A local tile company, in conjunction with the Thulamela municipality, turned the sod for an ambitious R4 million sports project on Saturday.

The project, which will include improving a sports field, change rooms, caretaker room, volleyball court and netball ground, was launched by the chairperson of CTM, Mr Ganni Ravazzotti, and Thulamela Mayor Grace Mahosi.

During the function, soccer balls were presented to young boys from local communities as well as local elderly soccer teams.

The project is expected to be completed in four months.

Ravazzotti said his company was excited to be partnering with Thulamela in the development of the community. “We believe that education through sport is critical for the young generation of South Africa, and we strongly believe that the project will make a difference in the community of Thohoyandou,” he said

Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli, one of the senior traditional leaders, urged the youth to make full use of the resources. “Our youths need infrastructure such as this one. Our youth should also take advantage of it and, who knows, future stars could emerge from here and represent us nationally.”