Doctor Khumalo applauds Glencore Coal for youth football programme

By Sihle Mkhize

Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana legend Doctor Khumalo encouraged young players to make full use of a programme aimed at polishing their skills. 

The Community Football (Commfoot) Programme is sponsored by Glencore Coal and is done in partnership with Safa Nkangala Region and the eMalahleni Local Football Association (LFA). 

It is aimed at helping support young soccer players from communities around eMalahleni. 

“With over 180 soccer teams in the community, the programme aims to ensure that every local player and coach receive the training, mentorship and resources that are necessary for them to succeed in the sport,” reads a statement about the programme.  

The programme was launched on Saturday and Doctor Khumalo was among the former players who played in an exhibition match. 

Glencore Coal South Africa’s CEO, Murray Houston, said that while the day was filled with much play and fun activities, it would be remembered as a monumental one for the future of soccer in the community.

 “Today is really an exciting day for us as Glencore. It’s been such an amazing experience to have watched some of our local sports teams who were playing today and to witness the incredible talent that exists in eMalahleni. 

“The launch of this partnership is the start of great things for this community and will inject a turnkey programme to professionalise football at LFA level. 

“I really want to encourage every player and coach that will receive training and mentoring through this programme, to grab this opportunity with both hands. 

“We are supporting this programme because we want to support members of our community, we do this because we want them to progress in a sport that ignites their passion,” said Mr Houston.  

One of the key highlights of the programme is the football focussed life skills for both girls and boys from 14-19 years of age, which will teach the players the important skills. 

These skills will help to keep them disciplined and focused on their life goals as well as soccer dreams, reads the statement. 

“In addition, replicas of the official LFA jersey will be made available to community members allowing them to sell the jersey and thus increase economic activity in the community.” 

Doctor Khumalo said the programme should be able to produce players who will go on to shine at big stages.

“I definitely share the excitement of the many young kids and locals present today because what this day signifies will be remembered for many years to come. 

“Soccer is the heart of our nation, and it is so amazing to see a company like Glencore doing their part to help the dreams of young soccer players come to life. 

“I wish each of the participants the very best and hope to see them at some of our biggest stadiums in future,” said Doctor Khumalo.