A local football club in Parkmore is making a difference in young people’s lives by providing structure, discipline, and a sense of belonging through sport.

Established in 2024, Johannesburg Football Club was created to offer talented players a pathway into organised football, while strengthening community safety and development.

Founder, owner, and chairperson Armstrong McBaye said the club was built on a simple idea: Give young people something positive to focus on. “When you have a game to prepare for, you are looking forward to that rather than getting involved in things that are not conducive to growth.”

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The club currently consists of 28 players aged between 19 and 27, with plans to recruit younger athletes and eventually establish a youth academy. Beyond its social impact, the team has also achieved competitive success. In its first full season, Johannesburg FC finished fourth in the Sandton Super League and ranked among the division’s top-scoring teams.

McBaye added that the club has also dominated in five-a-side competitions, winning three titles in 2025. Despite these achievements, financial pressures remain a major concern. He said that the club currently pays for access to training fields and equipment, while rising costs continue to strain resources. “The financial aspect affects everything, transport, equipment, and the cost of competing in different competitions.”

McBaye elaborated that losing players to better-funded teams is another challenge. “Some of our better players move to other teams because those teams are in a stronger financial position.”

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The club is now calling on businesses, community members, and organisations to support its mission through sponsorship or partnerships. “We will ensure that businesses receive exposure and visibility through our teams and social media platforms.”

Looking ahead, the club hopes to compete for league titles while expanding opportunities for young athletes in the community. “Our goal is to grow the club, win competitions, and eventually build an academy that supports players from a young age.”

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