Rabie Ridge Brave Lions Football Club calls on the Midrand community to help make its U17 development tour to Limpopo a reality.

The club plans to take 20 players and two officials on the tour from September 25 to 27 to expose the young athletes to higher levels of competition.

Club chairperson Stanley Matshele Mmotla (47), a passionate advocate for youth development, said football remains one of the most effective tools for keeping young people away from negative influences while helping them build confidence and character.

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“Our mission is to use football as a tool to guide youth away from negative influences, instil discipline and values, and help them reach their full potential both on and off the field,” said Mmotla.

He explained that the Limpopo tour forms part of the club’s long-term youth development programme and will expose players to different playing styles, competitive matches and developmental activities.

“The trip is designed to promote discipline, teamwork, leadership and personal growth among the players. It is also an opportunity to showcase the talent within our club and strengthen relationships with other football structures,” he said.

For Mmotla, the tour also carries personal significance. Having spent 15 years living in Limpopo, he hopes the visit will inspire the players beyond football. “We aim to inspire the youth from this community. The boys will also be exposed to the heritage and culture of Limpopo.”

The tour, however, comes at a cost. The club needs to raise about R25 000 to cover transport, meals and refreshments, playing kits, training equipment, medical supplies and other logistical expenses.

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“As a community-based club, we operate with limited financial resources, which makes it challenging to cover all these costs,” said Mmotla. “We are committed to ensuring that no player is excluded because of financial constraints, which is why additional support is required.”

Mmotla said the club is appealing for both financial donations and in-kind sponsorships, including transport, sportswear, soccer equipment, first-aid supplies, water, energy drinks and nutritional support.

“The development of young athletes cannot be achieved by the club alone. Community support enables us to create opportunities that would otherwise be beyond our financial capacity,” he said.

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He added that sponsorships also ease the financial burden on families while demonstrating the community’s commitment to youth development.

According to Mmotla, the club’s efforts are already producing results, with three former players currently at Mamelodi Sundowns, highlighting the potential within the Brave Lions development system.

“Community support would make it possible for more players to participate regardless of their financial circumstances. It would inspire and motivate our young athletes to work harder and pursue their dreams,” he said.

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our players, coaches, parents, volunteers, sponsors and community members for their continued support.”

Potential sponsors can contact the chairperson on 082 571 5700

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