Intervention tournament kicks off
The tavern intervention soccer tournament has officially been launched.
The idea was launched by the Men for Development in South Africa (MEDSA), in partnership with South African Breweries (SAB).
Local teams, from across Tembisa, competed in the tournament, which was launched on Thursday last week. The launch was held at Rabie Ridge Hall and was attended by the local police, councillors and other stakeholders who participate in the tournament. The opening match was held at Reagile Primary School Sports Ground on Saturday last week. The finals will be held at the Rabie Ridge Stadium on December 1. When speaking during the event, MEDSA executive director Ozee Phiri said the soccer tournament is dedicated to 16 Days of Activism for no violence against women and children.
“The aim is to increase men’s participation on issues of women and children abuse. The theme of the soccer tournament is ‘Combating gender violence through soccer’. The initiative was organised in 2008 as a special partnership project between MEDSA and SAB,” he said.
Phiri added that they are holding workshops for men, focusing on issues like the responsible consumption of alcohol, preventing gender-based violence and HIV/AIDS, among others. The winning champions will go home with R15 000 in cash, medals and a trophy, the runner-ups will go home with R10 000 in cash, medals and soccer kit. Those who place third in the competition will go home with R5000 in cash, medals and a trophy. The teams participating in the tournament are: Red Devils FC, Allandale FC, The Rock FC, Ebony FC, Ivory Park Association FC, Madisha United FC, Super Stars FC and Bushy Real Stars FC. The soccer tournament is supported by members of the Community Policing Forum (CPF), police officials, youth desks and representatives from the local sports and recreation department.
