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The talented squad, made up of 10 players and three coaches from Eldorado Park and Soweto, will compete in the Under-13 division of the continental tournament taking place from 8 to 11 July 2026.
Speaking at OR Tambo International Airport before the team’s departure, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko congratulated the young athletes on their remarkable achievement and encouraged them to proudly fly the South African flag.
“Go and make South Africa proud. You have already proven that with hard work, discipline and determination, anything is possible. We are proud of you, and we wish you every success as you compete against the best young talent on the continent,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The MEC said the team’s success demonstrates the importance of investing in young people through community development programmes that provide opportunities beyond the classroom.
“As government, we remain committed to protecting and empowering children by supporting programmes offered through Non-Profit Organisations and community-based initiatives that restore hope, dignity and purpose. Sport is one of the most effective tools for keeping young people positively engaged, building confidence and steering them away from social ills,” she said.
She added that the Department will continue encouraging organisations working with children and youth to incorporate sporting and recreational programmes into their services as part of broader efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent substance abuse, crime and other social challenges.Also addressing the team, City of Johannesburg Speaker Margaret Arnold said the Eagles’ achievement was a proud moment for Eldorado Park.
“This is a significant achievement for our children. Eldorado Park is often associated with challenges such as substance abuse and crime, but today these young athletes are showing the country and the continent what our community is capable of. They are proof that, when young people are given opportunities and support, they can excel and inspire others to dream bigger,” she said.
The Eagles are part of the Come Back Missions Youth Development Initiative, funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, which focuses on awareness, prevention and early intervention programmes for young people. After winning the Under-13 division of the Youth American Flag Football League (YAFFL), the team earned the honour of representing South Africa at the NFL Flag Africa Tournament in Nairobi.
Hosted by the National Football League (NFL) through its globalNFL Flag programme, the tournament brings together Under-13 teams from South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Egypt to celebrate the growth of flag football across the continent. Men’s and women’s national flag football teams will also compete during the event.
Flag football is the non-contact version of American football and is one of the world’s fastest-growing youth sports, promoting teamwork, inclusion, discipline and healthy competition.
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