IT was smiles and joy on the faces of Mabayibone Strikers FC’s management and players, after the owners of the Walmer Township business, Xakaxa Funerals, handed over playing kit and match balls to the club’s juniors on Saturday.
Xakaxa Funerals director, Phumeza Xakaxa, said their aim was to uplift the standard of community sport because they wanted to see the youth of Walmer Township playing sport.
“By sponsoring the kit and balls to Mabayibone Strikers’ U/13 team, we would like to see a difference in Walmer Township. All we want to see is that the youth play sport.
“We appeal to these boys to refrain from doing crime and abusing drugs,” he added.
“Sport can be used as a tool to change the lives of the youth. We are making a difference to a community club that has no resources but is so passionate about sport.”
Ward 4 Councillor, Ayanda Tyokwana, who always supports community sport initiatives, also warned the young players not to turn to crime.
“Today, there are lots of opportunities for players. Crime and drugs jeopardise the future of the youth.
“Discipline, determination and dedication make the players successful. Be serious about sport at all times but education is the key to success,” said Tyokwana.
Strikers’ chairperson, Mkhanyiseli Ngxingo, thanked the sponsors for coming to their rescue.
“On behalf of the club, I would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the Xakaxa Funerals for making this sponsorship possible to the club.
“We have never been supported by any Walmer Township business since the club’s inception. The sponsorship will make a huge difference. I would like to appeal to other business people to help the needy people,” concluded Ngxingo.
