Vhembe's granny soccer team win trophy at Limpopo Golden Games

Vhembe’s “granny” soccer team achieved remarkable success by winning the soccer category at the Limpopo Golden Games, defeating the Mopani District team 4-0 in the final. The tournament, designed to engage senior citizens in sporting activities, took place at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on 15 November.

Competitors from different regions, all aged 60 or older, participated in various events, including duck walk, dress-up, soccer, athletics, goal shooting, pegging washing pegs, passing the ball, ring the stick, and many other activities.

Mr Eric Ligudu, a member of the Vhembe team, expressed his admiration for the commitment displayed by all the teams. “This year, the players came out with different techniques, and we should all be proud of them. They have all done very well, compared to last year’s games, and this goes a long way to display that we are improving as a municipality.”

He said everyone was impressed with the team’s achievement. “For the first time in the history of the Golden Games, a Vhembe team managed to take the first position and win gold medals. We are excited that our hard work and endless training had indeed paid off. Our vision is to win as many medals as possible during future tournaments.”

MEC for Sport, Art, and Culture Nakedi Sibanda Kekana expressed her satisfaction that more senior citizens were engaging in sports. “Besides keeping yourselves fit, you lower the chances of being attacked by opportunistic diseases. Playing together promotes teamwork, unity, and friendship. When you participate in these games, you forget about your worries and enjoy life with your peers.”

She encouraged other senior citizens to participate in sports in their respective municipalities, emphasising that it should not be solely about competition but about living a healthy lifestyle and staying fit. “If you keep yourself fit at all times, chances are that your life will be prolonged, and you will be able to think positively and constructively.”

Date:23 November 2023

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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