Sponsorship brings back Giyani Youth Premier League

LIMPOPO – The Greater Giyani Local Football Association (LFA) is set to revive its Youth Premier League, bringing back competitive football for young players after a two-year absence caused by financial constraints.

The league, which is expected to run from May 1 to May 3, had been on hold due to a lack of sponsorship, leaving many aspiring footballers without a structured platform to showcase and develop their talent.

However, the return of sponsorship through Nkulungwani Consultants has breathed new life into the initiative.

Sponsorship brings relief to struggling teams

The head of Youth Football Development at the Greater Giyani LFA, Gezani Mashaba, confirmed the development and expressed optimism about the league’s return.

“We are pleased to announce that Nkulungwani Consultants, which previously sponsored us in 2023, has returned to support the league once again,” said Mashaba.

He explained that the league had struggled to continue in recent years, as many players found it difficult to afford the associated costs.

“Many players struggled with registration costs. However, this time, the sponsor has committed to covering a large portion of the registration fees to make participation more affordable,” he said.

Reduced registration costs for players

“Previously, teams were required to pay R1 800 for u/13 to u/17 registrations, but now players will only pay R150 for administrative purposes at our local Safa office. This fee will be used to compensate the person responsible for processing and issuing SAFA cards,” he explained.

Mashaba said the sponsor has committed to paying for the registration of 20 players per team in each age group, meaning 20 players for the u/13, u/15, and u/17 teams.

“In total, each team with all three age groups will have 60 players registered at no cost,” he said, adding that this intervention would allow teams to be able to redirect funds towards other needs, such as soccer kits necessary for teams playing in SAFA leagues.

Importance of Safa structure for player development

Mashaba also stressed the importance of participating in Safa structures, noting the opportunities it creates for young players.

“Players develop better within the Safa system, where they are exposed to opportunities to be scouted by professional football clubs across the country.

“It is important to note that players cannot participate in Safa selection games without a Safa card, which they can only obtain by playing within the Safa system,” he explained, pointing to recent success stories as proof of the system’s value,” he said.

Life skills beyond football

Beyond football development, Mashaba emphasised the broader life lessons that players get from playing under Safa structures, saying it also helps young players understand the rules of the game, as they are guided by formal regulations from an early age through to adulthood.

“They learn teamwork, discipline, tolerance, and respect for one another as well as for their coaches and management,” he said.

Revival expected to boost grassroots football

The revival of the Youth Premier League is expected to play a key role in rebuilding grassroots football in Giyani, providing young players with a structured and supportive environment to pursue their sporting ambitions.