GEORGE SPORT NEWS - The finals in the Geolfa Junior League made for an exciting day at the Lawaaikamp Stadium last Saturday, 8 December. The u.13 development team of Silver Stars FC proved that the effort invested in them had been worthwhile.
After winning 25 out of the 28 games they played and drawing three, they were crowned as the u.13 champions, with Kamvalethu Magala scoring the goal that clinched their 1-0 victory over Black Cats u.13.
Silver Stars football club hails from the dusty streets of Silver Town in Thembalethu.
The many hardships that trouble Silver Town - 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 Silver Stars development side was started as a response to these problems that prevail in the area.
The team was started by Rachel Oliphant, a woman who is passionate about football development in their area, to help keep children out of unsavoury activities.
Oliphant says they are very pleased with how the team has grown and how it has inspired many kids to play soccer. "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 do to with their time," said Oliphant.
They are preparing the kids not only to be football stars, but also to excel academically. "We are like parents to them. We are always motivating them to work hard in order to achieve better things in life." Oliphant said they are looking forward to seeing more support from the local businesses and from the parents.
Black Cats u.15 celebrate winning the title for the second time.Black Cats the u.15 champions
In the u.15 category, the Black Cats development team defended their title and were crowned as the champions for the second time. Black Cats is one of the best teams in terms of developing good players.
Speaking after the finals, Xolani Mabele, coordinator of the Juniors League, thanked all the clubs that took part in the league. "It was not an easy task and required hard work from the Geolfa executive team," he said. "Congratulations to the champions, Silver Stars u.13 and Black Cats u.15!"
Mabele said it is his wish that local stakeholders will support these kids and give them the opportunity to become professional players. He also called on parents to attend the games and support their children as they grow up.
A Silver Stars player (in red) fighting a Black Cats player for the ball in the u.13 game.
Black Cats u.15 winger Hlumelo Mandla on the ball.'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'
