Birch Acres Primary makes mark in football finals
Birch Acres Primary School made history in the Kempton Park Primary Schools Football League when four of its five soccer teams reached the finals, with three taking home championship titles.
Birch Acres Primary School made history in the Kempton Park Primary Schools Football League when four of its five soccer teams reached the finals held recently at the Bonaero Park Football Grounds.
The school fielded U9, U11, U12, and U13 teams in the tournament. While the U12 side narrowly lost their final, the U9, U11 and U13 teams won their respective categories.
“I am happy with the boys; they make us proud in the classroom and on the field,” said Victor Maseko, a Birch Acres educator and the U13 coach.
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“We believed we would win, and although not all our teams took the title, we’re proud of every player. Our boys are our pride, and we appreciate the support from parents, schoolmates, and staff.”
The tense U9 final against Maranatha Primary ended 1-1 after extra time. Birch Acres held their nerve in the penalty shootout, winning 6-5. The team had begun training as U8s last year, overcoming challenges related to age, stamina and skill.
“In 2025, we excelled with the help of Uncle Gomora Tumi Mogashe and Mandla Moyo, who trained the U9s efficiently, helping them build confidence and agility,” said Nozipho Dube, the U9 coach and an educator.
“The team performed well throughout, defeating most schools and gaining momentum in the league.”
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Co-coach Mavis Mutangirwa added, “It was challenging, but through prayer and determination, we made it to the finals and beat Maranatha. We qualified for district level, but there were no U9 teams from other districts to compete against.”
The U11 team defended their title with a 1-0 win over Mooifontein Primary School, repeating their 2024 success, when they won 3-0 against the same school. The U12s lost their final in a narrow 4-3 penalty shootout, also to Mooifontein.
The U13 team secured back-to-back titles by defeating Olifantsfontein Primary 2-0 in their final match.
“The boys are working hard, and I’m proud of how quickly they adapt in a demanding environment,” said U13 coach Calvin Segoale.
“Challenges are part of the game, but the support from our principal and staff helps us manage. Their performance was overwhelming; we can’t wait for the next tournament.”
Birch Acres Primary also celebrated individual honours, with three players named top scorers in their age groups: Ezra Leballo (U9), Ngcebo Dlamini (U11) and Themba Nkosi (U13).
