Global Soccer Schools International Florida host Foster Fives in celebration of Premier League hero

Far away from the limelight, a star returned to his roots.

Global Soccer Schools International (GSSI) Florida hosted a five-a-side tournament boasting the name of South Africa’s newest Premier League family. The Foster Fives event hosted eight teams in each of the U8, U10, and U12 age groups as they battled for the chance to shake the hand of Burnley Football Club’s Lyle Foster. The striker earned a promotion to England’s top tier with the Lancashire club and will be hoping to improve on his 11 appearances since joining the Clarets in January.

Lyle’s father Lance has been running the Florida facility for several years and the family is a growing force of positivity in the community. Lyle grew up in Florida and Fleurhof, attending Florida Primary School before moving to Parktown Boys for high school, and is now a symbol of hope and aspiration for players across the suburbs.

Capped 10 times for Bafana Bafana and having scored three goals for his country, Lyle was gracious in granting selfies, hugs, and handshakes to all admirers.

“It is very important to always give back to your community and it is important to always remember where you grew up. Players must stay as humble as possible, stay true to themselves and stay proud of where they come from. Always know that if you are internally strong you can not be broken,” said Lyle, offering advice to the youth.

With the fanfare off the pitch, which included Legends Barbershop who brought their mobile grooming van to give free haircuts to any youngster needing a trim, the soccer on it was intense. It was a good day out for the home team who won the U8 section beating Bulte Boys in the final as well as the U10s who beat Newclare United in their decider. They would have to settle for second in the U12 section as West Rand United was crowned winners.

Lyle came through the Supersport United Soccer School’s programme side-by-side with Moroka Swallows defender Keegan Allan, whose family owns what has evolved into GSSI.

“For GSSI it can only boost the brand. You can see from the young players’ enthusiasm that they all want to be where Lyle is. He is such a great inspiration and he is so humble. It is great to be able to show these boys there is a path to a bigger future,” said Shanene Allan, Keegan’s proud mother.

Lance and Lyle jumped on a plane the following day as Lyle was set to begin preseason training for the challenges ahead. Burnley will open the new Premier League season with a Friday night fixture against champions Manchester City and Roodepoort’s football fraternity will be keenly looking for Lyle’s name on the team sheet.