Meshack Khotha

Meshack Khotha

Talent will be under the spotlight in North West province when the Engen Under-17 tournament kicks off in Rustenburg from July 19 to 20.

This was said by Safa North West president Lesole Gadinabokao in a keynote address at the launch of the development tournament at Olympia Park Stadium yesterday.

Gadinabokao emphasised that the development of young talent "is an insurance for the continued play of football.

"We are grateful to the petroleum company for contributing substantially to the development of football at the lower ranks," said Gadinabokao, who is also an honorary president of the South African Football Association.

Thandi Manqana of Engen's corporate social investment said: "We are privileged to stage the tournament in North West in our bid to promote soccer at grassroot level.

"We are looking forward to a successful partnership with the community of North West towards the development of the game now and in future," said Manqana.

Royal Bafokeng sports development manager Ezzy Seabelo said he was very excited about the football tournament in this region of North West.

Sixteen teams from all the regional districts will take part in the tournament.

The winning side will walk away with the first prize of R10 000.

Four-team groups will play in a round-robin format with the two top teams in each group advancing to the quarterfinals.

There will also be prizes for goalkeeper of the tournament, defender, midfielder, striker and coach of the tournament.

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