Founder of You First FC talks about his love for the game
There is an unbreakable bond between the coaches, players and the crowd that makes this team such an incredible discourse community.
For Ayanda Manana (28), founder of You First FC, soccer is a sport of strategy and technique.
One has to enjoy the sport and be passionate.
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According to the soccer enthusiast, if you play or watch your team just for the sake of winning, you will not appreciate it as much.
“Soccer is a passionate sport. You First manages players, which prompted me to own my local football club because I wanted to help rising stars receive exposure and contracts in professional football.
“I chose kasi as the location for my team because there is a lot of potential in the township, and by exposing them to huge competitions, scouts will be present, they will be recognised by professional teams and they will end up playing for big teams.
“What sets the squad apart is its desire to compete in and win major tournaments around Gauteng, as well as to develop soccer players for the PSL.
“Under the ABC Motsepe League, Glad Africa League and PSL, the chairperson provides a platform for players to play professional football. The team’s mission is to bring individuals of many races, genders, nations and religions together,” said Manana.
Manana said forming a squad without financial support was difficult.
“I needed to transport players, buy food and recruit affiliates to participate in tournaments because we play in Thembisa, Soweto and other locations. I had to make financial sacrifices at home, but over time, we won the OR Tambo competition in Duduza and the LGBTQIA+ tournament in Thembisa, allowing us to save money for the forthcoming event. I raised money by ensuring I had a good team,” said Manana.
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