Mauluma Young Eagles were crowned the new champions of the Sinthumule/Kutama Community Development soccer and netball challenge when they beat Matanda Rockers 1-0 in the final match at Ravele on New Years' Day.
The sponsor, Chief Livhuwani Matsila, said that identifying future stars at grassroots level was important. Matsila revealed that the company will continue to sponsor the rural soccer tournament next season. According to him, when he decided to sponsor the event, it clearly indicated that he wanted to serve members of the community by bringing the development of sport in the area.
The champions, Mauluma Young Eagles FC, received R20 000, a new soccer kit, gold medals and a floating trophy. The runners-up, Matanda Rockers, went home with R8 000, a new soccer kit and silver medals. The third prize of R5 000 and bronze medals was collected by Wiseman FC. Muduluni Rising Stars finished the tournament in the fourth position and received R4 000.
All 48 teams received money, from R1 400 to R400, depending on their position.
Magau Netball Club were the champions and received R2 500, a floating trophy, netball kit and gold medals. Ravele Netball Club (second) received R1 500, silver medals and a netball kit.