Muraida Youth Development went home with a new soccer kit and a floating trophy during the prize-giving ceremony of the Luvhengo Mungomeni Youth Development U/17 League held at the Ramavhoya show grounds on Saturdya.

Luvhengo Mungomeni, a Moroka Swallows defender, said he decided to form this structure to make sure that the youth are kept busy with something they can enjoy. This can also help them to identify talent. Mungomeni said he realised that many of the young people in the area were involved in crime, as well as alcohol and drug abuse, because of a lack of entertainment. “My purpose is to develop and to unearth various talents in young people at grassroots level,” he said. He added that it was good to have sports-loving business people like the Munakisi Company and Dr Mbavhalelo Manenzhe, who sponsored the league and knock-out.

A teacher, Mr Shonisani Mukhwantheli, was the guest speaker. He pointed out that sport was the most effective way to draw the youth away from gangsterism, drugs and alcohol abuse. He appealed to the private sector to pump more funds into the development of sports. Dr Mbavhalelo Manenzhe revealed that the sponsorship will increase every season, depending on the financial position of the business.

Luvhalani Sunshine Pirates won the Mukunis Cup and went home with a floating trophy and new soccer kit. Mishack Netshianane of Muraida Youth Development FC won four awards for being player of the season, top goal scorer, players’ player of the season and player of the Munakisi Cup.