Chief Livhuwani Matsila of the Chief Livhuwani Matsila Foundation has pledged to continue sponsoring the local soccer tournament. The announcement was made during the prize-giving ceremony of the Matsila Soccer Tournament, held at the Majozi Mathembeni grounds on 15 June.
The event was attended by Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane, who praised the foundation's efforts to uplift local communities through sport.
Chief Matsila encouraged young people to steer clear of drugs and alcohol and to remain law-abiding. He said the country's economy would thrive if the youth avoided criminal activities, adding that this would also help to attract investors.
"I think soccer coaches in the country will do well to visit our areas and tap talent as good soccer is played here," he said. He commended the performance of the youngsters from various schools who took part in the tournament, noting that it was only a matter of time before some of them advanced to professional leagues.
Minister Nkabane called on the business sector to support community-based initiatives. "No amount of words could express my appreciation for what foundations such as the Matsila Foundation are doing for them," she said.
Following the final match, Vhangani FC were crowned champions. They received R35,000 in prize money, a new soccer kit, a floating trophy and gold medals after defeating Master KG 8-7 in a penalty shootout. The teams had played to a 2-2 draw in regular time.
Master KG walked away with R25,000, a soccer kit and silver medals.
Bayern Masukume, who finished third, received R15,000 and a soccer kit, while Mudziafera Blue Eagles, who ended fourth, took home R10,000, a kit and a ball. Teams that finished in fifth to eighth position each received R5,000.