Women’s tourney a great success
WOMEN’S soccer is on the right track after a successful tournament was held in the northern areas last week to promote the sport and attract more participants.
The Ladies Soccer Tournament, held at the Saints football fields in Gelvandale, was aimed at uncovering and showcasing Nelson Mandela Bay’s talent.
The tournament, the first of its kind in the northern areas, was the brainchild of Saints Football Club player Marvin Kops.
Kops thanked the club for their support in this venture, saying: “They are the backbone of the successful hosting of this tournament.”
The tournament format was five-a-side and the event featured seven Bay teams.
Four teams went through to the knockout rounds, with the best two teams on the day contesting the trophy.
The final was a tightly contested affair, with Unicorns taking the honours in a 3-1 victory over Mighty Stars.
Nozipho Bell was named player of the tournament, while Simoney Clarke was goalkeeper of the tournament and Auberanchia Blaauw the top goal-scorer.
Kops said: “My aim is to have this tournament annually on May 1.
“Maybe in the future sponsors can come and support us and make this tournament big,”
Bruce July, coach of Golden Stars FC, who play in the Sasol Women’s League, said the tournament was a great opportunity for the women.
Bell, of Unicorns, said she was proud of her team’s performances throughout the tournament.
“We must try to entice other women to become more involved in the sport,” she said.