Tshikhwani Stone Breakers were crowned champions of the Thovhele Vho NTL Mashamba Soccer Tournament, played at the Mashamba Grounds on Monday. Breakers beat their rivals, Makhitha Oscar Stars, 2-0 in the final.

During the prize-giving ceremony, former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana star Simphiwe Tshabalala appealed to the public to refrain from assaulting match officials. He urged the tournament's management committee to liaise with the local football association to support development teams, and he praised the organisers for their efforts in promoting development in the area.

A director of Singo Mining and Plant Hire, Mr Robert Nesengani, commended team managers and players for their dedication and commitment throughout the tournament. He said the company would continue sponsoring the event as it formed part of their mission. “As a company, it is our obligation to ensure that the society in which we are living is healthy, and sponsoring football is a step in the right direction,” he added.

Thovhele Vho Ndweleni Mashamba called on businesspeople to get involved in promoting local activities. He added: “It is brutal for businesspeople to enrich themselves at the expense of the people and do nothing in return towards the development of the area.”

The champions, Tshikhwani Stone Breakers, walked away with R70,000, a floating trophy, two new soccer kits and gold medals. The runners-up, Makhitha Oscar Stars, received R35,000, silver medals and two soccer kits. A cash prize of R18,500, along with a soccer kit and bronze medals, went to Maelula United Brothers, who finished third. Mashau Pull Together earned R10,000 and a soccer kit for ending in fourth place.