Luncheon ahead of Grannies International Football Tournament
Adri Kruger hosted a team luncheon for Vakhegula Vakhegula players ahead of the GIFT tournament to foster unity and celebrate togetherness.
TZANEEN – Hotelier and Vakhegula Vakhegula soccer player Adri Kruger hosted a luncheon at Bankuna School Hall for her teammates ahead of the Grannies International Football Tournament (GIFT) that will run from April 2 to 5 at the Nkowankowa Stadium.
Before Kruger could address the gathering, her teammates surprised her with gifts as a token of appreciation for her generosity.
They presented her with Xitsonga traditional fabrics, beaded necklaces, and bracelets in recognition of her support.
Kruger explained that the luncheon was intended to foster team spirit and unity ahead of the tournament, which will run from April 2-5 at Nkowankowa Stadium.
“It is an honour to be part of this team. Despite coming from different backgrounds, we are all a family. God sees us as equals, and I want to cultivate a culture of togetherness,” she said.
“Let us give our best during the tournament and unite with our supporters to make this event unforgettable.”
Meanwhile, GIFT founder and Vakhegula Vakhegula FC pioneer Beka Ntsanwisi expressed her gratitude to Kruger for her contributions.
However, she voiced concerns over the lack of local support for the tournament, despite its growing international recognition.
“While international media and fans have shown enthusiasm, I am not receiving much support from within South Africa,” Ntsanwisi said.
She also announced her decision to step down from organising the tournament due to health concerns.
“After this tournament, I will officially hand over the GIFT project to my daughter, Nkhensani. I am reducing my workload to focus on my health, as my colon cancer, which I overcame years ago, returned last year. I am also planning to travel abroad for another project,” she revealed.
Ntsanwisi urged local communities and stakeholders to rally behind the initiative, citing financial challenges faced in 2023 when promised sponsorships failed to materialise.
International teams from countries including France, Togo, the United States, Zambia, and Mauritius arrived in South Africa on Sunday morning and travelled to Tzaneen.
The spotlight remains on the USA, the reigning champions, as fans eagerly anticipate whether they will defend their title or if another team will claim victory this year.
