Scores of young footballers from across Johannesburg’s southern suburbs converged on the Sporting FC grounds in Turffontein on July 11 for the second annual DBL Community U12 Soccer Tournament.

Teams including Linhill Celtic FC, DBL FC, Joshco Turffontein FC and Rietvlei Soccer School showcased their talent in a day of competitive, entertaining football, while reinforcing the tournament’s message of education, leadership and community development.

Founder and chairperson of the tournament, Dr Keshia Mohamed-Padayachee, said the event had grown into much more than a football competition.

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Founder and chairperson of the tournament, Dr Keshia Mohamed-Padayachee, said the event had grown into much more than a football competition. Full story on southerncourier.co.za

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“This is a celebration of young people, community spirit and partnerships. It is about giving every child the opportunity to dream beyond their circumstances,” she said.

She welcomed Freeway Toyota as the tournament’s community partner, saying its support had helped create an unforgettable experience for players and their families. She also thanked Credit Guarantee Insurance Corporation (CGIC) for its continued investment in the DBL Foundation, as well as the Southern Local Football Association (SLFA), Sporting FC, volunteers, coaches, parents and the media for contributing to the event’s success.

“Our vision is to create opportunities for young people through sport, education and literacy, while developing the next generation of leaders. We want as many children as possible to have access to positive sporting opportunities and something meaningful to strive towards,” Mohamed-Padayachee said.

Ward councillor Faeeza Chame applauded the initiative, describing it as an important platform for youth development.

“My heart is with our young people, and this programme gives them a strong foundation to build their future. I hope that one day we will see some of these players representing clubs at the highest level. Whether they win or lose, they must never stop believing in themselves. Congratulations to Dr Mohamed-Padayachee and her team for creating this opportunity,” she said.

Messages of support

SLFA referee convener Shaun Mogotlane said the tournament was well organised, with exciting matches and a high standard of officiating.

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SLFA referee convener Shaun Mogotlane said the tournament was well organised, with exciting matches and a high standard of officiating.

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“The games were played in a great spirit and both the players and referees enjoyed being part of the tournament,” he said.

Representing Freeway Toyota, Manana Tsotetsi said the dealership was proud to support an initiative that positively impacts local communities.

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Representing Freeway Toyota, Manana Tsotetsi said the dealership was proud to support an initiative that positively impacts local communities. Full story on southerncourier.co.za

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“We are honoured to sponsor the DBL Community U12 Soccer Tournament and to play our part as a community-based dealership in supporting young people,” she said.

CGIC representative Simphiwe Khumalo said the company remained committed to investing in youth development through education and sport.

“Last year, while presenting our Financial Online Literacy programme at EW Hobbs Primary School in Eldorado Park, we identified talented young footballers. We assisted them with soccer kits and their SLFA affiliation fees, and this year we have continued supporting their affiliation so they can keep playing and developing,” he said.

One of the day’s standout performers was Linhill Celtic FC goalkeeper Lisakhanya Mzondi, whose crucial saves helped his side secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Joshco Turffontein FC.

“It was a great match and I’m happy I could help my team win,” he said.