The number of participating teams in the Sun Villa Soccer Challenge has been confirmed, with the final scheduled to take place from 21 to 28 December at Malonga.
According to one of the organisers, Mr Lutendo Matimbi, 16 teams have confirmed their participation in the competition. The teams are: Malonga United, SM Brothers, Hanani Home Fighters, Kalahari FC, Tshivhazwaulu Peace Makers, Tshivhulana FC, Tshimbupfe Disco Stars, Vusa FC, Mapayeni United Gladiators, Tomu United, Mabidi Mighty Green, Manoni Fighting Cats, Ndiitwani Shooting Stars, Mudziafera Blue Eagles, Makovha All Stars, and Kuruleni Happy Fighters.
Matimbi revealed that the winning team will take home R50,000, two soccer kits, a floating trophy, and gold medals. The runners-up will receive R20,000, soccer kits, and silver medals, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will be awarded R5,000 and a soccer kit each.
He expressed pride in hosting the annual event, emphasising its value to the community. "The importance of sport in the lives of young people goes far beyond the basic answer that it keeps kids off the streets. While it does achieve this, it also instils lessons that are essential for life," he said.
Matimbi highlighted that sport teaches values such as discipline, responsibility, self-confidence, sacrifice, and accountability. "It is up to the community, parents, teachers, sports teams, traditional leaders, and schools to help nurture and instil these qualities in the lives of young people," he added.