Youth Correctional Centre hosts soccer tournament in Barberton

The Youth Correctional Centre hosted the Barberton Young Stars for a friendly match on June 27 to promote discipline and mentorship. The initiative aligned with the slogan: “Our national commitment to the future for freedom lives in every generation”, bringing together incarcerated offenders and community youth. The goal was to map the barriers that lead to crime and show young men that excellence is a choice.

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The offender wellness and development programme runs a weekly league to keep young men focused, active and healthy. Medium offenders compete in a four-team league every Saturday, while maximum offenders play in a two-team league.

The official responsible for offender wellness and development, Anthony “Bizarre” Hlongwane, said sport is changing lives inside the high fences.

“Soccer is more than a game for our offenders; they are trained with discipline, teamwork and respect for rules. One can see the love they have when they step onto the field, and I encourage them to participate, because it reminds them that they still have a future to work towards,” he said.

The head of the Youth Correctional Centre, Thobile Mashego, emphasised that the department supports offenders’ well-being because a healthy body and a focused mind provide them with better chances at rehabilitation.

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“Sporting codes give our offenders structure, purpose and a healthy outlet. I commend the officials for their support and I encourage both offenders and officials to keep doing what they are doing,” she said.

“Crime does not pay, and I do not want to see any member of the Barberton Young Stars incarcerated in this facility. Be bold, be disciplined, and make choices that build your future, just as the youth of 1976 fought for the future.”