Freedom Day tournament unites Westlake youth through sport
A Freedom Day soccer tournament in Westlake drew strong community support as 10 teams competed in cold and wet conditions on Monday 27 April.
The event formed part of efforts to steer young people away from gangsterism and create positive opportunities through sport.
Organiser Brendon Kindo said the turnout exceeded expectations, with more teams asking to join after matches had already started.
“We had a lot of community members and outsiders on the field, watching the games through the cold, wet weather,” he said.
Youth engagement the main goal
Kindo said the initiative achieved its purpose.
“We achieved what I was planning to do, to attract youngsters, keep them busy and show them there is another positive way of life.”
He said the response from players and spectators confirmed the event’s impact.
“People kept asking when the next one will happen. That tells me we are on the right track to keeping youngsters off the streets.”
Westlake Stars claim title
Westlake Stars claimed the title after fighting back from a goal down to win the final 2-1.
“They were down 1-0 and then something changed, maybe they drank Red Bulls, but they came back strong,” Kindo said.
He said the positive atmosphere stood out throughout the day.
“The vibe was totally cool, very positive, and people were respectful of one another.”
Kindo added that one team initially reacted negatively after an early elimination but later rallied behind the remaining matches.
“In the beginning they were negative, but later they became like cheerleaders. That was a nice shift to see.”
Challenges behind the scenes
Despite the tournament’s success, Kindo said organising the event alone proved difficult.
“The biggest challenge was doing everything on my own. People who said they would help did not show up.”
He remained on site from early morning until 19:30 with only two volunteers assisting.
“There were no floodlights, so I had to use car lights to shine on the goalposts when it got dark.”
He said future tournaments would need stronger planning and more support.
“I need more human resources and better structure so we do not end so late again.”
Plans to expand
Kindo plans to build on the momentum.
“I will do it again. I am even looking at netball next and building something more consistent.”
He said interest from potential sponsors and partners was already growing.
“I received a message from someone willing to assist with prize money, and I am meeting another person who wants to get involved. That is very positive.”
City backs initiative
Ward 71 councillor Carolynne Franklin said the City of Cape Town supports the tournament.
She said youth development in the ward currently focuses on partnerships in Westlake, including programmes involving Westlake Primary School and the Ubuntu Soccer Academy.
Franklin said a fully funded learn-to-swim programme also benefits junior pupils through partnerships with the Cape Academy for Maths, Science and Technology and the AquaAzurra Foundation.
Sports field challenges remain
Franklin said the Westlake Sports Field forms part of the City’s R50 million Urban Liveable Waterways Project.
She said vandals damaged the original turf, irrigation system and change rooms before her term in office. Goalposts and equipment also face regular theft and vandalism.
She added that changes to national environmental legislation have affected the site’s use as a formal sports facility.
Despite this, the City continues to support local sport through funded events and equipment donations.
These include resurfacing the netball court and providing bibs, cones, balls, whistles, refreshments and prize money.
Franklin said officials are also exploring further upgrades, including a possible five-a-side soccer pitch in partnership with a private NPO.
