Since its formation in 2019 Helderberg Lions Football Club has made huge strides in the community and has laid a foundation of unity, respect and ambition.
It has grown to include full junior squads consisting of under-14, under-16 and under-18 teams, two senior teams, and has been accepted into the second division of the Tygerberg Local Football Association for the 2022-’23 season. But with limited resources and players from underprivileged communities, the club is now on a mission to attract sponsors to help with transport costs for away games, which right now threatens its ability to compete successfully.
Based at Helderzicht Sports Grounds, the 92 players who have joined the club come from Garden Village, Lwandle, Lourensia Park, Sir Lowry’s Pass and Strand.
Despite growing up in communities where interest in soccer fell far behind that of rugby and cricket, the athletes are as passionate about the game as they ever can be.
“The club has grown tremendously over the last number of years, despite the impact of Covid,” senior team manager Nolan Jacobs said. “When we made a call for the junior teams the interest in the community was significant. We’ve played 10 friendlies so far in preparation for the league, which starts on 23 April.”
“And we’re still growing,” added juniors manager Darren Johnson. “We are now looking at establishing mini teams to cater for even younger kids. People in the community want to be active, they want to be competitive, and they have skills.”
According to Jacobs the most important aspect of the club is providing opportunities for future generations.
“We started this club in a dusty corner on this field, and today we are a fully fledged squad that is organised. We have access to the clubhouse and full field, and we’re on our way to the Tygerberg LFA where we can showcase our talent. The opportunities are endless for our youth and I won’t rest until we see them successful.”
Johnson elaborated that the support from the community is evident, especially when a prize-giving was held at the end of last year.
He explained: “We want to give our kids exposure to different sports, and although soccer is a tough one to crack in the Helderberg, there’s still amazing opportunities. You are welcome here no matter your age and even if you’re not a player. You don’t even have to be fit. We’ll make you feel a part of this team.”
Helderberg Lions FC currently only have one kit per team, which poses challenges when playing consecutive games, and are also training with limited resources such as old soccer poles and equipment.
“The Pacu brothers are our main sponsors and have since our inception kept this club alive and running, and we are immensely grateful for their assistance in keeping our dream going,” said Jacobs, “Right now our most pressing need is that of transport, and we appeal to the greater community and business to please support us.”
V For more club info, contact Alicia Jacobs on 076 556 1265 or helderberglionsfootballclub@gmail.com.
