Benny’s Care Sports Academy were crowned the provincial champions of the Kay Motsepe U/17 school tournament in Polokwane on Saturday. They defeated SD Hlumalo High 2-0 in the final.

In the thrilling final, the enthusiastic young players showcased their exceptional football skills, dribbling, passing, and kicking their way to victory. Benny’s have established a tradition of reaching the national final in this tournament. The team will now test their mettle against the other provincial winners during the national championship scheduled from 2 to 7 October in Gauteng.

Benny’s Care’s coach, Mr Mbishi Mokwena, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance during the games. “The boys gave their best, and we have a good understanding,” he commented. He emphasised that their goal was to use the tournament as a stepping stone to the national championship. “Apart from the high stakes in the competition, it’s time for us to fulfil our promise of bringing the national silverware home,” he said.

Mokwena said that they had a squad with all the necessary ingredients to win the national championship this year. “I’ve told my boys that we can perform well this year if we stay focused and give our best. We are ready for the national final. Winning this year’s national final will not only make us proud but also bring pride to our community, school, and province,” said Mokwena.

The chairperson of Vhembe School Sports, Dr Samuel Tshigomana, commended the Motsepe Foundation for sponsoring school football. “I’m very proud that we have nurtured young people of genuine quality,” he remarked.

Benny’s Care received a trophy, a cheque for R150,000, and gold medals. The national championship winners will take home R3-million.