It was a local derby in the final of the Potch Build It U13 Schools Soccer Festival that Promosa Primary won, with a narrow 1-0 victory against Keotshepile Primary School on October 24 at Ikageng Stadium.

Young soccer talent took centre as they delivered a day of exciting football, sportsmanship and grassroots development.

With 16 school teams competing for honours, this year’s festival was another successful chapter in a project that continues to create opportunities for young players to develop their sporting abilities and showcase their talent.
According to tournament organiser and Build It U13 Soccer, Netball and Rugby Project/Players Manager, Oupa ‘Magent’s’ Mothibedi, the festival once again exceeded expectations.

The excitement began on October 23 when the participating teams gathered at Aganang Radio Station for the official team draw ahead of the tournament.

Mothibedi, who has been instrumental in the programme’s development over the years, continues to emphasise the importance of creating sporting opportunities for young people, with the project extending its reach beyond the local community and into provincial and national development initiatives.

The programme has also taken another exciting step forward with the introduction of rugby, adding another sporting code to its development offering.

Among those playing an important role in making the festival possible were Makanaki Mmolai from the Department of Education, teacher and tournament local organising committee coordinator Bonang Mokwae,
For Mothibedi the festival is about much more than the final score or the team lifting the trophy.

“It is about developing young talent, building confidence, creating opportunities and ensuring that children from local schools have a platform on which to grow both as sportspeople and individuals.”

He also acknowledged the contribution of Mr Tonic Sethole from North West Emergency Medical Services, who provided medical support during the event, as well as Malefa Nyokong and sports co-ordinator Papi Lekopa.

Further appreciation was extended to the JB Marks Local Municipality’s Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation Potchefstroom Service Point, acting district director Thabo Kaweng, Macmillan Dluthu, Dr Mafisa and Aganang Radio Station’s management team.

Mothibedi reserved special acknowledgement for his mentor and the national head of the Build It U13 Soccer, Netball and Rugby programme, Les Pillay, for his continued leadership and support.