The three-year partnership
between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and the Council of Southern Africa
Football Associations (COSAFA) has seen more than 200 young girls from around
the City harness their football skills in preparation for being future football
stars.
The U/15 Girls
COSAFA Legacy Tournament consists of 12 local teams and will conclude tomorrow at Jabavu Stadium in Uitenhage.
NMBM Sport, Arts and Culture
Portfolio Head Cllr Lehlohonolo Mfana said the tournament was in line with the
City’s sport development plans as it aimed to develop football stars from
grass-root level.
“Last year we made a promise that
we would take COSAFA and the development to Uitenhage because for some time
they complained of being neglected and not being included in sport development
projects. We have now come back as promised and we will continue to make sure
that we develop sport across the City,” said Mfana.
COSAFA secretary general, Sue
Destombes said the aim of the tournament was to give back to NMBM communities
to revive football development and the economy in the region. She further said
the initiative was linked to the Women’s Championships Tournament currently
running in the City.
“We have employed 75 volunteers and
local suppliers to provide catering and transport for the whole duration of the
COSAFA tournament. We have already trained 30 women D–Licence coaches, 35 women
are doing an Admin Course as we speak at Coega Village. We have done the
referees course for 15 women referees for this region and other Provincial
regions,” said Destombes, adding that COSAFA wanted to leave a legacy in the City.
Source: Nelson Mandela Bay
Municipality Communications Office
