Sport teams want their prizes from Govan Mbeki Municipality
The municipal spokesman said they are following the rules to adhere to processes of accountability.
The Govan Mbeki Municipality Mayoral Cup 2023 was marred with complaints from some of the participating teams.
The cup included diverse sporting codes like netball, soccer, aerobics, tennis, rugby, morabaraba and basketball.
Some teams alleged that they did not get the promised prize money.
According to the chairperson of a participating soccer team who wants to remain anonymous, they were told to hand in documents before the tournament.
“Now when it comes to receiving their rewards, we are told the documents are incomplete and more papers are required.
“We had many meetings before the tournament to discuss what was needed to enter. It is as if we are bidding for a tender,” the man explained.
“When we told the mayor that we didn’t get our reward he promised to ensure that we receive it.”
This man also questioned the idea of the floating trophy, meaning how can a team prove they won the cup if the trophy had to be returned?
The tournament finals were played on August 30, and Executive Mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma handed over trophies, medals and sports kits to all teams that made it through to the finals. Donald Green, the municipal spokesperson, said the municipality is aware of the misunderstanding.
Green said teams were informed through the sports confederation to submit their required documents. Those who submitted received their prize money while others are still a work in progress.
Green said this will be an annual event in an attempt to motivate the youth through sport and also with the aim of contributing towards sports development in the area.
“It was clearly explained during the prize-giving ceremony that trophies are available for collection. We are following every note in the book to adhere to processes of accountability,” said Green.
Green said the municipality remains committed to playing a big role in sports development so that talented young players can make their dreams come true.
During the prizegiving at the eMbalenhle Sasol Club, Zuma honoured all participants and urged those who had lost to try their best next year.
Zuma said the municipality is committed to youth and sports development. He lauded the dedication of young people in sports and urged them to continue striving for excellence.
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