VANDERBIJLPARK – To promote fitness, foster camaraderie, and deter undesirable activities among officers, the Sedibeng Cluster Police have decided to revive their district soccer league.
The absence of the “beautiful game” for a decade has created a void within the police fraternity, raising concerns about the lack of recreational opportunities for both male and female officers.In a compelling appeal to management, the decision to reinstate the league was revisited and met with approval.
Alongside the physical and social benefits of exercise and friendship, the league is also viewed as a strategic initiative to deter officers from engaging in negative behaviours such as excessive alcohol consumption and involvement in criminal activities.
Speaking to Ster South, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the newly formed SAPS Soccer League Executive Committee, Sergeant Teenage Bulwane, provided insights into the decisions and their league.
“We have initiated with the top 16 teams, involving various police stations within our district. We are aiming to commence a new season for the league in the first week of March, marking the return of soccer leagues to our region after an absence of almost 15 years,” he explained.
Bulwane credited the resurgence of the league to the leadership of Commissioner General Lemba, acknowledging their support for revitalising this beloved sport.
“We advocated for its revival after noting that many of our officers were involved in car accidents, and some lacked constructive activities during their off days,” he added.
The Public Order Police Officer revealed that due to a shortage of officers interested in participating, several companies were approached to join the league.
“Other teams were formed by organisations such as Eskom, Groenpunt Correctional Facility, Mittal Steel, Emfuleni Local Municipality, and Sedibeng College lecturers. In total, we have eleven stations involved, including POPs Sedibeng, Sebokeng, Vereeniging, Orange Farm, Evaton, Meyerton, Vanderbijlpark, and the Vehicle Theft Unit,” he stated.
With a significant influx of young officers joining the force, Bulwane highlighted the positive impact of the games.
“Some officers had to abandon their soccer teams due to work commitments, but now they have the opportunity to continue participating in their favourite sport. We have witnessed a great deal of enthusiasm since the commencement of the games, and many of our officers are actively involved, yielding positive feedback,” he concluded.
