By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – The Mavuso Sports Centre will be abuzz with excitement this Saturday as it hosts the Build It Under-13 National Championships, where eight teams will compete for glory.
The highlight of the tournament will be the lucrative E10,000 educational bursary awarded to the best player. Additional prizes include a 2,500L Africa tank worth E3,000 for the top goal scorer (Golden Boot) and a bicycle worth E1,900 for the best goalkeeper (Golden Glove).
This year marks 20 years of a successful partnership between the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) and Build It, a collaboration celebrated for fostering grassroots football development.
EFA Marketing and Communications Officer Muzi Radebe emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This is not just about crowning national champions; it’s a crucial platform for scouting talent for our junior national football squad. Entry is free, and the action kicks off at 7:30 AM. We invite everyone to join us in supporting the development of Eswatini’s youth through football.”
Les Pillay from Build It expressed pride in the event, saying, “We are privileged to host the Build It U13 National Finals in partnership with the EFA. As Southern Africa’s largest hardware retail chain, our success relies on our customers’ support. Investing in the youth and nurturing passion in Eswatini is our way of giving back. We thank the EFA leadership, our retailers, and suppliers for contributing to the growth of football in Eswatini.”
EFA President Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane highlighted Build It’s vital role in developing local football and urged the public to support the brand. “On behalf of the football family, I invite parents, relatives, and the general public to attend the Build It U13 National Championship at the Mavuso Sports Centre. Let’s motivate these young players as they showcase their talents on a national stage,” he said.
The eight teams representing towns with Build It stores include Mbabane, Pigg’s Peak, Nhlangano, Siteki, Buhleni, Manzini, Siphofaneni, and Matsapha.
With a day packed full of thrilling matches and incredible prizes, this championship is set to inspire the next generation of football stars in Eswatini.
