New football club aims to shake things up
The academy, based in Boksburg.
The Future of Africa Academy capped off its season with a Ballon d’Or-styled awards gala on November 25 at Fairview Function Venue in Rynfield AH.
The academy, based in Boksburg, honoured its best players, who looked dapper in their black suits, in this year’s Eastern Local Football Association (ELFA) season that ended in September.
Launched amid much hype last year, the chairperson and founder Mohammed Lawal said the club aimed to ‘shake up the establishment’ and ‘usher in a fresh era of soccer excellence’ in the region.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Future of Africa to the East Rand community and the wider soccer fraternity. The overwhelming support and enthusiasm shown by the soccer legends who honoured us with their presence underscore the potential of the Future of Africa Soccer Club in the soccer community.”
The event attracted more than 250 guests, including household names like Kaizer Chiefs legend Ntsie Maphike, Sundowns and Zimbabwean stalwart Peter Ndlovu and former Swallows, Pirates and Sundowns coach Victor Bondarenko.
Other influential figures at the event included player agent Glyn Binkin, Sundowns GM Yogesh Singh and iDiski Times journalist Lorenz Kohler.
“The unveiling of the club was not just an introduction, but a celebration of the success of our six divisions that participated in the ELFA.
“It was also a proclamation of the club’s commitment and intent to reshape the future of soccer on the East Rand, South Africa and ultimately on the global football stage,” Lawal said.
The player’s agent explained his philosophy is to develop passionate and committed players with the skills and ability to play football.
He added this has already caught the attention of many young footballers in South Africa, as well as at his academy in Nigeria.
“We are deeply committed to promoting youth development for underprivileged children from all walks of life. The Future of Africa Soccer Club serves as a platform for aspiring talents to flourish, regardless of their backgrounds.”
Lawal stated the awards ceremony reflected the club’s commitment to fostering talent, sportsmanship, and a culture of excellence.
“Our Ballon d’Or-styled award evening signified the beginning of an exciting journey toward fostering talent, promoting sportsmanship, and creating a soccer legacy that resonates with our community.
“Each award bestowed upon players, coaches, and staff was a testament to the dedication and hard work exhibited throughout the season,” he said.
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