VANDERBIJLPARK.- Local schools braved the scorching sun on Wednesday to battle it out in the inaugural Sports Against Crime Tournament at Vanderbijlpark Hoërskool.

Organised by the Department of Social Development’s Social Crime Prevention Unit, alongside the Department of Education, Department of Community Safety, and the SAPS, the initiative aims to keep children at risk away from crime and social ills through sport.

Secondary schools from Evaton, Boipatong, Heidelberg, Midvaal in Meyerton, and Vanderbijlpark took part.

Participating institutions included Moshate, Katleho, Mohaladitoe, Tshepo Themba, Jordan, Tharabollo, Lakeside, Mountain View, Ratanda High, Kgoro Yathuto, Tshepong, Newhope, Rossord, Jet Nteo, Sapphire, Khaya Lesedi, and Meyerton High.

Divided into five groups, the youngsters showcased their football talents, which organisers believe could even lead to professional careers.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Bonolo Tiroyabone from Social Auxiliary praised the collaboration with stakeholders and schools for making the maiden event possible, and thanked Social Crime Prevention Manager Nomfundo Kamolane for her role.

“It is exciting to see these youngsters express their God-given talent playing soccer. We want to thank our stakeholders for making this happen, and I do not doubt that we are going to have exciting finals. We want to thank those schools who responded positively when we invited them to be part of this initiative. I also want to thank Social Crime Prevention Manager Nomfundo Kamolane for the role she played in this initiative,” said Tiroyabone

The tournament concludes with the final between Meyerton High and Mountain View on October 23. Meyerton High crowned the 2026 Sports Against Crime champions after they beat Moutain View 3-1 in the final.