Vusi Nkabinde, widely known as Coach Gattuso, chose to celebrate his birthday in a way that will be remembered far beyond cake and candles.

On February 28, the chairperson of the Ezinambeni Development League turned his special day into a sports festival, hosting a soccer and netball tournament that united young athletes, families, and supporters.

According to Coach Gattuso, the celebration wasn’t just about himself; it was about investing in the future. “Champions are not born – they are built,” he reminded the players, emphasising that discipline, effort, and teamwork are the true gifts of the day.

The tournament featured U15 boys’ soccer, U15 girls’ soccer, and netball, each producing champions who rose to the occasion. Blackburn Rovers FC claimed victory in the U15 Boys division.

In the U15 Ladies division, the Mpumalanga Rising Stars lived up to their name, shining brightest when it mattered most.

On the netball courts, the Apple Poison Netball Team impressed with determination and unity, securing their place as champions.

Individual brilliance also shone through. Lungile Mahlangu of Apple Poison was named best player, Noluthando Mahlangu of Passion Ocean earned top goal scorer, and Sphiwe Mahlangu, also of Passion Ocean, walked away with the best goalkeeper award.

Tournament head coordinator Nhlanhla Mashiane expressed heartfelt gratitude to all teams that participated: “We fully appreciate the teams that honored our invite despite other commitments. The respect, discipline, and spirit displayed made the tournament a success.”

The tournament was a platform for dreams and a call to sponsors. Gattuso is pleading with potential sponsors to contact him directly at 084 306 1687.

SEE PHOTOS HERE:

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