THE Dhubri Road Grounds came alive on Saturday, July 25, as Merebank City Sporting Academy hosted its first Junior Soccer Tournament in 2026.

The tournament brought together young soccer players, families, supporters and community members for a memorable day of football, entertainment and community spirit.

The tournament featured U9, U11, U13, U15 and U17 divisions, with teams producing highly competitive matches that showcased outstanding skill, determination and sportsmanship.

The standard of football reflected the tremendous talent and passion that exists among the youth in community.

The event offered much more than football.

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Coach and manager for Merebank City Academy, Xavier Simon, said the academy’s purpose goes far beyond football.

“Our main goal is to keep our children off the streets and away from drugs, gangsterism and other negative influences affecting our youth today. Through football we teach discipline, respect, teamwork and healthy lifestyles while helping our children become better individuals. We do this because we love our community and believe in investing in our youth. Our dream is to see these children one day represent a PSL club or even wear the Bafana Bafana jersey.”

One of the academy’s greatest ongoing challenges is the lack of a permanent home ground for league matches. Although the club competes in the DSLFA Junior League, it has been unable to host home fixtures at the Dhubri Road Grounds. Instead, players, coaches and parents travel to Tara Road Grounds in Wentworth every Saturday for league matches.

Academy chairperson Isaiah Moodley said, “Our vision is to continue creating positive opportunities for the youth of Merebank through sport, but we need the support of our local leadership to help us obtain the required municipal approval. Together, we can ensure that these facilities remain a safe and accessible space for our children to grow, develop and thrive,” said Moodley.

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