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EZEKIEL PHALANA
The community of Soshanguve came alive with excitement and pride as young sporting stars took centre stage at the K. Motsepe Cup Finals, a dynamic partnership between Sanlam, the Department of Basic Education, the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, and the South African Football Association (SAFA).
This year’s tournament brought together some of South Africa’s most promising young football talents, with teams competing fiercely in the Under-13 (Boys and Girls) and Under-19 categories. The energy, skill, and sportsmanship on display were a true testament to the power of sport to unite, uplift, and inspire communities.
The finals concluded with an inspiring awards and cup ceremony, honouring the top three positions in each age group. The event not only celebrated sporting excellence but also underscored the importance of discipline, teamwork, and education in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Adding to the day’s excitement, the ceremony was attended by distinguished guests and sporting icons, including former professional footballers Hlompho Kekana, Teko Modise and Tiyani Mabunda whose presence motivated the young athletes to dream beyond limits. Mr. Bongani Zondi, representing the Department of Basic Education, alongside Sanlam representatives Nkazimulo Sokhulu, commended the players for their passion and perseverance, reaffirming the shared commitment to youth development through sport and education.
“The K. Motsepe Cup is more than a football tournament — it is a platform for nurturing dreams, building confidence, and creating opportunities for our young people,” said Mr. Bongani Zondi. “Through partnerships like these, we are investing not just in sport, but in the future of our nation.”
Sanlam, a proud co-sponsor, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the company’s dedication to empowering youth and supporting holistic community growth through meaningful partnerships.
The K. Motsepe Cup continues to stand as a shining example of how collaboration between the private sector, government, and sporting bodies can create impactful opportunities for young South Africans — on and off the field.
As the sun set over Soshanguve, one thing was clear: the spirit of youth excellence and community pride is alive and thriving. The future of South African football — and its leaders — is brighter than ever.
Three deference provinces which is Mpumalanga, Free-state and Gauteng schools — St. Marks Academy, Donaldson Primary School, and Queenswood Laerskool — have emerged victorious at the Sanlam Kay Motsepe Provincial Football Championships, proudly sponsored by Sanlam and the Motsepe Foundation.
The prestigious competition, one of South Africa’s largest school sports tournaments, celebrates excellence in youth sport while empowering schools through substantial prize funding for development and infrastructure.
St. Marks Academy claimed top honours in the Under-19 Boys’ category, showcasing remarkable skill, teamwork, and discipline throughout the tournament. Their consistent dominance in school football continues to set a benchmark for excellence in the province.
In the Under-13 Boys’ division, Queenswood Laerskool emerged champions after a thrilling final that highlighted the strength of Pretoria’s young football talent.
On the Girls’ side,St. ANNE’S Primary School from Virginia small township in Welkom lifted the Under-13 trophy, demonstrating that the future of women’s football in South Africa is bright.
Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, speaking on behalf of the Motsepe Foundation, congratulated the winners, emphasising that “the Foundation’s investment in school sports aims not only to nurture champions on the field but also to provide long-term educational and community benefits.”
The Sanlam Kay Motsepe Schools Championships offer more than just medals and trophies — winners receive significant financial prizes, with up to R3 million allocated toward school development projects, facilities, and educational initiatives.
“These young athletes represent the next generation of South African excellence,” said a Sanlam representative Nkazimulo Sokhulu. “We are proud to stand alongside the Motsepe Foundation in providing opportunities that shape both futures and communities.”
Images by BackpagePix