New SLFA leadership pledges revival of local football in Southern Johannesburg

The Southern Local Football Association (SLFA) has officially announced its executive committee for the 2026 football season, introducing a leadership team it believes will strengthen local football, improve governance, and rebuild the region’s football development pathway.

Founded in 1933, the SLFA, originally known as the STFA, has played a key role in organising amateur football in Southern Johannesburg for decades. It provides structured leagues for junior and senior teams and has long been seen as a development ground for local talent.

In 2006, it was renamed the SLFA and continues to carry its proud taglines of ‘Developing Amateur Football Since 1933’ and ‘The Pride of the South.’

New leadership aims to rebuild and grow the league

The newly elected committee brings together representatives from several well-known community clubs, including Alveda Football Club, Linhill Celtic Football Club, Robertsham Callies Football Club, and Mondeor Meteors Football Club, reflecting what officials describe as a more diverse and inclusive structure.

The committee is led by chairperson Elton Campher, with Mervin Louis as vice chairman, Sylvia Glade as vice chairlady, Leanne Rigney as secretary, and Nompumelelo Bhengu as treasurer.

Chairman Campher said the new executive represents a shift towards unity and development after years of decline in participation and competitiveness within the league.

“For the first time, we have a fully diverse executive made up of people from different clubs across the South. Our focus is to rebuild the SLFA into a strong football association again.

“Years ago, this league produced professional players, but that pathway has weakened. We want to restore it and make sure clubs feel supported and welcome at all levels,” he said.

He added that since the committee was elected in March, early progress has already been made in stabilising league operations and improving communication with clubs.

Focus on development, inclusion and community growth

A major part of the SLFA’s 2026 plan is to strengthen football administration while expanding opportunities for women, youth, and community development programmes.

Treasurer Nompumelelo Bhengu said her role will focus on financial management and fundraising to support the association’s wider goals.

“It is a privilege to serve in this position. My background is in accounting, so I understand the importance of proper financial planning. We are also actively working on fundraising so that we can bring more resources into the league and help young players get better opportunities through football,” she said.

Glade highlighted the importance of community involvement and inclusion across all age groups.

“We want to grow women’s football, but also involve elderly people in sport for health and social well-being. Football should not only be for players on the pitch- it should be for the whole community. We also want to work closely with businesses so that they can support the growth of clubs and keep football alive in our areas,” she said.

Rigney said one of the biggest challenges is bringing informal clubs into the structured league system.

“Many clubs operate outside of formal structures, which makes it difficult for them to access funding and support. We want to change that by encouraging more clubs in the south to join the SLFA. It will take time, but the response so far has been positive, and clubs are engaging well with us,” she added.

Louis said improvements are already visible in the early stages of the season.

“I’m honoured to have been elected to serve on the local football association. I’m here to serve our football community and all our clubs. My focus is to reignite the passion for football in our youth, across all age groups and levels. It’s a privilege to be part of this, and I’m committed to building a stronger future for the game we love,” he said.

A renewed vision for Southern football

The SLFA says its long-term vision is to restore its position as one of the strongest amateur football associations in the region. This includes improving coaching and referee development, strengthening league structures, and promoting sportsmanship and inclusion across all levels.

With the 2026 season already underway, the association says it is committed to working closely with clubs, parents, supporters, and stakeholders to ensure steady growth and a more competitive future for local football in Southern Johannesburg.

For more information, visit the official website.