A Grade 9 learner from South Peninsula High School helped her team become national champions when she scored the winning goal at the Super Soccer Schools Tournament in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) from Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 August.

Chloe Benson, a left-winger who now plays for Ubuntu Football Academy, started her soccer career at age 4 at Stephanian’s Ottery Football Club, where she played in a co-ed team, according to her mom, Louise Benson.

She later transitioned to a girls’ u-14 team at age 12, where her side took second place in the LFA knockout competition.

Soccer roots

Speaking about the moment her team was crowned champion Chloe said it felt as if they were on top of the world and unstoppable.

She credited the team’s thorough preparation for giving them the edge over the other schools.

“We trained often, even during the school holidays. We had analytical sessions as well as fun team-building sessions. We watched our opponents beforehand to see what we were up against.”

Chloe also highlighted the closeness of the team as a key factor in their success.

“We are a very close team in terms of friendship, and we sorted out any problems we had with each other, so there were no issues on the field.”

Her father played a significant role in her soccer journey.

Support system

“My dad was my biggest influence. He would always encourage me as a young player and help me in the areas where I needed support.”

South Peninsula High also provided vital backing for the team’s campaign.

The school ensured the players travelled safely and arrived on time, assisted with fundraising, and provided healthy meals and entertainment over the tournament weekend.

The teachers and coaches provided strong support throughout the tournamentt.

The tournament was not without its challenges.

Future goals

Chloe said the toughest moment came on the first day when the team did not get the results they wanted.

She pushed through by talking to her teammates and improving on areas where she had struggled in the first two games.

Looking ahead, Chloe hopes the team will stay strong and retain their title in 2027.

She also hopes to attract more talent to the school’s soccer programme to strengthen the team for years to come.

For her personal career, Chloe dreams of one day becoming captain and ultimately reaching the international level.

“I hope that my efforts and abilities will always be appreciated and that I will be seen as a crucial player. This could give me the opportunity to be recognised for my talents and hopefully make it to the international level.”

ALSO READ: Fish Hoek High School football team finishes as runners-up in Champions FA Cup