R8.5 million for Ground One development

The Alex soccer scene will never be the same again after an injection of R8.5 million for the development of the historic Ground One, now a dust bowl passing for a stadium.

This after a petition to the city to have the ground attended to.

The ground nurtured many of Alex and national football luminaries, administrators, referees, PSL and national players and also leaders of note ranging from Dr Irvin Khoza, Sylvesdter Ndaba, Miamane Phiri, Shakes Kungoane, Brian Baloyi Obed Bapela who honed their football skills at the then-rough and stoney pitch.

The facility has suffered neglect over many years leading to its abandonment and invasion by vandals who made it home and dangerous for residents to pass by, especially at night for fear of being mugged.

The financial injection from Totalsports will support the reconstruction of the stadium’s facilities, the installation of artificial turf, and solar-powered floodlights to guarantee pitch usability at any time.

Speaking at the sod-turning ceremony attended by Safa, Totalsports, Region E officials, Alex’s old and current football officials, players and school children, Dr Danny Jordan commended Totalsports for coming to the rescue of Alex football lovers.

“The support has created a foundation for Alex to contribute in developing future stars of local football at all levels [for] both males and females…”

He said together with the local association, Safa’s aim is to develop facilities at grassroots level where there was no grass. He said with the use of the latest technology it would support sustainable sports development and create a legacy where hope can turn into reality and opportunity for the area’s youth.

Jordaan said the facilities will also be available for leadership development and other skills development opportunities.

Life president of the Alexandra Northrand Local Football Association, Moss Selolo said their prayers had been answered after knocking on many doors. “It’s a dream come true and we are grateful to Totalsports and Region E for the land. The new facility will be availed to crèches for toddlers to have a feel of a professional field and encourage those with football talent to consider it as a career.”

Tsidiso Tsotetsi, chairperson of the Alex Masters’ Soccer League, commended the support, which he said would assist in keeping kids off the streets while nurturing them for football stardom.

Mafika Morajane, secretary general of the association said the development, which will begin in May, has proved doubters wrong. “With the support of relevant government and city departments, the project will increase the number of sports facilities to five and be available evening and night for our sports development.”