Ramalu Memorial Tournament

THE memory of late soccer administrator George Ramalu is being kept alive by a trust formed in his name and the annual soccer tournament held to commemorate his contribution to amateur football.

The affable Ramalu passed away 15 years ago and the annual George Ramalu Memorial Tournament being held this year on Saturday at the Verulam recreational grounds will address development at school level.

Chairman of the tournament committee Boston Moonsamy said the tournament was played among Safa-affiliated teams but the focus this year was to develop soccer where it should start – at school level.

“The tournament will involve school teams (winners and runners-up) that have already been chosen from Inanda, Phoenix, Verulam and Tongaat in the under 13, 15 and 17 divisions. It will be played on a knockout basis,” said Moonsamy.

He said the late Ramalu was the manager of Provincial Affairs and Women’s Football of Safa before his death in April 2001.

His achievements at all levels of football across the province – club, district and regional – are legendary.

Ramalu was also secretary and president of the Southern KwaZulu-Natal Soccer Board, convener of the Clover and Castle Cup committees, leader in soccer unity talks and active in the South African Council on Sports.

“All participants will be given meals and participation medals fully embossed with the George Ramalu logo,” said Moonsamy.

“Winners and runners-up will be presented with trophies and their respective schools will receive vouchers to purchase sporting equipment to the tune of R20 000.

“Individual prizes for the best player in each division will also be awarded, among other grand prizes.”

For further information you can contact Moonsamy on 083 783 3392.