Excitement builds ahead of GREST: R180k up for grabs
This year's GREST is creating major excitement among soccer players and teams as big prize money is up for grabs.
With R180 000 at stake, the stage is set for the annual Greater Randfontein Easter Tournament (GREST) to be held at the Patrick Ace Ntsoelengoe Stadium.
The event will kick off on Good Friday where five local teams will be looking to go all-out.
The teams include favourites Four Stars and House Party which has Tumelo ‘Doof’ Mogapi as well as Edward Manqele in their squad. Tumelo had a stint at the Bloemfontein Celtics and Maritzburg United while Edward featured for Free State Stars and Mamelodi Sundowns.
“There was so much interest from far and wide. Even the 2024 winners could not enter in time and it was a matter of first come, first serve,” said Abe Montoedi, the GREST local organising committee chairperson.
Other local teams that are expected to battle it out during the four-day annual soccer tournament include Future Stars coached by former professional soccer players, two of them being Karabo ‘Stich’ Tshepeand and Didi Mohlakeng.
Motlakase Football Club, from Chiawelo in Soweto, is said to be favourites heading into the tournament after winning top Gauteng tournaments like the Philly Games in Tembisa and the Mahlobo Games in Meadowlands.
In 2024, Rand West City Executive Mayor Willam Matsheke and Mzi Khumalo (former mayor) graced the GREST with their presence.
They are also expecting the Deputy Minister of Sport, Art, Culture and Recreation, Peace Mabe to be present this year, Abe said.
