Kgahleng Murulane Secondary Crowned Champions of Tournament Against Substance Abuse
Municipality Cllr Eric Moswane handing over the trophy to Stopia the captain of Kgahleng Murulane Secondary School after being crowned the champions of the tournament. Picture Credit: Thulane Madalane.
By Thulane Madalane
Ga Masemola – In a vibrant showcase of athleticism and teamwork, Kgahleng Murulane Secondary has emerged victorious in a recent tournament dedicated to combating substance abuse. Organized in partnership with the Makhuthathamaga Local Municipality, the Makhuthathamaga Sports Confederation, SAPS, Department of Social Development, MCO and the Mokgele Foundation, this event emphasized community improvement and youth engagement.
The tournament featured electrifying matches that highlighted the skills and determination of young players dedicated to their sport and the fight against drug abuse. A pivotal moment in the final occurred when Kgahleng Murulane’s Thando skillfully received a pass from teammate Stopia, chipping the ball over the opposing goalkeeper to score the opening goal.
The excitement continued as Kgahleng Murulane nearly doubled their lead just two minutes later. However, a remarkable save from the Mahwetshe Secondary School goalkeeper denied Stopia’s attempt, fueling the competitive spirit of both teams.
Representing Masemola, Mahwetshe Secondary School made key tactical substitutions, introducing Cedric Kgaditsi, Ernest Mokwena, Tumelo Kgaditsi, and Mokalapa Lefa to shift momentum. Their perseverance paid off when Tshanko equalized with a well-executed shot from a set piece in the 27th minute, reigniting hopes for Mahwetshe.
Nevertheless, Kgahleng Murulane quickly regained their lead, thanks to a goal from Haland just two minutes later, energizing their supporters. The intensity on the field heightened as both teams continued to battle, with Murulane making a critical substitution in the 33rd minute, bringing in Kop for Sibiya to bolster their midfield.
More than just a sports competition, the tournament served as a significant initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse, advocating for healthier, drug-free lifestyles among the youth.
As the match approached its conclusion, Mahwetshe Secondary earned a hard-fought equalizer from a penalty after Kgahleng’s Tshepo committed a handball in the 16-yard area. Lefa expertly converted the penalty, tying the score and ensuring an exhilarating finish to regulation play.
The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Kgahleng Murulane triumphed 4-2, securing their title as champions of this inaugural tournament, which included teams from eight different schools in the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality. The tournament also featured a netball competition, reinforcing its commitment to promoting wholesome activities.
Mr. Mokgele-Kolo Jnr Tjatji of the Mokgele Foundation spoke passionately about the role of sports in uniting communities. “Sports bring people together irrespective of race and gender. We found that soccer and netball can be effective platforms to convey our anti-drug awareness message,” he stated. “Our goal is to rekindle the love for these sports in our villages, especially since many youth have fallen into nightlife, engaging in risky behaviors.”
The Mokgele Foundation actively encourages youth to combat the pandemic of drug abuse, specifically focusing on issues like nyaope. They host initiatives such as the annual Mokgele Foundation drug abuse awareness event on Mandela Day every July, inviting affected individuals to engage with youth, especially in schools. Currently, they are in the process of assisting ten addicts in entering rehabilitation centers, intending to empower them through job training and relevant skills.
Cllr Eric Moswane, the Acting Mayor and MMC of Economic Development and Planning, emphasized the municipality’s proactive response to the rising substance abuse rates, including crystal meth. “This tournament was essential to remind our young people that there is much more to life than drugs,” he asserted.
The success of this tournament not only crowned a new champion but also reinforced the vital message that community engagement through sports can serve as a powerful tool in the fight against crime and substance abuse.
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