Flair Feet Stars FC presented themselves on the continental stage after being crowned champions at an international junior football tournament, marking a historic milestone for the fast-rising grassroots academy.

The Vanderbijlpark-based club clinched the title at the WSH Elite Cup South Africa 2025, widely regarded as Africa’s premier junior football tournament, held in Pretoria from December 10 to 14. The competition attracted elite academies, school teams and development clubs from across South Africa and abroad, making the victory a major achievement for the young side.

Flair Feet Stars FC’s triumph was underpinned by discipline, confidence and a fearless approach against international opposition. The club’s U13 team emerged victorious, while the U15 side narrowly lost in the final, continuing a season of strong performances at the highest youth level.

Individual excellence also took centre stage, with Ndidi John walking away with the Top Goal Scorer award, and Kagiso Mafokeng being named Goalkeeper of the Tournament – accolades that highlighted the academy’s balance between attacking flair and defensive solidity.

Head coach Nnamdi John described the victory as a breakthrough moment for the club.
“We are over the moon. For a long time, we have experienced setbacks in big tournaments, often finishing second. This time, the boys played with confidence, determination and belief. I am extremely proud of them.”

The WSH Elite Cup is a recognised scouting platform, with both local and international scouts in attendance. Strong performances at the tournament are known to open doors to scholarships, elite academies, and professional development pathways, turning every match into a potential career-defining opportunity for young players.

Club captain Michael Ferreira said the players were overwhelmed by the achievement.
“The team is overjoyed. Winning an international tournament after everything we’ve been through means a lot to us.”

Beyond the silverware, the victory has strengthened the academy’s long-term vision. Flair Feet Stars FC has already announced plans to embark on international tours in 2026, aiming to expose players to global competition and further showcase their talent on international platforms.

Coach John also extended his gratitude to the club’s support base.

“I want to thank the Flair Feet Stars parents and our supporters, the Blue Force, for their unwavering support. Our boys truly made us proud.”

Back in Vanderbijlpark, the triumph has been celebrated as more than just a football victory. Parents and community members continue to praise Flair Feet Stars FC for providing structure, discipline and opportunity to young players through sport.

Built on belief, development and resilience, Flair Feet Stars FC’s international success signals the rise of a grassroots academy ready to compete and win on the biggest youth football stages.