The 20th edition of the Kay Motsepe Schools Championship National Football Finals concluded with a spectacular display of young talent and competitive spirit on Saturday afternoon.
Held at the Bergsig Academy in the North West, the tournament showcased the future of South African football. Three teams across three divisions—Under-19 Boys, U-13 Boys, and Girls—emerged victorious, securing a combined prize of R8.6 million in infrastructure development.
The finals were marked by high-scoring matches, captivating the vibrant crowd with their attacking prowess. A total of 11 goals were scored across the three championship games, providing thrilling entertainment for all in attendance.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Kay Motsepe Schools Championship fostered a sense of belonging and empowerment among the participating schools. The tournament served as a platform for learners to develop their confidence, self-esteem, and football skills, setting them up for future success both on and off the field.
In the first final of the day in the U-13 Boys division, Queenswood Laerskool from Gauteng claimed the national championship title after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over St. Annes Primary School of Free State.
Queenswood’s triumph earned them a R1 million infrastructure development grant, courtesy of Sanlam and the Motsepe Foundation. Coach Lunga Nobela expressed his pride in his team and commended the tournament organizers for introducing the U-13 Boys and Girls divisions.
FUTURE STARS EMERGE VICTORIOUS IN KAY MOTSEPE TOURNAMENT
Meanwhile, the inaugural U-13 Girls National Championship Finals witnessed a dominant performance from Lwazi Primary of the Western Cape, who cruised to a 5-0 victory over Mamontoeng Primary of the Eastern Cape. Lwazi’s clinical attacking display and solid defensive work proved too much for their opponents.
Lwazi Primary coach Xolile Madikane highlighted the tournament’s importance in keeping children active, away from the streets and contributing to community development.
He said the R1 million prize money will improve the school’s football facilities and benefit the entire community.
In the big final for the day in the U-19 Boys division, Northern Academy of Limpopo emerged as champions, defeating Eletsa Secondary from North West 2-1. Northern Academy’s victory secured them a substantial R3 million infrastructure development grant.
Therefore, Mukwevho Hendrick, coach of Northern Academy, believes the tournament was a resounding success, emphasizing the significant benefits that many schools and communities will reap thanks to the Motsepe Foundation founded by Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe and her husband, Dr Patrice Motsepe, who is the CAF president and Mamelodi Sundowns owner.
“Many teams that we played in the competition don’t have facilities with the money they can build and great a better future for kids in school and football as well,” he said.
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