Strand Bazuka United were crowned champions of the 2024 Kings Smile Charity Cup Easter Soccer Tournament hosted at Lwandle Stadium over the long weekend.
Altogether 32 teams from all over the region battled it out for the trophy and R15 000 first-place cash prize, but in the end it was Strand Bazuka United who were victorious over Two for Joy by 1-0 in the final.
Local teams that participated in the tournament include Helderberg Rovers, Helderberg Falcons, Helderberg Cosmos and Sir Lowry’s Pass, among others, and they were joined by teams from Athlone, Bot River and Khayelitsha.
According to Bongani Michael, who is vice-president of the Helderberg Falcons and was part of the organising committee, the tournament was a huge success and drew more than 3 000 people on the final day.
“The tournament was very well attended,” said Michael, “and all our partners and sponsors were very pleased with the turnout, and the trophy handover ceremony was spectacular.” He added that the programme flowed smoothly and was testament to what the Helderberg football fraternity is able to pull off in terms of hosting large events. He thanked all spectators and sponsors for making it a success.
“It was an absolutely beautiful event, and we are confident that this tournament will become an annual highlight on the football calendar,” said Michael.
The hosts, Helderberg Falcons, played well to reach the semi-final where they lost to Two For Joy by 1-0. “We were very happy with the boys,” continued Michael. “They played really well. We have a young group of players, mostly teenagers, and to see them compete against the older, mature players and give them a competitive game was a really good sign. A semi-final finish is not bad at all.” Plans are already in motion to start with preparations for next year’s tournament.
For more information, call Michael on 076 804 3708.
