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Mondeor Meteors marks 65 years of building champions on and off field

As the club celebrated its anniversary, it highlighted its role in the community and efforts towards a positive future through sport.

The Mondeor Meteors Football Club celebrated 65 years of sporting excellence, marking a long journey of service to football and the community.

The club, formed in 1960, has grown into a respected institution that focuses not only on sport but also on developing young people.

The club was led by its current vice chairperson, Mervin Louis, and chairperson, Xavier de Sousa, since the early 2000s. Under their leadership, the Mondeor Meteors have continued to grow while staying true to the values of discipline, inclusivity and community upliftment.

The Mondeor Meteor operates without external subsidies and relies on membership fees from parents.

Despite this, it supports around 250 children between the ages of four and 17. Most come from the surrounding areas, and the club does not disqualify anyone based on skill level or background. Every child is welcome.

Vice chairperson Mervin Louis, facility manager Themba Shabangu and Chairperson Xavier De Sousa. Photo: Desnay Peterson

The club has a strong focus on discipline, structure and respect. However, success at the Mondeor Meteors is not measured by winning matches only. Louis explained that the real achievement lies elsewhere.

“Success for us is not about trophies. It is about seeing children develop, improve and grow as people,” he said.
While discipline is important, the club believes in freedom of expression on the field. De Sousa shared this philosophy.

“When the kids and players are on the field, we allow them to be totally free and express themselves,” he said.

“We are strict but it brings us joy to see the joy on their faces, their energy and their free spirits.”

Beyond football skills, the Mondeor Meteors play an important role in keeping young children and youth away from social ills that often plague communities. By providing a safe, structured and positive environment, it helps guide young people toward better life choices. Coaches at the club are volunteers who focus on good governance, integrity and personal development, creating a supportive space for players and their families.

Over the years, the club has produced players who have gone on to professional levels, including representing international teams. This is proof of the strong foundation built at the grassroots level.

The long-serving leadership of the club, Vice chairperson Mervin Louis and Chairperson Xavier De Sousa. Photo: Desnay Peterson

Community engagement remains a key part of the club’s identity. Recently, the Mondeor Meteors organised charity events to give back, strengthening its bond with the community it serves.

As the club continues to grow, its leadership has clear goals for the future. A major aim is to secure funding to expand its programmes and grow its women’s team. The club has acknowledged the need for greater female participation in football and is committed to supporting women’s development in the sport.

The new season starts on January 19, and excitement is building among players, parents and supporters. After 65 years, the Mondeor Meteors FC remains dedicated to building a strong community through sport, discipline, joy and personal development, proving that football is a powerful force for positive change.

Anyone interested in enrolling a child, volunteering, partnering with the club, or getting involved can call 062 663 3601 or email [email protected]

Follow the club on Facebook and Instagram for updates and information on upcoming activities.

At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

Desnay Peterson

Desnay, a Wits graduate and an enthusiastic community journalist. With a deep passion for writing, she brings local stories to life, highlighting the voices and events that shape the Johannesburg south community. Her commitment to uncovering and sharing important local stories ensure accurate and fair reporting that serves the community with integrity.

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