The Tshwane Elderly Golden League was officially launched in Mamelodi, marking a new era for senior citizens who love to kick and show off their soccer skills.

The league consists of 12 teams from around the Tshwane region.

The launch took place at Muckleneuk sports ground in Mamelodi on Tuesday.

Secretary Josinah ‘Granny’ Telly said the league is for elderly people aged 60 years and upwards.

“The oldest player in the league is 79 years old and she is actively playing,” said Granny.

Granny said the elderly people started playing soccer in 2009 in Mamelodi and Eersterust.

“In 2012, we were joined by other teams from other regions in Tshwane as far as Soshanguve, Hammanskraal, Mabopane and Thembisa.

“The Tshwane Elderly Golden League keeps the elderly people busy and strong at all times.”

Granny said the official launch was supposed to take place last week in Thembisa, but due to the unrest, it was postponed and moved to Mamelodi.

“The teams started the new league with each team playing two games for the day,” said Granny.

She said the Golden League games take place once a month due to travelling expenses.

The players are pensioners and have to pay for all travelling expenses out of their own pockets.

The registration fee for each club is R300 per year and each team must pay R30 for the referees.

“The good thing about playing soccer, we get to travel a lot, visiting other provinces like Cape Town and partaking in different soccer tournaments.”

The Elderly League desperately needs sponsors for travel costs and sports equipment.

Granny further encouraged elderly people to join or start their own soccer team.

She said most of the members who started playing soccer were complaining about body aches, joints and chronic diseases.

“Exercising helps in healing an aching body, and reduces constant visits to the hospitals, clinics and doctors’ visits.”

She added that one of the other benefits is to fight boredom and get out of the house.

“Your body aches, diabetes and high blood pressure will disappear. You will feel healthy and strong.”

She said the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture sometimes sponsor medals and trophies.

Anyone who wishes to help sponsor the league may contact Granny on 066 310 9762.

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