Primary and secondary schools in Mashau and the surrounding areas will soon participate in a netball and soccer tournament. It is sponsored by Mjayeli and Gingirikani Security Services and was launched last Friday.
Mr Jones Maphalaphathwa, who represented the two security companies, said that they were ploughing back into the community and wanted to help to develop young players from grassroots level.
The secretary of the organising committee, Mr Shumani Ramadi, described Mjayeli and Gingirikani as selfless and caring community developers. He said it was painful to see that many businesspeople did not plough anything back into the community. According to him, most of the soccer stars of yesterday are now penniless after a life of glory.
"I have come to realize that a soccer career is very short and that many have hit hard times after being in the limelight and leading a life of glamour," he said.
He encouraged the youngsters to take education seriously and secure their future through education.
The circuit manager of education of Vhuronga II, Mr Nnditsheni Ramugondo, said the circuits were very grateful for a tournament of this magnitude. "We believe it came at the right moment as it will keep people occupied during this period of the year," he said.
All primary and secondary schools will get netball and soccer kits and the winners will get cash prizes, balls, medals and trophies.