Our Growing Champions heroes need some help – here is how you can assist

The Growing Champions (GC) soccer team was the undefeated champions of the Rand Central Local Football Association Senior League, and is now making waves in the Premier League.

Their players have had to, and against all odds, fight to chart a new path for themselves to give themselves a chance as they fight their way out of abuse, addiction and poverty.

Growing Champions is a Northcliff-based charity founded by Samantha Toweel-Moore 12 years ago. She says, “We help children to break the shackles of poverty, criminal rings, violence, addiction and abuse.”

Defying the odds, they won the senior league and are now playing with the best of the best. Unlike other clubs, they do not have the support of wealthy families or corporates. “I wish we could afford to give them all the tools they need to stay in shape, train effectively and have consistent and healthy nourishment but our charity just can’t meet their needs.”

She says each week she is truly amazed at how they keep going. “If playing with heart is anything to go by, these players are going all the way to the top.”

Toweel-Moore doesn’t like asking for donations, but hopes that by speaking out, some needs on their ‘wish list’ might be met by their ‘amazing community’.

“One of our biggest challenges is ensuring the team has enough nutrition from fresh fruit and vegetables. This includes on match days where fruit and carbohydrate-rich food is key.”

They also need sports bandages, creams for tight muscles, exercise clothing and all other related items that athletes use to perform optimally.

“Aside from physical items, we’d love it if more of the community came to support us on match days. Having people cheer you on is an ointment that cannot be purchased,” says Toweel-Moore.

To learn more or to make a donation, visit www.growingchamps.co.za or call 082 803 3866.

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