Kempton Park FC’s Castle league side goes ‘famous’

Kempton Park Football Club’s Castle League team had a 3-0 win and a new sponsorship to celebrate on Friday evening.

The Famous Grouse was officially announced as the team’s new sponsor, and the players were seen wearing their newly sponsored gear during their fixture against Elspark United Football Club.

The Famous Grouse is one of Edrington Beam Suntory’s brands, and the brand’s representatives said the brand had a special focus on sport.

“Our focus is on rugby, soccer, golf and all other sporting codes because sport unites people, and it is where you often find people sitting together. As a business we saw it as an opportunity to identify one of the teams we could sponsor,” said Gugu Mnisi.

“When we saw the story behind the team and the club, we felt Kempton Park was the right team to sponsor. We have already sponsored a new home and an away kit. Going forward we will see what else it is they need and how we can assist.”

A cocktail bar with mixologists was set up on the evening to ensure the supporters quenched their thirst during the match.

Kempton Park FC’s chairman Basil Botha told Express he was humbled to have his club sponsored, and felt it would impact the team’s morale positively.

“One of our assistant coaches, Andile Mehlomakulu, had been chatting with The Famous Grouse’s brand manager for some time, and this led to the sponsorship,” said Botha.

“We are truly grateful and hope for a great relationship going forward. Support goes a long way, and having The Famous Grouse name on your gear helps remind the players to keep pushing. Together with the support from fans it will definitely see the boys going far.

“I have been chairman of the club for eight years, and when I took over as chairman my dream was to have the team play in the Castle League. This is their second year in the league and looking at their performance, I am overwhelmed and super proud.

“It has been a lot of hard work. Thank you to everyone from management, coaches, players and all for the hard work and support.”

Pride filled the faces of the players as they returned to field for the second half in their newly sponsored gear.

It was the team’s fourth game. They have three wins and one loss which translate to a good standing on the log.