The roar of the crowd and the whistle of the referee are set to return to the Abe Sher Sports Complex as Bothasig AFC prepares to host its sixth annual Back-2-Basics youth football tournament from Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May.
What began as a community-led initiative in 1972 — famously clearing its own fields by hand — has evolved into one of the Western Cape’s premier showcases for foundational talent, organisers say, adding that this year’s festival is expected to be massive in scope, drawing over 1 200 young athletes to the heart of Bothasig.
A festival of football
The tournament is designed to celebrate the “beautiful game” in its purest form, focusing on skill development and sportsmanship. The scale of the event is significant, hosting approximately 110 teams in total.
The competition features comprehensive coverage for the u-7; u-8, u-9, u-10, and u-11 divisions, while a dedicated u-12 Girls category highlights the club’s ongoing commitment to increasing female participation in the sport.
With 20 teams per age group, the tournament ensures a high-density, fast-paced atmosphere where matches are designed to maximize play, organisers say.
Beyond the action on the pitch, Bothasig AFC has prioritised a professional and secure environment. Families can expect a fully vetted site with dedicated on-site medical support and ambulance services. “This tournament is the heartbeat of our fundraising efforts,” the club noted, emphasising that the revenue generated is vital for maintaining the Abe Sher facilities and keeping registration fees accessible for local families.
Entertainment
For the residents of Bothasig and surrounding areas, the weekend offers more than just football. The club’s hospitality will be in full swing, featuring good food and offering everything from boerewors rolls to burgers, snacks and drinks.
The event takes place this weekend from Friday to Sunday at the Abe Sher Sports Complex, De Boerin Street in Bothasig. Entry at the gate costs R10 per person (ages 12-years and older) and parking costs R20 per car.
As the club celebrates over 50 years of “Nurturing Excellence,” the “Back-2-Basics” tournament stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of grassroots community sport in the Western Cape, organisers say.
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