Marlboro Celtic FC is building futures, not just footballers
Behind every goal and every cheer lies a bigger purpose. Marlboro Celtic FC is giving local children more than a place to play; it’s giving them the confidence, discipline, and opportunities to grow on and off the pitch.
Founded in 2024, Marlboro Celtic Football Club has quickly become a rising force in Johannesburg’s youth football scene.
With an emphasis on grassroots development, community engagement, and personal growth, the club is not only nurturing the next generation of footballers but shaping confident young individuals ready to make a difference both on and off the field.
As a registered non-profit, the club welcomes players from Marlboro, Alexandra, and surrounding areas, offering young athletes a structured environment to learn, compete, and thrive. In just a short time, Celtic has already made its mark, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing.
Read more: Youth talent shines at Discovery Soccer Park’s 2025 spring league
The club’s chairman, Suleiman Bey, said the inspiration behind starting Marlboro Celtic FC came from a shared belief that the community is full of untapped football talent. “We wanted to create a platform where passionate, skilled players could compete, grow, and enjoy the game in a positive, structured environment.”
The club currently fields U7, U9, and U12 teams, with plans to expand next season to U6, U8, U10, U13, and U17 squads due to growing demand. This rapid growth has been guided by a clear vision and a united leadership team.
“From our executive to our coaches, everyone shares the same mission,” Bey said. That unity allows us to grow without losing sight of our grassroots values, developing local talent, keeping the game fun, and building a strong football community.”
Despite the challenges of being a new club in Johannesburg’s competitive youth football scene, Marlboro Celtic has earned respect through hard work and results.
Facilities and resources remain ongoing challenges, but the club’s commitment and teamwork have been key to its early success.
Among the club’s early success stories, the U9 squad stands out. Formed just this season, the team quickly found its rhythm, remaining unbeaten through the first half of its league campaign.
Also read: Discovery Soccer Park hosts Spring League 2024
After earning a promotion, they continued their dominant run, ultimately clinching the NS League title and winning two major tournaments, the Holo Skoko Cup and the Benoni Spurs Tournament.
“The U9s really embodied what Marlboro Celtic stands for. They adapted quickly, played with heart, and showed that discipline and teamwork bring results.”
At the core of Marlboro Celtic’s philosophy is the belief that winning is not everything; growth is.
“We balance competitive success with personal development. Our coaches focus on building not just footballers, but well-rounded young people. Success for us is measured in confidence, discipline, and joy for the game.”
Community engagement is central to the club’s mission. In 2025, Marlboro Celtic partnered with Ashraful Aid, a local aid organisation, to collect and donate clothing at their awards ceremony.
Over the next three to five years, Marlboro Celtic FC plans to expand its teams, enhance coaching programmes, and strengthen community ties, all while staying true to its grassroots roots.
“We want to grow thoughtfully and sustainably. We’ll never take on more than we can handle. Every new step must align with our values to nurture talent and make a lasting positive impact.
“Ten years from now, I want Marlboro Celtic to be remembered as a club with a purpose transparent, humble, and driven by integrity. A club that gave kids opportunities, made them happy, and helped them grow into great footballers and great people.”
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!
