Sons of the King Sports Academy (SOTK) recently hosted a friendly soccer tournament aimed at having fun while playing the sport.

Founder Roberto Roggerini explained he started the academy after noticing many children on the streets getting involved with the wrong crowd.

“The academy aims to keep children engaged in soccer while giving parents peace of mind that their children are in a safe environment,” he said.

On November 28, various clubs from Florida (Roodepoort) to Carletonville participated in the free tournament:

• U11: Happy Masters FC beat SOTK 1–0
• U13: SOTK defeated Velocity FC 4–0, Young Tigers beat United Kingdom FC 4–0, Los Blancos won 5–4 over Casablanca Sports Club, Umphakati Club defeated SOTK 2–1
• U15: United Kingdom FC beat SOTK 1–0
• U17: SOTK defeated Umphakati Club 2–1, United Kingdom FC beat Happy Masters FC 1–0, Casablanca Sports Club beat Los Blancos 2–1, Young Tigers beat United Kingdom FC 2–1
• U19: Umphakati Club beat SOTK 3–2

Roberto noted that in September, the academy had between 20 and 31 children. Now, numbers have grown to over 100 across age groups 10 to 19.

The academy recently merged with Tshireletso Football Academy and collaborates with Hoërskool Westonaria High School, using its sports fields while helping with maintenance and donating essential items.

The academy also teaches children practical trades, including woodwork, metalwork, and artisan skills, and offers academic support with tutors. Additionally, they have community volunteers assisting with psychology, fitness and diet.

Beyond soccer, the academy also provides hockey, netball, rugby and chess programs while supporting coaches in their sports development.