Discovery and the Soweto Football Association (South African Football Association) are now on day 19 of hosting nearly 3000 footballers at the world class Shapa Soweto. The 120-team tournament has been a welcomed mix of competitive grit, raw talent, admirable pizazz and dogged determination, which is exactly why the tournament is treasured, true and treated with the upmost respect so says Deon Curtis, Senior Marketing Manager for Sponsorships at Discovery.
“We’ve been treated to a football festival of the highest standard thus far. You can see what this tournament means to the people and how it enriches their lives whether a player, coach, or supporter. This tournament extends far beyond the painted white lines, and Discovery is honoured to play our part in bringing the game to the people. To all the teams that will crack the quarters, we wish you well: Play hard and play fair.”
Phil Mogodi, SAFA Johannesburg President, says that the tournament has grown exponentially, with the need for an u15 category now being spoken about in the hallways.
“Not so long ago, we didn’t have an u17 category. Now, we have 40 teams competing from Mpumalanga, Kwa-Zulu Natal, Limpopo and many other provinces. Players who have participated in this tournament are now plying their trade on the global stage. As a result of such success, we are now seeing the need for an under 15 category in future tournaments – and when you see the talent on display year after year, you understand why. The quality of the womens category is something I am personally proud of, and we hope that those PSL teams with women’s teams will make a note of attending our tournament and scouting the talent on display, because it certainly is of admirable standard. We are giving more energy to womens football, so that they can deservedly grow.”
When it comes to the semi’s and finals, Mogodi reminds fans to come early and obey the rules as security will be tight;
“We extend a warm welcome to all from far and wide but note that our security will be tight, and we will not tolerate any misbehaviour. This is a tournament by the people, for the people, and on behalf of our valued headline partners Discovery as well as SAFA Johannesburg, we urge all to come and peacefully enjoy the very best diski football this country has to offer.”
To follow the live action, follow @Discovery_SA Facebook page and show
