Seniors go for the round ball

NELSON Mandela Bay's over-60s soccer team sweated it out on the Gelvandale sport grounds yesterday as they prepared for their league tournament in the annual Golden Games at the end of the month.

Prince Becana, 74, of Zwide, runs the centre with his 60-to-70-year-old teammates as they prepare to show the rest of the province that old certainly does not mean cold.

Team captain Aubrey "Fishy" Simon, 65, of Gelvandale, said his team would take part in the soccer tournament in the older person's games from September 25 to 27. If the grey-haired soccer stars win, they will be up against the country's finest over-60 players later this year.

"Many of the team members have never played the game before, but my friend Mervin and I teach these tatas the basics of passing the ball, how to keep it grounded, and share tips on keeping goal," Simon said.

"Of course, not all of them are as fit as I am, so we play for 20 minutes, [then take a] water break."

While yesterday's practice session did not resemble the tough sit-ups, dribbles and block tackles of younger players' sessions, the men left their hearts on the field.

For Bacana, kicking ball at 74 keeps him young and "with it". He said: "In Zwide, the young men call me their friend because they know I keep fit. I like soccer. It keeps the ailments [at bay]. I've only scored one goal this season, but I hope to show our opponents in the Golden Games what I'm made of."

The team will be up against over-60s from East London, King William's Town and Transkeian townships in the Golden Games. - Alvené du Plessis