Game of Stars Project launched by Mark Fish Foundation

Fish announced the project that 'will use the game of soccer to build relationships on farms, give hope to workers and youth, develop life skills and scout for soccer talent on farms and in rural areas in general'.

This is what Game of Stars is about-legends developing legends! Mark Fish Foundation. Photo: Twitter – @agri-limpopo / @MFFounda

On Tuesday February 13, a ground breaking venture between Limpopo farmers and the Mark Fish Foundation (MFF) was launched by Mark Fish in Polokwane, Letaba Herald reports.

At the Agritable event of Agri Limpopo at Bolivia Lodge, attended by banks, insurance companies, agriculture input providers, agricultural businesses, SAPS, the CCMA, DAFF, farmers’ organizations, Womens’ Agricultural Union, farmers and friends of Limpopo agriculture, Fish announced the project that “will use the game of soccer to build relationships on farms, give hope to workers and youth, develop life skills and scout for soccer talent on farms and in rural areas in general”.

The Project will be known as the Game of Stars Project.

The initial survey amongst farmers in Limpopo drawn interest from no less than 80 existing farm soccer teams.

After the announcement indications are that this number may well double prior to the first finals to be played in August 2018.

According to Mark Fish, the shortened version of soccer, the project will be based upon, called “Fast Footie”, will increase spectator numbers.

This version of soccer makes for a faster, more entertaining game. In this tournament players will play 20 minutes a side with a power play of 5 minutes called by the respective captains of the teams.

During power play 3 players of the opposing team will be asked to leave the veld. Goals further out as the 18 meter circle will count for 2 goals. Penalties will be scored by hitting the cross bar of the goal post of an undefended goal box!

“We are committed to develop and train team coaches, game officials, team managers and players alike” Fish indicated. “Although we are going to play soccer, we are focusing on the people and families involved with the game. Every individual deserves the chance to become the best person possible. This is our aim” he added.