healthy. “If a learner shows talent, both on the field and in their studies, they can get opportunities, like scholarships.” He added that two players from last year’s tournament are now studying in Sandton on scholarships.

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The league’s project manager Raymond Marutha highlighted that the league is part of Discovery’s commitment to giving back. “Everything, from the soccer kits, facilities, referees, and meals, is already paid for. We are giving them a platform to enhance their careers.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Skeen Primary School boys football team lifts the 2025 Discovery Alex Schools League cup. The team claimed the title for the second time, cementing their place as one of Alexandra’s young football stars. #Skeenprimaryschool #alex ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Reflecting on the project’s impact, Marutha said some learners who played in the league have already progressed to the Sasol League, and are playing for the well-known local teams. Others have progressed to the ABC Motsepe League, and the HollywoodBets Super League, proving the tournament’s role as a launchpad for young footballers.

In a statement shared with Alex News, Celeste Williams, head of sponsorships at Discovery, said the programme goes beyond sponsoring soccer tournaments. Williams explained that it is about fostering community, promoting healthy living, and creating meaningful connections through exercise. “At Discovery, we believe healthy habits start young. School soccer encourages physical activity, teamwork, and resilience. By investing in school‑level football, we are nurturing future athletes and building healthier, more confident communities.”

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