Zandile Primary School crowned champs

Zandile Primary School have been crowned the champions of the 2013 Build It Knockout Tournament after a 2-1 victory over Mpumelelo Primary School.

This came to light on Saturday, when they competed for the title at the Junior Aces Sport Ground.

Every year a total of 16 schools participate. The aim of the tournament is to develop and encourage young talented players to take the sport seriously.

“It is sponsored by all Build It stores

as a special initiative by the group.

“It is our way of giving back to the community and to develop young footballers,” said the owner of Schoemansdal Build It, Sohail Raja.

He also mentioned that they had chosen schools because they wanted to link talent development with education.

“We are happy that people come to the shop to ask about the tournament, that shows us how important it is in the community.

“I have promised them that I would not stop it as long as the shop is still there,” added Raja.

The learners enjoyed the tournament. Every school gave their all but only one of them fulfilled their wish of being crowned the champions.

The performances given by the players lead to penalties in all the semi-finals. Football lovers and senior players enjoyed watching the games and they wished that developing tournaments could be more than entertaining competitions.

“We wish that other businesses could learn from Build It and help us develop the young talent.

“It is in our hearts to see these young boys playing professional football in the best leagues, not just here in South Africa but internationally,” said the Matsamo Soccer League stream coordinator, Faniki Mkhonto.

Bandile Lubisi walked home with the player of the tournament award for his outstanding show-stopping saves.