Search on for the stars of the future

Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker and now ambassador for the Sasfa Copa Coca-Cola schools’ tournament, Hareaipha Marumo (above), urged parents to take a more active role in their children’s sporting activities.

Marumo said parents should play a mentorship role so they will not stray if they are able to make a living out of the game.

“The presence of the mother or father goes back to mentorship. Just being told by your parents that you did well or that you would do better next time is unequalled,” said Marumo.

“Having parents there for you is extremely important. I know it is difficult for some, but whenever a parent is able to, they must go and support their child.”

The 39-year-old said he was lucky his father played for a team and he was there for him and encouraged him which made it easier as he fought to break into the professional ranks, which has proved a nightmare for many like him who came from rural areas.

This year’s competition will be held in Bloemfontein. It starts next week, with nine schools representing all the provinces.

Sasfa president Mandla Mazibuko said the competition has given a platform to many players, some of whom have gone on to turn professional.

The likes of Phakamani Mahlambi, Andile Jali and Kobamelo Kodisang graduated through this competition.

“We have created an enabling environment for talent identification specialists who have found this platform to be a catalyst for the acceleration of development of football in South Africa,” said Mazibuko.

The tournament has been running since 1989 and this year the winning school will walk away with R80 000 in cash while second place receives R50 000 and the third-placed school R45 000.