VANDERBIJLPARK.- It was exceptional talent on display when the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Bophelong Hub hosted a Mini Top8 Tournament.

This impressive development tournament took place at Sancta Maria Primary School on Saturday.

This mini tournament saw eight development teams from Bophelong/Muvhango, Sharpeville, Tshepiso and Vanderbijlpark battle it out on the day. The tournament was for U11 and U13 players with Seven Stars FC from Tshepiso crowned the tournament champions in the U11 category.
United Colours FC from Sharpeville were crowned the U13 champions after they beat LMS Sports Academy 1-0 in the final.

The parents of the players came in numbers to support not only their children but this wonderful initiative. It was interesting to see boys and girls play against each other when Vaal Milano Ladies FC played against Junior Swallows. The winners in the U11 and U13 categories received big trophies and gold medals while the runners-up received silver medals. There were also individual awards for the players and goalkeepers of the tournament.

Thando Tshabalala from Italian Two Touch FC scooped the U11 Goalkeeper of The Tournament Award while Paseka Machobane from United Colours FC was named U13 Goalkeeper of The Tournament. LMS Sports Academy midfield maestro, Dakalo Moswari, was named the U13 Player of the Tournament.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Sandile Mpondo, who was the tournament coordinator hailed this initiative as a success. Mpondo said he was overwhelmed by the talent he saw on the day.

”I couldn’t believe my eyes when seeing girls playing with and against boys. This is development and want to compliment those coaches for their commitment to the development of our sports. It was a great day for football and these youngsters had fun. It was not about winning, but having fun,” concluded Mondo.

CAPTION: The Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation Bophelong Hub hosted a Mini Top8 Tournament on Saturday. Photos: Zacharia Nale