Maila Academy were crowned winners of the Ward 20 and 21 soccer tournament, sponsored by Moses Tseli, after beating Maila Action Killers 1-0 in the final at Phophi Stadium in Vleifontein on Saturday.
The champions took home R5,000, a soccer kit, gold medals and a floating trophy. Runners-up Action Killers received R3,000, silver medals and a kit, while Vleifontein United and Munzhedzi Blue Stars each earned R1,000.
Sponsor Moses Tseli said supporting local tournaments was vital for sports development. "We have grown young people of real quality," he said, adding that he expected some players to gain international recognition.
Cllr Tshiwela Mushandana stressed the importance of education for young athletes. "You can be a star today and be written off tomorrow. Education will never forsake you, and you can bank on it," she said. She also urged businesspeople to back local sports initiatives.