Sports lovers from Nkowankowa and surrounding areas came in great numbers to witness the most popular festive event in the region at the Nkowankowa Stadium on December 27. The 2022 edition saw Matafuleni FC rise as the new soccer champions of the games, after smashing Dream Team 1-0 in the finals. In the first round matches the defending champion, Rich Gang lost 1-0 to their long-time rival Dream Team.

Meanwhile, Matafuleni came out victorious after winning 3-1 against Fofoza FC. In the losers round the Rich Gang redeemed themselves by beating Fofoza FC 5-4. The 13th edition of the games included sporting codes such as netball, volleyball, cycling, and fun walk, and for the first-time incorporated rugby. The Nkowankowa Rugby Team had the opportunity to showcase their talent on home ground when the senior team was smashed 22-19 by the juniors, also known as the Young Gunners.

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Coach Bryan Mashigo expressed his joy in showcasing to residents that Nkowankowa has talent. “The young players who were coached by Atwell Makhubele showed great courage during the game and did not allow the older players to dominate, I was very happy with their performance,” he said. Meanwhile in netball Nkowankowa City Remblers defended their title after winning against Kgapane Dream Team.

Cyclists entered in 40km and 80km distances, the race started at 04:30. Xipetso Nhlangwana, a director of Vuvekisi Holdings, and founders of the games told the Herald that they are happy with the continuous support from the community and sponsors. He said that one of the highlights was the economic empowerment the event brought to small businesses, as traders at the event sold out all of their products even before the games were over.

“The event had an electrifying atmosphere, it was also a reunion as most people were back for the holiday. “We also had the privilege of having the Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale, who enjoyed the games in the grandstand interacting with residents. Nhlangwana concluded by promising that the 2023 edition will be bigger and better, as they are busy sourcing corporate sponsors and has approached DStv to cover the games.