Thokoza Football Association finds a sponsor
Phakwe Group aims to inject more resources into the Thokoza Local Football League (TLFL) as it officially took over sponsoring the league on October 2.
The ceremony event was at the Thokoza Youth Centre. The league that has been running in Thokoza for years has transitioned from the TLFL to the Phakwe Group Soccer League but is still under the authority of the Thokoza Local Football Association(TLFA).
The chairperson of TLFA Sifiso Chonco said the sponsorship helps them to make massive improvements in the league.
“As the association, we have been trying for years to get a sponsor for the league and I am happy we have finally got one. I believe the sponsorship will transform the league.
“We have been struggling with resources in the league, but such issues will be a thing of the past,” Chonco mentioned.
He added they had adversities in the league without the sponsorship.
“It is the right time to put our plans into practice and implement elements we did not have in the league before.
“The first element we will introduce is the women’s league next season. Budget constraints have been hindering our progress, but now that we have overcome the hurdle, we can focus on advancing the league.
“Our junior league is already taking place and ended on October 13 and on October 19, our Super League has started,” said Chonco.
The founder of Phakwe Group, Thabiso Tenyane, said as a person who was born and raised in Thokoza, he invested in the local league because he wanted to see it become one of the greatest leagues in Ekurhuleni.
“I want to make sure the local teams taking part in this league are taken care of. My goal is to see all players in the league being paid because it is normally sad to see players coming from disadvantaged backgrounds playing soccer with empty stomachs.
“How do you expect a hungry player to play to his ultimate best? And for that to change, I believe players must have a standard salary from the ranks of the domestic league, so that they can also be providers in their families,” Tenyane expressed.
He added he never thought he could ever return to his hometown to spark change and improve lives, but he is happy to achieve it.
“All the young people here today I want to share these positive words with all of you; nothing is impossible.
“By investing here in Thokoza, I am testing the waters, and if everything goes accordingly, I will invest in other leagues around Ekurhuleni,” Tenyane shared.
The former Bafana Bafana assistant coach, Khubo Zondo, who graced the event, mentioned the sponsorship would be a huge boost for the local league.
“When you receive sponsorship, it requires one to be professional. The Thokoza Local Football Association members must avoid misusing these funds, but ensure they improve the league. This is the right time for them to showcase what they can do,” Zondo outlined.
The event was graced by the Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, former Minister of Environmental Affairs Nomvula Mokonyane, former Kaizer Chiefs FC midfielder maestro Reneilwe Letsholonyane and other distinguished guests.
