On Sunday, Premier Panyaza Lesufi attended the 9th edition of the Siphiwe Tshabalala soccer tournament in Phiri, Soweto. This event aims to foster a sense of community in the football fraternity, offering youth the opportunity to showcase their skills while enjoying the game.
Held during the winter school holidays from June 15 to July 9, 2024, at the Kgotso Grounds, the tournament includes participants from neighbouring provinces. The competition features three categories for boys: under-15, under-17, and under-20, and two categories for girls: under-15 and under-20.
“We have over 3,000 players, many from other provinces. They come here because we are the province of champions,” said Siphiwe Tshabalala.
Premier Lesufi, known for his love of soccer, watched the under-17 matches and a football legends game as a curtain-raiser to the tournament finals. Tshabalala also gave Lesufi a mini-tour of the school where participants stayed, where the premier expressed his satisfaction knowing the school would not be broken into.
“No one will come and break in here because there are people; that is what I like,” said Premier Lesufi.
Lesufi expressed his gratitude for the support from the Siphiwe Tshabalala Foundation and commended the security guards for their work. He emphasised his desire to empower them through proper training so they can protect and defend themselves.
“I will do my best to assist them. The work they do is vital. It is cold now, but they do not sleep, ensuring the streets are safe. I want to commend them for the tournament and the broader community,” said Tshabalala.
After the tournament, the foundation returns to give back to the school.
By Thembisa Shologu
