The number of participating teams in the annual Mabena Soccer challenge has been confirmed, and the final will be played on 25 September.
According to one of the organisers, Ms Mercy Rambau, 16 teams have confirmed that they will take part in the competition. The teams are: Masakona Tigers, Makhitha Oscar Stars, Mashamba Benfica, Mashamba United Brothers, Mukondeni Young Chiefs, Dipeni FC, Madadzhi Eversmiling, Magau United, Muwaweni Lucky Stars, Sambandou United Professionals, Tshivhuyuni 2 4 Joy, Madridtas FC, Mashamba Soccer Academy, Bokisi Scientist, Mukondeni Shooting Stars and Malumash FC.
Rambau said that the winning team would receive R30 000, two soccer kits, a floating trophy and gold medals. The runners-up will go home with R20 000, two soccer kits and silver medals. The third prize will be R10 000, a soccer kit and bronze medals. The fourth-placed team will get R5 000 and a soccer kit.
She said that the organisers were very proud to host the annual event. "The importance of sport in the life of young people goes much further than the basic answer that it keeps kids off the streets. It does in fact keep young people off the streets, but it also instils lessons that are essential in the life of a human being," she said.
She added that, through sports, people could learn values such as discipline, responsibility, self-confidence, sacrifice, and accountability. "It is up to the community, parents, teachers, sports teams, traditional leaders and schools to help mould, develop and instil these qualities into the lives of young people."
She said that the draw to decide the fixtures would be held on Sunday, 11 September, at Mashamba Soccer Academy's grounds at 13:00.