Kay Motsepe Schools Championship Showcases Top KZN Football Talent
The renowned Kay Motsepe School Championship kicked off in fine style in KwaZulu-Natal this past weekend with some exciting football.
The Motsepe Foundation, in partnership with sponsor Sanlam, continues to elevate school football in South Africa.
In collaboration with the Department of Basic Education, the Foundation hosted the provincial edition of the championship in the northern part of KZN.
Mzikayifani School’s Success
Scelo Hlongwane, a teacher and the under-13 coach at Mzikayifani School, spoke at Empangeni High School, where the tournament was held.
“We had a successful run in the under-13 category,” he said. “We started in a group with Amajuba and Harry Gwala. We played well, drawing with Amajuba and winning 8-1 against Harry Gwala.”
“We qualified for the semifinals, where we beat Ilembe 2-0 on penalties and advanced to the final. In the final, we won 1-0 and took home the championship.”
Hlongwane added, “Our players are extremely happy because we won a prize of R100,000. That money will help us get the resources the school needs, especially to improve our grounds, which are not in good condition.”
He concluded by thanking the organizers. “We want to thank the sponsors, especially the Motsepe Foundation for partnering with SAFA in this tournament. Once we receive the date for nationals, we will keep training the boys because we will be facing the best from the other nine provinces.”
Mningi High School’s Triumph
Siyanda Ngidi, the coach of Mningi High School from the King Cetshwayo District, was left speechless after their victory.
“We won the under-19 Kay Motsepe 2025 championship and are now the provincial champions,” said Ngidi.
“We want to thank the sponsors—the Motsepe Foundation and Sanlam—for giving our kids this opportunity to showcase their God-given talent,” he added.
When asked what led to their success, Ngidi explained, “What made us successful is that we were given enough time to prepare the team leading up to the games.”
He also emphasized the importance of education. “At Mningi, we believe we have talent, but school has to be the number one priority for our kids because education can change lives and put food on the table.”
