Pupils play like champs
Ntombentsha Msutu
A TOTAL of 10 Motherwell-based primary schools battled it out at the finals of the 2013 Spur Masidlale Soccer League in NU2 stadium.
The schools were Imbasa; Mboniselo, Vukanibantu; Khulile; Elufefeni; Canzibe; Nxanelwimfundo; Vezubuhle; Mdengentonga, and Siyaphambili.
Teachers, local coaches and players participated in a nine-week series during which under-13 boys' and girls' teams from the 10 competing schools in each region tried their best to add points to the log and secure a place in the finals. Each team comprised of seven players with three substitutes.
Three points were awarded for a win and two points for a draw, while a loss did not receive any points.
The boys' and girls' teams which won the 2013 Spur Masidlale Soccer League title both came from Imbasa Primary School in NU12.
Teacher of the winning school, Selby Vumile Madikane, said they were very happy about winning because last year they did not get a chance to enter.
"Last year we had to play in another league. This year, we entered and won," he said.
"It was very tough because many schools we compete against play with dedication as they know we are one of the best.
"We were proud of the girls' team as well because it was their first time playing a league match."
Not only will the winning team be treated to a Spur lunch, but they will also attend a PSL game as team mascots.
Schools are rotated annually to ensure that as many children as possible can benefit from the life-enriching Spur Masidlale programme.
Participants received new Spur-branded Umbro kits at the launch as well as soccer balls and Spur burgers at the finals.
According to Spur Group's Khakhi Diala, they are extremely excited about the success of the past season.
"We definitely started from humble beginnings with 12 one-day coaching clinics in 2005, but the league has grown steadily and has highlighted the huge need for initiatives that provide a platform for youth development.