It Takes a Village – Masandawana Give Back to the Community Through Awe-inspiring Football Clinics

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

MASANDAWANA GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY THROUGH AWE-INSPIRING FOOTBALL CLINICS

Mothobi Mvala with kids that attended the coaching clinic in his hometown (Theunissen)

Author: Sijabulile Ndlovu

"Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand." - Nelson Mandela

The essence of a community lies in understanding the significance of giving back to others. As a philanthropic organisation, Mamelodi Sundowns aims to uplift South African communities by approaching each day with the conviction that no challenge is too great to overcome.

In the spirit of giving back to the community, Masandawana players Teboho Mokoena, Mothobi Mvala, and Neo Maema conducted awe-inspiring football coaching clinics in their respective hometowns. With the holistic development of the youth at heart, the star athletes joined forces with the football club to provide soccer balls and other football gear to participants.

Moreover, the football clinics promoted the notion of honouring the youth’s talent and abilities, aside from academic prowess.

The interactive coaching clinics provided in-depth knowledge about a wide range of key psychological skills and strategies such as effective leadership, working with constituents (teammates and the technical team), as well as improving team performance through communication. Furthermore, the football clinics provided practical strategies to improve performance and build confidence.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Star Athletes – Teboho Mokoena's Football Clinic in Bloemfontein, Free State

To motivate young aspiring football players, PSL (Premier Soccer League) player of the season Teboho Mokoena hosted a coaching clinic in Bloemfontein, Free State. Envisioned by the Teboho Mokoena Foundation, the initiative was aimed at encouraging discipline and hope through football. Aimed at inspiring the youth, Masandawa star player Grant Kekana, as well as former skipper, Hlompho Kekana were part of the dignitaries who attended the event.

Speaking about the coaching clinic's turnout, Teboho Mokoena expressed great contentment with its outcome. The midfield maestro also shared his hopes and dreams for upcoming football players from his hometown. "My biggest dream is to see players from the Free State playing professional football and reaching great heights. Discipline and hard work are the best way to achieve success in football. I would also advise young players to find a balance between school and their careers," expressed Mokoena.

Neo Maema during his foundation's clinic

"If you do the work, you get rewarded. There are no shortcuts in life." - Michael Jordan

Uniting the Community & Nurturing Young Talent – Neo Maema's Football Clinic in Heidedal, Bloemfontein

Neo Maema, affectionately known as ‘Billy’ organised a heartening football clinic in his hometown, Heidedal, Bloemfontein. Speaking about the football clinic's objective, Maema expressed that he wanted to create a safe recreational outlet for his community. "Youth unemployment and substance abuse are quite prevalent in Heidedal. I wanted to create a positive outlet for people to express themselves. Football is a great way to do that," said Maema.

The Masandawana player shared that his coaching clinic was aimed at educating attendees about the basics of football. Maema emphasised the importance of nurturing young players from the grassroots as Billy was scouted by Bloemfontein Celtic at the Ba2cada games. Furthermore, the prolific player shared his desire to prepare aspiring players for a professional career in topflight domestic football.

In parting, Neo Maema expressed his sincere gratitude to the Mostepe family, as well as the rest of Mamelodi Sundowns for supporting his initiative. "I was nervous about hosting the coaching clinic since it was my first one. However, the support from the Masandawana family reminded me that I am not on this journey alone. I am immensely grateful for the support," expressed Maema.

Tebogo Mokoena handing over certificates after the clinic

"It takes a village to raise a child." - African Proverb

A Beacon of Hope – Mothobi Mvala's Football Clinic in Theunissen, Free State

Your background should not define you. That was the sentiment echoed by Mamelodi Sundowns defender, Mothobi Mvala's football clinic hosted in Theunissen, Free State.

Aimed at uplifting the youth, the awe-inspiring clinic catered to Under 13 and Under 15 aspiring footballers. Speaking about the football clinic's objective, Mvala emphasised the importance of giving hope to aspiring football players from disadvantaged backgrounds. "I want young people from small townships to keep dreaming and have hope that through hard work, their dreams can become reality," expressed Mvala.

The skilful defender shared that conducting the football clinic reminded him of his childhood. Mvala stated that Mamelodi Sundowns visited his hometown when he was younger and it was an unforgettable experience. "I know that the young players who attended the clinic will always cherish this moment because I have been in their shoes. The presence of a big brand such as Mamelodi Sundowns at the football clinic is a huge motivation for the youngsters," stated Mvala.

"You can become whatever you want, no matter what your background is." - Siya Kolisi

By conducting these football clinics, Masandawa's star athletes embodied the spirit of Ubuntu. We appreciate and thank the players for allowing the club to be part of their initiatives aimed at developing their hometown communities and uplifting the next generation of football stars and leaders.

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