Football meets civic action in Youth Day celebration in Salt Rock
In an exciting final match, goals in each half saw Sheffield United defeat Mega Force 2-0 in front of a lively crowd.
A soccer tournament held to drive voter registration in underprivileged areas scored a spectacular goal on Youth Day.
KwaDukuza Democratic Alliance Ward 22 councillor Privi Makhan, supported by Ward 6 and 30 councillors Ayabonga Zwane and Jack Abrahams, along with event co-ordinator Smanga Simelane, hosted the Youth Day soccer tournament at Marchant Open Space in Salt Rock for the low-income settlements inside Sheffield, Umhlali and Salt Rock.
Abrahams hopes this will be the first of many such tournaments.
“Monday was a big success and could not have happened without our sponsors,” he said. “We are looking at hosting more sports events and hopefully making this an annual event to support local teams.”
Makhan said the aim was to energise and mobilise communities.
“It is important that we register people to vote, even if it is not for the DA. It is still valuable to do something that energises the local community,” she said.
“The DA recommitted to creating safe, inclusive and supportive environments where young people can thrive, both on and off the field. We remain committed to uplifting our youth and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to dream big and achieve more.”
Four teams contested the day-long tournament, with finalists receiving trophies, medals and new kits courtesy of Siza Water. Local businesses provided food, water and refreshments for the players, who came from informal clubs including Sheffield United, Mega Force FC, Real Stars and Umhlali FC.
In an exciting final, goals in each half saw Sheffield United defeat Mega Force 2-0 in front of a lively crowd.
Simelane expressed gratitude for the DA’s support in bringing the event to life.
“It was a good day and a good vibe. Everyone enjoyed themselves,” he said.
“I am trying to improve soccer in the area. This is the first time anyone has done this for our local teams.
“It is the first time we have played for trophies and medals, like Real Madrid and Liverpool. And getting new kits, that’s incredible.”
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