The Office of the Executive Mayor in its commitment to playing a role in sports development, realised that supporting such initiatives spur on talented young players to make their dreams come true if the past weeks of talent displayed is anything to go by.
Since its inception in 2016 by former Executive Mayor Calvin Seerane, the tournament has unearthed players of calibre such as Lucky Baloyi, Sici Shelembe, Samora Langwe, Sipho Zwane and Vusi Agogo, to name just a few.
It is in this spirit and aligned longer term goal that the tournament remains one of the major sport development instruments in Mogale City intended to elevate players to elite structures whilst developing local sports, encouraging a healthy lifestyle amongst youth and adults, social cohesion and taking our youth off the streets in the townships.
Speaking from the touchlines of this years’ tournament, former Jomo Cosmos and Bafana Bafana defender-cum-midfielder Sammy Magalefa who also plied his trade for a short while in Greece, said Mogale City should host more sporting events such as the Mayor’s Cup. Not only was the tournament an opportunity for youngsters to showcase their talent, but it was also a chance to nurture holistic development, because players are challenged mentally, socially, and physically – Magalefa said.
Joseph ‘’Duku Duku’’ Makhanya, former Orlando Pirates midfield maestro and founder of Kagiso Porto Academy said the Mayor’s Cup encourages young people to participate in extra mural activities and stay away from crime and other social ills. He said these tournaments also assist coaches to scout for players who get the opportunity to play in elite leagues.
So far, the tournament has progressed towards the semi-finals in all divisions which will be held at the Kagiso Sports Complex on 28 October 2023. The finals and prize giving ceremony will be held on 29 October 2023 at the Munsieville Sports Complex.