On Saturday 29 March, local football club, the Sophia Stars Football Club, which is based in Extension Seven, hosted its annual prize giving. The club, which started in 2011 as a way to get the youth off the streets and playing soccer, has grown into a place where youngsters can grow and learn Football.
Lindisiwe Swartbooi, a member of Sophia Stars, stated that in order to get the children involved in the club, they have to give them the tools that they need and want, over and above simply providing them with soccer skills. This is why, n 2014 they set up an opportunity for the youth to study, by getting involved with Rhodes University students. On a weekly basis, students from Rhodes come and assist the Sophia kids with their studies. They also take part in the events and activities that happen on national and public holidays, such as Mandela Day.
Pick n’ Pay Manager, Nico Olivier, was also present to give his support support and he spoke words of encouragement to the youth and parents of the club. He promised to continue to support the Sophia Stars for future seasons.
The prize giving saw the club give awards to the boys starting from under 11, under 13 and under 15. Chairman of the club Lindisipho Swartbooi thanked the following people for their contribution to the Club: Pick n’ Pay, ABM, Albany Jewellery and Grahamstown Pharmacy. In between the ceremony there was Makhanda Marimba Band to entertain the parents and the youth.
