The Barcelona FC from Klipspruit West calls on the public to lend a helping hand in support of grassroots football development as they prepare to participate in the league for the first time.

Founded by Selwyn Chotia over a decade ago, the club has nurtured young talent across several age groups, from U11s to U17s, bringing together players from diverse backgrounds.

Chotia, also the coach, said the club’s mission extends beyond sport.

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“It’s about developing these young people as footballers and individuals, who can change their circumstances and support their families,” he said.

He described the club as an agency for talent development, grooming players for professional opportunities locally and abroad.

The coach outlined plans to create a website connecting the players with scouts from established teams in the PSL, the Castle League and the Motsepe League.

Despite the club’s ambitions, Chotia acknowledges the challenges they face.

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He said many players struggle with discipline, timekeeping and lack of basic football gear, and he hopes he will help them develop those aspects in the league.

The club also faces infrastructure hurdles. Many training grounds have suffered from theft and vandalism, but Chotia is determined to establish a safe, functional home ground, with poles, nets and properly marked pitches.

They currently train at an open field via Daffodil Street. The grounds can be seen from the Main Road dividing Klipspruit and Eldorado Park.

“This is going to be our home ground. It’s a community space, but it’s our place to train and develop these players,” he said.

He stressed the importance of parents’ involvement, urging them to support their children and the club to prevent them from being drawn into negative paths.

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“Parental support has been inconsistent, with low attendance at meetings and minimal contributions towards club needs,” said Chotia.

While Chotia holds several facilitator certificates from his work in sports, arts, and culture, he continues to seek mentorship and collaboration with qualified coaches to enhance his coaching skills.

“If anyone wants to assist and empower me, I will grab it with both hands,” he said.

The club now calls on parents, community members and local authorities to support the players with soccer boots, training equipment and funds to register all the divisions at the ELFA junior league.

To support the club, contact Chotia on 082 767 8032.