Meshack Khotha

Meshack Khotha

Sixteen players in Ekurhuleni were selected at the end of the three-day Manchester United Soccer Schools (Muss) coaching clinics at Boksburg Stadium on Friday.

The campaign was organised by Ekurhuleni 2010 and special projects within the metropolitan council and is part of the Vodacom Challenge CSI and Muss programmes.

Simphiwe Morajane, 2010 project implementation specialist, said they would develop a mentorship programme for the selected players for a year.

He also pointed out that the players would be recalled on a monthly basis to sharpen up their skills.

Said Morajane: "The development of talent is actually in line with the greening of informal sport."

The first two coaching clinics were held in Tembisa and KwaThema and were conducted by Muss head of coaching Gavin Rhodes with teammates David Thorpe and Ose Aibangee.

Rhodes said the objective of the campaign was to give the youngsters the insight of Muss' philosophy.

He added that the campaign was fantastic throughout and he was impressed by the youngsters who showed commitment and enthusiasm throughout rigorous training.

A total of 256 youngsters who took part in the three-day coaching clinics were presented with participation certificates.

Speaking on behalf of newly-elected executive mayor Ntombi Mekgwe, Vulindlela Mapekula said: "We commend Manchester United for identifying South Africa as their destination to identify potential future stars."

The selected players are Gomolemo Jiyane, Luthando Molefe, George Masina, Thambelani Masilela, Julian Mhlongo, Thabiso Mbata, Kabelo Maphosa, Morena Tinte, Henry Mokadi, Richard da Silva, Bongile Thusi, Alocha Thobekela, Maletta Josephine, Hlesiwe Thasede, Tashrio Lottery and Dumisani Mposuna.