Young stars shine in KwaDukuza soccer showcase

Rain failed to dampen spirits as 22 teams battled it out in the thrilling Vumisa Football Tournament at Stanger High School last Saturday.

Teams from iLembe District, Greytown and Durban competed across four divisions.

Dribblers FC from Groutville claimed victory in the U19 category, while Sheffield FC lifted the trophy in the U13 division. Two Ntshawini teams gave strong performances in the intermediate age divisions, with Thandanani securing top honours in the U15 section and Nandisa emerging as champions in the U17 division.

Despite the wet conditions, the games drew a vibrant 200-strong crowd.

Tournament organiser Christain Vumisa, a resident of Etete originally from Maphumulo, thanked the players, supporters and sponsors for the support. He said the main aim of the tournament was to give young players a chance to be recognised by scouts.

Vumisa extended special thanks to AmaZulu FC scout Ayanda Mkhize, who attended the tournament.

“His presence really motivated the players. Although other scouts had been invited, the lack of sponsorship made it difficult to accommodate them,” said Vumisa.

He also thanked the iLembe division of the South African Football Association (Safa) for rescheduling league fixtures and providing referees to officiate the matches, as well as aQuellé for the refreshments.

Looking ahead, Vumisa said he hopes to expand the size of tournament next year by securing more sponsors.

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