Birch Acres FC closes season with awards honouring top achievers

Birch Acres FC marked a successful year by hosting their 2025 awards ceremony on November 29, recognising both team and individual achievements.

The event celebrated the dedication, hard work, and talent of players, while encouraging them to continue striving for excellence.

All club players received participation certificates and trophies, with top achievers awarded special honours to acknowledge their commitment and outstanding performances.

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U9 Centre Midfielder Paballo Ledwaba said being the only girl in her team made her feel “like the queen” and reflected on the challenges her team faced during the season.

“The season was a little difficult because my team and I were sometimes playful and not fully focused, but we managed to get back on track and win the league. It feels amazing because I worked hard,” Ledwaba said.

The U9 team finished first in the league, marking an incredible journey despite obstacles, and individual awards were presented to encourage continued growth and dedication.

While the U12 team did not finish first this season, they are using the experience as motivation for improvement. Player Mohau Mosoeu said the team hopes to reclaim the top spot next season.

“The season was good, although we struggled in the first half. We found our way in the second half, and overall it was a good season. It feels weird not to finish first because we did last season, but I hope we do better next season,” Mosoeu said.

The club also honoured players from the women’s team, presenting certificates to all participants and special awards to exceptional performers.

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Left Wing player Lunathi Masiza received three awards: Top Goal Scorer, Best Player’s Player of the Season, and Most Consistent Player. She described the recognition as one of the proudest moments of her life.

“Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I was going to win an award, but I had faith. There are so many talented players around me who work hard every day. Receiving these awards means a lot because they remind me of the effort I put in throughout the season,” Masiza said.

Masiza acknowledged that the season was challenging and her performances did not always meet her personal standards.

“However, she viewed the experience as an opportunity to learn and grow, focusing on discipline and supporting her teammates even when results were not as expected.

“The most challenging part was maintaining consistency in every game. There were matches where I didn’t play at my best, which was frustrating, but with my team’s support, we managed to push through,” she said.