MAHIKENG MAIL - MAHIKENG: A once in a lifetime opportunity was given to over 200 learners in the North West province to be part of the FC Future and LALIGA tournament which seeks to nurture grassroots talent.
The tournament, which focuses on the Under 15 football development of boys and girls, hosted learners at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus in Rustenburg for physical matches based on the innovative 5v5 Rush mode featured in the EA SPORTS FC 25 video game.
Selected learners over the weekend were four boys: Masilo Goitseone, Malatsi Orateng, Tebogo Montshing and Olerato Ramafi and four girls: Boitshepo Mfaladi, Kgatliso Raseloma, Mamonyana Mpondo and Dineo Potso - who will all travel to Madrid, Spain for a once-in-a-lifetime training camp with LALIGA and its clubs.
The selection was based on not only their sporting performance, but also their ability to display and embody key values such as commitment, solidarity and effort. Selected learners also stand a chance to be part of the global tournament in Spain.
Addressing the media at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus, Tresor Penku, Managing Director of LALIGA Africa said, “Boosting and empowering local communities through grassroots football has been a constant of LALIGA’s work here in South Africa for many years. EA SPORTS FC FUTURES is a unique opportunity to continue investing in community talent and to give hundreds of children here, as well as thousands across the planet, the chance to receive training and guidance from some of the very best coaches in the world”.
FC FUTURES has assisted communities with refurbishing community football pitches in disadvantaged areas, ensuring safe and accessible spaces for young players. Recent projects have been completed in Cape Town, South Africa; Malaga, Spain; Cheng San-Seletar, Singapore; and Guadalajara, Mexico.
This tournament marks a continuation of EA SPORTS and LALIGA’s ongoing investment in South African grassroots football, further solidifying their commitment to developing the next generation of talent.
Emile Smith, Managing Director of Royal Bafokeng Sports said, “For Royal Bafokeng Sports it’s a privilege to have partners of the stature of LALIGA and EA SPORTS with a desire to make a really meaningful contribution to the development of sport through grassroots.
“Through Next Gen Draft, we can really give back to the community and South Africa at large, through the medium of sports, providing opportunities for boys and girls to succeed.”
