Kempton Park FC hosts soccer trials for young players

Kempton Park FC (KPFC) held their U8 and U9 soccer trials at the Kempton Park Football Club on January 13.

Lerato Funani, the KPFC general secretary, said the soccer trials aimed to spot and recruit talented players.

“These sessions help coaches assess skills, team compatibility, and a player’s potential for growth.

“Trials are not just about soccer but also character and attitude. They provide a competitive environment to evaluate how players perform under pressure.”

Additionally, trials are a chance to discover hidden talents. In essence, soccer trials play a crucial role in identifying the right players for a team, contributing to its success and long-term development.

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Funani said their goals encompass on-field success, youth development, player welfare, community engagement, financial stability, infrastructure improvement, global recognition, and a commitment to fair play.

“We aim to be a respected and successful institution that excels in competitions and contributes positively to our community.

“Teaching young children sports is vital for their health, co-ordination, and social skills. Team involvement in sports promotes co-operation, teamwork, and discipline, offering a positive way to handle stress.”

Funani said learning good sportsmanship and forming life-long habits during childhood contribute to overall well-being.

“Sports participation is linked to improved academics and social integration. Introducing sports early acts preventatively, guiding children away from potential street involvement, and providing a comprehensive approach to development, making learning enjoyable and beneficial for them,” she said.

Coach Israel Siyakurima spoke to the Kempton Express.

“I am happy my players learn quickly and play according to their game plan. The challenge I face the most is that some children took a while to understand the game.

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“Every player must train, and the purpose of training is that they are strong enough. We teach them techniques such as passing the ball, dribbling and scoring.”

He said the team trains three days a week.

Siyakurima wants the team to play in the big leagues and win cups.

Phuthumani Jonisile, aka ‘Coach Shuger’, is a former Churundu United player from Zambia and the U8 premier team coach for 2024.

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He said he is proud of the club‘s improvement.

“The children showcase their talent and enjoy the game. They are improving day by day.”

He emphasised the importance of choosing the right players.

Jonisile said that last season, the team trained twice a week and this season, they added an extra day to allow coaches to spend more time with their players.

“Honestly, I’d say everyone I selected is the best. There is a little room for improvement, but my players are at the standard I wanted.

“The team I coach won the U7 league one after being promoted during the 2023 season from league 2.

“The team has done a tremendous job with the tireless effort of the parents and technical team, but most importantly, Mr Baqwa, my manager. He has done a great job to assemble the team and keep us organised and focused.”

He thanked the parents for supporting the players.