Moot club performs despite challenges
“These men have become like father figures to some of these boys.”
A football club from the Moot has grown and achieved many successes since they were formed three years ago.
Starting with only two members in 2016, the Eastside Kings Football club in East Lynne have since grown to 108 members according to one of the founders, Johnny Ditshego.
The club was started by Ditshego and Clint Kaszile, both fathers who came together and decided to start the club.
Not only do they compete against local teams, but the team also played league games, he told Rekord this week.
“We played against Tukkies this week and a German school last week,” he said.
One of the members’ mother, Virginia Keppler, said the team was very unique.
“These men have become like father figures to some of these boys,” she said.
Her twins were playing for the under-11 team.
ALSO READ: SPORT: Tau scoops player of the year in Belgium
“It is not so much the club, but the principle on which it was formed,” she said.
“The founders of the club not only formed the club for the sport, but it was also to keep them away from the streets and the social ills in the community.”
She said the players also had to perform well academically, otherwise they would be suspended for a period of time.
“They really make sure that there is a balance for the children,” she said.
However, Ditshego said the team was struggling.
“We would love to keep teaching the sport and competing in various tournaments, but finances sometimes becomes a challenge,” he said.
He said any donations or sponsorship for the team would be appreciated.
Anyone that would want to help, could send an email to esk17.fc@gmail.com.
Keppler said the team was something to look up to.
“We, as parents of the team, salute the coaches for what they have done,” she said.
“They have made such a change in so many of the children’s lives.”
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
