Swifts Football Club celebrated its second year of reviving the sport in Kariega and in a renewed effort wishes to involve more primary school players in the sport.
Etienne Borman, one of the founder members of the club, started his football career at the age of eight in Kariega. Among the various clubs that he played for are Vodacom Highland Spurs, Fairview Rovers, and Rangers.
“I returned to Uitenhage (Kariega) three years ago and saw the need for a club in town. Specially to accommodate young players who would like to play the game. Very few schools offer football as a sport,” said Borman.
Swifts FC currently has 86 members and two U/11 teams, with an U/13, U/15, U/17, U/19 and senior team.
“We previously trained at the former Uitenhage Rugby Club fields, but the conditions with the derelict buildings and vagrants became too dangerous. Pirates Baseball Club has now made it possible for us to use their fields, which are in a much better condition.
“However, we are very concerned about the vibracrete boundary wall being torn down by people burning cables and recycling items. This is one of the very few sports fields still in a good condition and authorities should not allow for it to be captured as well for illegal activities and out of control dumping.”
The club boasts a good number of supporters and parents are just as keen about the club as their children. The support group recently held a very successful Valentine’s steak evening with the aim to raise funds for much needed equipment.
Inge Combrink, one of the parents, said they do their best with fundraising projects to support the club. “It is not sustainable for parents to continue paying out of their own pockets for equipment needed. But to see the difference that football does for my child is just amazing.”
Calika Muller, treasurer of the club, said, “Our immediate goal is to raise enough funds to get two sets of goal posts for the club. We are excited about the club and wish for it one day to be a prominent club in the region. It changed my son’s life for the better.”
Borman said, “We wish to thank Benita Grobler from Campworld and Safari Centre 4×4 for the donation of training T-shirts. Thank you to Calika Muller and Nomawabu Lobese of Yeyona Industries for sponsoring two sets of playing gear.
“I would also like to thank the parents for their enthusiastic support. It does make a huge difference. I am looking forward to a prosperous future for the club when it comes to developing young talent.
“My vision is a Swifts Football Academy. It is a long shot, but dreams do come true.”
For more info about Swifts Football Club call Etienne Borman at 061 080 4415.
