By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 25 Under-17 players who were selected during the Benito Sport Development tournament held at Mighty Boys FC grounds in Manthe village near Taung will undergo a week-long intensive training come January 2022.
The former football player, Benny “Benito” Setumisho said all went well despite some challenges. Setumisho said he was impressed with what was displayed by young players’ through-out the tournament.
“The tournament went well under difficult conditions. We had to postpone some games on Sunday due to rainy conditions. However, all 16 teams played their games on Saturday, but those who qualified for quarter finals were forced to play close to three games on Monday.
“We managed to select players on Saturday and we soldiered on until Monday. The tournament reached its objective and I am happy. Under-17 players participated and there was a lot of potential that needs to be nurtured,” he said.
Setumisho further said these players demonstrated their football-playing skills and he was happy with the recruitment processes. He added that all players selected will assemble during the second week of January 2022 for a week-long camp.
“We will bring them together and ensure that they understand what is needed from them. These Under-17 players played like adults. We only have to show them a new way to get better because most of them are largely from rural society.
“However, I do not have any doubt that they could compete with the likes of Kaizer Chiefs FC, Orlando Pirates FC, Mamelodi Sundowns FC including Jomo Cosmos FC. I also believe that some of these players can go abroad and play in one of the biggest leagues in the world,” said Setumisho.
He added that life in soccer academies is understandably filled with challenges and stringent procedures, so he called on businesspersons to come on board and assist with funding. Setumisho said he will be in need of accommodation to house these players during a week-long camp.
“’You’re talking about a lot of young players chasing a few options. We had over 200 players who participated in this tournament, but only 25 made it. So, we will need as much support as we can because this is a long term option.
“Taung has an abundance of talent but that can only be nurtured if we work together. We also brought in players such as Mothusi Gopane to give a word of advice to them. One of the problems with the academy is its ethos,” said.
He also applauded those sponsors who came on board like Centre of Medical Imaging SA for support and the North West Social Development. Setumisho who said he was disappointed by the Greater Taung Local Municipality (GTLM) for its failure to come on board, he lauded the Roots shop and Lebo Tebo Construction company director, Lebo Mabe who donated five soccer balls.
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