Shilumani Academy wins Magangeni soccer final

LIMPOPO – “Sport is an important vehicle to promote harmonious interaction between people,” said the deputy minister of Finance, David Masonto, while addressing players during the Annual Magangeni Soccer Tournament finals on December 30.

The Magangeni Soccer Tournament began in December 2019 as a community sport and arts initiative aimed at uniting people of all ages through recreation and social interaction. Its main objective is to promote unity, social cohesion, and to keep young people engaged in positive activities and away from crime and substance abuse.

This year’s tournament featured 16 teams – eight from local football association teams and eight from the Safa Vhembe Hollywoodbets League. The champions from each stream, Shilumani Academy and Watervaal Real Stars, met in the overall final.

The closely contested match ended in a goalless draw, with Shilumani Academy crowned overall champions after winning 4–3 on penalties.

Masonto praised the standard of sport in Vhembe and Limpopo, highlighting the role of sport in child development. “Children who participate in sport tend to perform better academically, and we will see better long-term outcomes,” he said. He cautioned young players not to neglect their education.

“Sporting careers can be short-lived due to injuries or loss of form. Prioritise your education so that you are prepared for life beyond the field,” he advised.

Tournament sponsor Takalani Malaka said the initiative was driven by a love for children and community development. “We don’t have much, but the little we offer can make a difference,” he said. He added that plans were under way to partner with local businesspeople to strengthen youth development programmes.

Malaka encouraged young people to avoid drugs, alcohol, and crime. “If young people stay away from criminal activities, the economy will grow and investors will feel confident,” he said.

The coach of Shilumani Training Academy, Matimu Mashimbi, expressed pride in his team’s performance.

“The boys worked hard and showed unity. We are ready for league activities and proud to have made our community proud,” he said.

Traditional leader Hosi Hlekani Mkhari Njhakanjhaka called on businesspeople to support local development initiatives. “It is wrong to enrich oneself while giving nothing back to the community,” he said. He also encouraged residents to remain physically active for better health. During the prize-giving ceremony, more than R100 000 was distributed.

Shilumani Academy and Watervaal Real Stars received R10 000 each, new soccer kits, gold medals and a floating trophy. Bush River and Bokisi Scientists, who finished second, received R7 500, new kits and silver medals. Teams in third and fourth positions received R5 000 and R2 000 respectively from each stream.