Coaches Jerry ‘Kappa’ Tshabalala and Agnes ‘Madala’ Nkosi were in attendance as the Mamelodi Sundowns youth development sides clinched the inaugural edition of the Volkswagen (VW) Vaya Cup soccer tournament which took place on the 10th and 11th of December.
The two-day tournament which took place at the University of Witwatersrand saw the club’s Under-16 girls and Under-13 boys teams secure top honours after showing their supremacy across the group stages and knockout phases.
Speaking after the victory, Coach Jerry heaped praises on Bidvest McCarthy VW Constantia who were coached by his senior players Andisiwe Mgcoyi, Rhoda Mulaudzi and Andile Dlamini.
“Credit must go to Constantia for emerging as deserved winners of the tournament because they were consistent performers. I also salute the fast-rising coaches who developed good chemistry with the youngsters during the games. Their positivity rubbed off on the players and the result is clear for everyone to see. Overall, I am very happy with the organization of this tournament and I hope that more opportunities are created for our youngsters and vibrant coaches,” Kappa stated.
Coach Agnes believes the tournament is a perfect initiative to promote grassroots football across South Africa.
“Based on what I saw throughout the tournament, I must say that the future of women’s football at Mamelodi Sundowns and South Africa is bright thanks to the quality of young players on display. Coach Jerry and I had the privilege of scouting several talented stars who we strongly believe will grab the headlines in a few years. Congratulations to the girls and the boys teams for continuing the winning tradition at Mamelodi Sundowns,” said Madala.
Meanwhile, Rhoda couldn’t hold back her excitement after Constantia clinched the Vaya Cup tournament.
“To win a trophy as a player means so much, but to do it as a coach is simply unbelievable. Special thanks to the parents for creating time for their young ones to develop their careers with Mamelodi Sundowns. I also commend the sponsors of this tournament for a job well done as well as the Club Chairman, the management, the technical team and the entire Yellow Nation family for the immense support to participate in this tournament. I also salute my fellow coaches (Andisiwe and Andile) for their professionalism as well as our teammates who came to cheer us up. Congratulations also to the Under-13 boys team who played under the name – Lindsay Saker Midrand,” an excited Rhoda stated.
Victory at the VW Vaya Cup further underlined the vibrant youth development systems at Mamelodi Sundowns which are designed to enhance the personal, physical, technical, tactical, psychological and social development of talented youngsters within its structures.
Congratulations once again to the girls’ and boys’ teams as well as their respective coaches!!
