The 2017 edition of the Samora Mudogwa Cup soccer tournament was officially launched during a ceremony at the Vhafamadi Hotel in Sibasa last Saturday.
Just like last year, four teams from Muraga and the surrounding areas will take part in this year's tournament. Teams that will take part in the tournament are Muraga Hazard Hotspurs, Sterkstroom Real Chiefs, Banyini Flying Swallows and Mukoma Young Stars.
A representative from the sponsors, Mr Jeff Tshanwakani, said that the sponsorship would increase with time and that the number of the participating teams would also increase next year. A local ward councillor, Cllr TD Mamushiana, stated that the Thulamela Municipality would ensure that the ground was in a good state before the day of the tournament.
A local traditional leader, Vhakoma Vho-Mmbodi, praised the sponsors and the organisers for the annual event. He reiterated the fact that sport has the power to keep the youth away from drug and alcohol abuse and other social ills.
This year's champions will receive R5 000, a soccer kit, a floating trophy, gold medals and a soccer ball. The runners-up will receive R 2500, a soccer kit, silver medals and a soccer ball. The two teams that will lose the first-round matches will each take home a consolation prize of R500 and a soccer ball.
The best player in the tournament, the top goal scorer, the best goalkeeper and the best supporter will each receive R200 and a trophy.
The toss for the semifinal matches were conducted during the ceremony. Banyini Flying Swallows will play against Sterkstroom Real Chiefs. while Muraga Hazard Hotspurs will meet Mukoma Young Stars. The tournament will be played at the Muraga grounds on Saturday, September 23.