Silver Stars a hope for tomorrow

GEORGE NEWS - The u.13 Silvers Stars team, which hails from the dusty streets of Silver Town in Thembalethu, is proving its worth in the Geolfa football developing league.

The many hardships that trouble Silver Town - protests and other social ills such as crime and drugs - haven't managed to extinguish the spirit of these young stars who want to make it big in life.

The u.13 Silver Stars team was started as a response to these problems that prevail in the area.

Despite the challenges, the team has managed to win two trophies in a space of four weeks and is now seated comfortably in position two in the Geolfa league.

The team was started by Rachel Olifant, a woman who is passionate about football development in their area. Her idea was to use football to take children out of unsavoury activities in the area.

She says they are very pleased with how the team has grown and how it has inspired many kids to play football.

"For the team to win trophies is a bonus to us, as we wanted to serve our community through this team and take children off the streets and give them something better to do with their time," said Olifant.

She said they are preparing the kids not only to be football stars but also to excel in their academics.

"At the very same time we are parents to them; we are always motivating them to work hard in order to achieve better things in life. We are looking forward to seeing more support from the parents and the community," said Olifant.