Birch Acres Football Club nurtures talent

Birch Acres Football Club is determined to nurture young talent.

Established in 1984, the club was founded by the Birch Acres community to encourage local children to take part in sports, particularly football.

Birch Acres FC chairperson, Botong Lencoe spoke to the Kempton Express.

“In our team, our young ones are getting solid backing from parents, but when it comes to our older players chasing that soccer dream to become professionals, it’s a bit of a struggle when it comes to finances.

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“BAFC is calling for the local businesses to come together, helping these older talents with fees and sponsorships to kick it up a notch,” he said.

Lencoe added that BAFC coaches want to upskill themselves because they are volunteers who share a passion for the game and the young players.

“Our fields are thirsty for more than just soccer.

“We’re dreaming of netball, cricket, and BAFC being the spot where our children in the community can play and develop different skills all year round.

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“It’s a call for support, not just for the game but for the entire sports community,” he said.

He further explained that young people participating in sports receive numerous benefits, including physical fitness, teamwork, discipline and improved mental well-being.

“Sports allow children to belong and be part of a greater community outside of their families and schools.

“We have witnessed players learning valuable lessons and values through the game such as being able to win gracefully, and knowing to get up even after you’ve failed.”

Lencoe believes that children participating in sports activities foster social skills, resilience, and a sense of achievement, contributing to overall personal development.

Moreover, sports provide a positive outlet for energy, reducing the risk of bad lifestyles and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

This allows players to develop lifelong habits.

“I want to encourage the youngsters we have in our teams to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow.

“Stay dedicated to honing your skills, be open to feedback, and maintain a positive attitude.

“Teamwork is key, so communicate effectively and support your teammates.

“Remember, it’s not just about the game; it’s about personal development and building lasting connections.

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“Keep dreaming big, work hard, and enjoy the journey in the world of sports development.”

Lencoe added that the dreams are expansive, reaching beyond soccer fields.

The team envisions not only the growth of their field and the creation of a clubhouse but also a dedicated focus on developing their boys into soccer stars and great leaders of the future.

“We realise that skills gained through BAFC contribute to these players becoming great leaders and upstanding citizens.

“Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of background, can play a sport.

“We want BAFC to be more than a soccer haven, we want it to be a gathering place for the entire community.

“We want it to be a place where families meet, bonds are forged, and everyone grows through the wonderful world of sports.”

Nurturing talent is at the heart of Birch Acres FC’s vision.

The team emphasises that at the developmental stage, it’s not about winning or losing but about growing.

BAFC aims to be a nurturing ground where young talents can flourish, honing their skills and building a strong foundation for their soccer journey.

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“Prioritising personal growth over competition, BAFC’s vision is to build with the threads of community, talent, and the joy of playing and growing together,” said Lencoe.

The season for Birch Acres Football Club has resumed.

U7 to U9 are welcome for training on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 17:30.

U11 to 19 are welcome for training on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 17:30.

The club is located at 20 Krandsduif Street, Birchacres, Kempton Park.

All correspondence can be directed to www.bafc.co.za, WhatsApp 081 513 3089 or via email admin@bafc.co.za