SEBOKENG – Sedibeng experienced a weekend of football excitement as dusty soccer grounds hosted thrilling matches to celebrate Heritage Day.

The celebrations began with the Kurra Cup at the Conti ground in Evaton, followed by the grand finale of the Master Zondo Foundation Heritage Day Super Cup at the Sebokeng Ajax FC ground in Zone 12. The annual tournament featured U13, U15, and U17 teams, with most participating clubs affiliated with the Emfuleni Local Football Association.

Action kicked off with a points system on August 10 and concluded on Heritage Day. Large crowds of young and old community members turned out in numbers to support the event. Aside from youth development, the tournament aimed to plough back into the community through football.

The Master Zondo Foundation organised the initiative to keep youngsters active after local junior leagues were disrupted by elections that brought in a new leadership under Mfanafuthi Masondo. Teams from the Sebokeng Orange and Yellow streams came together to battle for the championship trophy.

Master Zondo explained to Sedibeng Ster Sport that the foundation stepped in because election campaigns stalled local junior leagues. Aside from the Boitshepeville White Stream, other streams were inactive.

“The tournament successfully kept children busy while organisers figure out a way forward, expressing gratitude to participating teams for their sportsmanship. We also want to thank the Gushadee Foundation for providing food and refreshments for players and officials, alongside incoming Ward 34 Councillor Thabiso Tsolo and ANC officials for gracing the event,” said Zondo.

To entertain supporters, exhibition games were played by Sebokeng Ajax Legends, Celta Vigo, Evaton Arsenal, and Vaal Romans. In the tournament’s final standings, Sebokeng Ajax FC claimed the crowns for both the U13 and U15 categories, while Dolphins FC triumphed as the U17 champions.