Sport has long been the saving grace of youth across the country who face many social ills including drug abuse, violence and gangsterism on a daily basis.
However, Nico Mazwayi, the general secretary of SAFA Verulam Local Football Association (LFA), believes communities are not encouraging the young people to take up sport which is leaving them vulnerable to a number of negative influences. He said: “There is no support for the youth and their talent is neglected by the community and authorities.”
Mazwayi said there are 60 teams registered under Verulam LFA, with different streams including the Under 11: Future Stars, Under 13: Jemaz FC, Under 15: Parkgate Utd and Under 19: Sotobe Young Stars. “These youngsters enjoy playing soccer and are very dedicated. Others should be encouraged to join these leagues because it will keep them away from exploring environments that will break their character. Substance abuse is a major problem. It has affected most of our youth and destroyed their potential,” he said.
Mazwayi said the training for league games ensures all the players are fit and healthy. “These young players are trained professionally from the very beginning by accredited coaches with D and C SAFA licenses. We have also produced professional players like Nkanyiso Zungu, who is currently playing for Orlando Pirates and Simphiwe Cele, who is playing for Royal M in the PSL,” he added.
Calling for more parents to encourage their children to get involved in league football, Mazwayi said: “Youth participation is vital as it leads them to many opportunities, from a young age, to play in the professional league and become a super star of Bafana Bafana. This league is recognised and registered under South African Football Association.”
For more information please contact Nico Mazwayi on 079 306 2927.
