Protea Glen’s Lookland FC bags R212k in tournament wins, invests in youth
Tshaka highlights the team's commitment to sharing winnings with players and promoting football as a positive alternative to crime and drug abuse, while stressing the importance of education and career development for youth in the community.
Humphrey Tshaka, head coach of Lookland FC from Protea Glen, shared that his team recently won two tournaments, earning prizes worth R212 000.
The first, the Tsalanang Tournament, took place in Braamfischer on April 21 and was awarded R130 000.
The second, the Mabusmaneng Tournament, was held in Evaton Vaal on June 8 and brought in a prize of R82 000.
Tshaka explained that the winnings were shared with players immediately after each tournament.
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“We set aside a portion of the money for affiliation fees for upcoming tournaments and emergencies, such as when a player needs financial assistance.”
He emphasised his desire for the Protea Glen community to understand that football offers more than what is traditionally perceived. According to Tshaka, many young people are no longer participating in extracurricular activities.
“When boys have something constructive to do, like playing football or other sports, they are less likely to commit crimes or use drugs,” he said. “Football isn’t just about playing—it can become a source of income.”
However, he made it clear that earning money through sport should not come at the cost of education or career development. “To play on my team, you must either be working or studying.
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“For those still in matric, we do everything we can to help them secure bursaries, because life continues after football.”
Tshaka discourages players from focusing solely on football, as it is often a short-term career.
“Even highly talented players can be held back due to financial difficulties,” he noted.
While calling for greater community support, Tshaka also urges young boys to engage in positive local activities.
“As a coach, I act as a father figure for some of my players, because that’s missing in their lives,” he said.
“But not having a father figure is no excuse to misbehave. It’s about seeking out positive influences and support systems to guide you.”
