U13 Futbol Tournament
May 17, 2022

On Saturday 14 May 2022 eight CoolPlay teams met up at the Century City Fives Futbol courts. Teams came from Stellenbosch (Pieter Langeveld), Masiphumelele (Ukhanyo) and from the newly launched CoolPlay school in District Six (Zonnebloem Girls and Boys and Walmer Estate Primary). According to one of the coaches from Masiphumelele – “My players couldn’t sleep last night because they were so excited.” For many of the 120 learners who attended the day, this was the first time that they had been anywhere near Century City and for the two participating girls’ teams, this was one of the first times they were able to pitch their skills against an opposition team.

To add to the excitement, SuperSport Schools were streaming the event live on the SuperSport Schools app. The very idea of having a camera following the games meant that all the 10-minute matches were hotly contested and learners will be able to enjoy the special feeling of watching themselves in action.

As in the typical CoolPlay Way, competition was one thing, but opportunities for life lessons and learning were plentiful. Especially for the U13 boys from Pieter Langeveld (Stellenbosh) and the U13 Girls from Ukhanyo Primary (Masiphumelele) who took to the field against one another. In ten quick minutes, 4 goals were scored with the final score line 2-2. The Ukhanyo Primary Girls were energetically supported by their previous opponents from Zonnebloem Girls – a true display of the CoolPlay Way. The boys, suitably impressed with the girl’s performance had to dig deep to accept the tie but remained respectful and shook hands with each player after the final whistle.

Zonnebloem Girls U13 Soccer Team – Winners of the Johan Schlebusch Shield

Awards were handed out to the top girls’ and boys’ sides, best positional players as well as the recognition of the second ever team to receive the Johan Schlebusch Shield for displaying team spirit in the CoolPlay Way. This went to Zonnebloem Girls Primary team who displayed enthusiasm and team spirit throughout the day. A delicious meal was then served – with huge thanks to Mrs Barends for donating the pasta salad and Butchers Market for the chicken.

An all-round success which wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated CoolPlay Management and Champions with special thanks to Fives Futbol for their hospitality and generosity.

We still have a few more weekend tournaments and clinics to come, so reach out to tori@coolplay.co.za if you’d like to support in any way.