Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana launched the province\u2019s lucrative men\u2019s football tournament in Bloemfontein on 20 March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Known as the Premier\u2019s Cup and featuring 16 clubs in the ABC Motsepe League, it offers a whopping R1,6 million in prize money. Each team is guaranteed R100 000, which is the participation fee; with the three finishing on the podium pocketing R200 000, R100 000, and R75 000, respectively. The club finishing in fourth place will receive R25 000. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dukwana said sport remained the untapped part of the economy due to lacking financial support, yet it is a powerful vehicle for social cohesion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSport is about doing what you are passionate about, and the passion must be a symbol and inspiration to others. Globally, big money earners are in sport. They trade with their talent to enable them to provide for themselves and their families. This tournament is a first step to change sport in general in this province into an industry,\u201d said Dukwana. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After two rounds of matches played on Friday, 22 March, and Sunday, the clubs still in the race to be crowned the inaugural champion are, Bloemfontein Celtic against Sibanye Golden Stars, and Spartans against Super Eagles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The final to decide the three podium finishers will be played on Saturday at 16:00 in Bloemfontein.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana launched the province\u2019s lucrative men\u2019s football tournament in Bloemfontein on 20 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