Naturena Football League presents Youth Day Soccer Tournament

Naturena was abuzz when the Naturena Football League hosted a landmark Youth Day Soccer Tournament from June 14 to 16 at Naturena Sports Grounds.

National icon Portia Modise, who not only participated in the matches but also helped raise awareness for the league, graced the event.

Telkom was also approached as a potential sponsor.

One organiser, Lehlohonolo Tshishonga, said that despite the passion and dedication, the league continues to operate without formal funding or resources. The teams lack basic sports equipment, and the local soccer field urgently needs repair.

In the heart of Naturena, a powerful movement has been growing, not born from privilege or funding, but from passion, resilience, and community spirit.

The Naturena Football League, founded by Tshishonga, Neo Matshogo and Bra Chille, began as a dream with only two teams. Today, that dream has grown into a full-blown community league with nine active teams, vibrant tournaments, and a youth-driven mission to bring positive change through sport.

The teams are Team Vendas, Porto, NLFC, Sechaba FC, Richard XI, 18 Quality, Kaizer United, 21 Jump Street, and Super 11. As part of the Naturena Football League, they play matches every Sunday.

“From humble beginnings, these founding members financed every tournament and event from their own pockets, laying a foundation not just for a league but for something greater,” said Tshishonga.

Naturena Sports and Recreation is a community organisation focused on creating opportunities for young people through sport.

“As the league expanded, Thato Monareng from Sechaba FC brought his team and visionary ideas. He was followed by Gift Makhubu from Richard XI, and later by community supporters George Ramela and Lefa ‘Raul’ Dlamini, who all added strength to the vision,” said Tshishonga.

“We came this far on our own, but know we can do so much more. Our goal is to grow beyond football, to expand into other sports, create safe spaces for youth, and uplift our community. But we need help,” said co-founder Tshishonga.

The Naturena Football League is calling on private sponsors, government departments, community leaders, and sports development organisations to support their cause. Investment in this league is an investment in the future of Naturena’s youth.

“Unfortunately, many community leaders have remained silent, offering little to no support. Yet the spirit of Naturena has never been more alive, powered by the youth, for the youth. Beyond the games, Naturena has become a hub of community activity and youth empowerment,” he said.

For more information on how to donate, partner, or sponsor the Naturena Football League, contact Tshishonga at tshishongalee122@gmail.com or 073 378 0045.

Alternatively, follow them on Instagram @NaturenaSportsRecreation.