Nie Cele
One of the most popular, effervescent and pulsating football tournament will once again lit the Nike Fitness Centre in Klipspruit, Soweto this festive season, thanks to Discovery.
Atleast 64 teams will lock horns and battle it out for the coveted trophy and a substantial prize money in an exciting 17th edition of the Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge.
Organizers told the media at a launch in Sandton, this annual Soweto’s most loved diski tournament will engage and excite the community nonstop from the 1st to the 29th of December 2019.
Furthermore, as with previous years, the tournament is open to local U17 and senior teams of both men and women.
At the launch, Desiree Ellis, current Banyana Banyana head coach, told the packed audience that Mzansi’s football need to get better technically.
“We are not where we should be.”
Ellis also lauded Discovery for leading the pack and elevating women’s football in South Africa.
“It is very inspirational to have corporates who are committed to uplifting communities through fitness while investing in women’s football.
“Discovery introduced a women’s league years back and it has uplifted local women’s teams and players from across the country who play to keep fit. I regularly attend the games for the atmosphere, but more importantly, I get to witness raw talent on display.”
Iona Maclean Discovery’s Head of Experiential Marketing and Sponsorships, told the packed auditorium, this tourney has a huge impact on communities because it brings them together young and old.
“For many communities, the beautiful game is not just kicking a football from one post to the other. It is a way of keeping fit and living an active lifestyle. At Discovery, we aim to motivate the community to move more and live healthier, and to do so through their passion for football,” She said.
Phil Mogodi, President of the Soweto Football Association (SFA),is on record arguing that, the success of this tournament is the result of the brand’s solid partnership with the (SFA), which facilitates the football administration.
“In addition to providing work opportunities and entertainment for the community, this tournament has provided a solid foundation for football players. The current crop of players in the top flight have all played in this tournament as amateurs and even as professionals.
“There is a rich football story that needs to be told about the community of Soweto and this is how we tell that story. Football is not only about the teams that play , it is about inspiring others to move forward, creating opportunities and uplifting our communities, and through this tournament with Discovery, we are doing exactly that.”
Mogodi also challenged spectators to respect the rules of Football.
“You know where to report when you have complains,” He said.
Willie Mooka, Safa Representative, argued, what Discovery is doing is something the country needs in developing Football.
Discovery Brand Manager, Mcebisi Mtshali, told this publication on the sidelines his organization was trying to use the tourney as a vitality pledge.
“We want communities to be involved as spectators and ambassadors. We want people to come and have fun and enjoy the safest festive season,” Mtshali pointed.
DID YOU KNOW?
- Some of the country’s seasoned players came from this tournament’s ranks.
- The endless list include Sibusiso Vilakazi, Keagan Dolly, Lyle Foster, Percy Tau, Thulani Serero and Reneilwe Letsholonyane.
- Sneke Chilliers FC are the 2018 champions.
- Gates will open at 9am daily and entry is free.
To stay updated on the tournamrnt, follow Discovery Walter Sisulu Soccer Challenge 2019 on Facebook and use the hashtag #DWSSC19 across platforms to follow all the action.
