AS part of celebrating his 40th birthday, Mthatha community development activist, Phikolomzi Adonisi, reflected on his youth days by organising a sports tournament.
Adonisi grew up playing street soccer in Northcrest Village in Mthatha a few years ago, and according to him, sport played a crucial role in shaping his life.
“I am turning 40 years now, so I am trying to reflect back on my youth days, particularly on the issue of sport, because what kept me not engaging in drugs and alcohol is that I was busy playing, particularly here at North Crest.
“During our days we were playing street soccer the whole weekend,” he said.
Adonisi said he decided to encourage young people and teenagers who still have a future to celebrate his 40th birthday.
“So when I reflect back on what I can do to celebrate my 40 years, I said, “no let me encourage other young people, teenagers who still have a future to say let’s gather, have fun and enjoy sport, then after that we eat something good that is available.”
“I wanted to celebrate my 40th birthday and I thought of many things, like taking my family out, but I said no we always as a family gather at many events; then I decided to buy trophies, medals, and meat to enjoy this day with young sports people, to have fun and play different street sport codes.
“Back in the day, young people were playing every weekend and there was no time for wrongdoing. These days we see a lack of support and I wish and I think every ward was supposed to have its sporting codes, its sporting facilities, and indoor sports centres, so that there must be no excuses from young people.
“I think our government needs to support people doing sport development initiatives,” said Adonisi.
Sakhingomso FC and God Is Good Netball Club were both crowned champions of the Adonisi 40th birthday celebration tournament, walking away with trophies, gold medals and also individual awards.
Sakhingomso FC captain, Khanya Ngungubele, from Mthatha West, said they are very grateful to be invited to participate in the.
Sports codes played on the day include street soccer, touch rugby, netball, and boxing.
