Author: Staff Writer
Stakeholders who were part of the June 16 tournament that was held at Moko Sport Ground in Debe over the weekend, have committed of an ongoing partnership.
The three-day tournament was hosted by Aspire in partnership with Moko Sport Foundation, SuperSport, Amathole District Municipality and the provincial department of sports, recreation, arts and culture.
Aspire Acting CEO Chwayita Stofile said the event was a huge success.
“Judging from the response from the clubs across the municipality, we can say without fear that, we are going far.
She said the purpose of the event was to unearth sport talent in Amathole District Municipality.
“The skill that was showcased during the tournament is indeed an indication that the municipality is rich in talent,” she said.
Speaking at the event, the executive mayor of Amathole District Municipality councillor Anele Ntsangani encouraged the youth to dream big.
“We want you to emulate the youth of 1976. However, in order to achieve that, you need to commit in self development,,” he said.
He said sport was able change ones behavior and attitude.
Coach of the Future Tigers a soccer team from Mbhashe Local Municipality, Zama Dlulangaye said his team was excited to come on top.
His team bit Zanono of Dimbaza 2-1 in the finals.
“It wasn’t easy, but our hard work in preparation for this tournament. Our aim now is to defend this title next year,” he said.
Dlulangaye said his wish was to produce successful soccer players.
“Our wish is to see them playing at a professional level,” he said.
Coach of Tornado a netball from Amahlathi local municipality Thaba Badi couldn’t not hold his excitement.
He said winning the tournament was a huge achievement for him and his players.
His team is based in Ngqeqe location in Qoboqobo.
“I am happy that they are reaping the fruits of their dedication and hard work,” he said.
One of the partners Siyabulela Moko of Moko Sport Foundation said, he wanted to see the facility as a scouting ground.
“I was impressed with the skill and talent shown by various teams,” he said.
Moko said the also brought economic spinoffs for local hawkers, “and there were locals who were hired to help with the event,” he said.
He said he was happy that his multi-million rand facility was not a “white elephant.”
“The primary purpose of this facility was to avail a platform for rural youth to showcase their talent.
I am very happy to have seen hundreds of young people at the event,” he said.
At least 60 teams from netball, soccer and rugby participated in the event.
The winners walked away with cash prizez,kits, balls, medals and trophies.
