BY NTOKOZO MAGONGO
MBABANE – The countdown is over!
The much-anticipated Build It Under-13 National Championships are ready to take stage on January 25, 2025, at the Mavuso Sports Centre.
Eight talented teams, representing the eight Build It stores across Eswatini, are set to compete for the prestigious title. The participating teams hail from Mbabane, Piggs Peak, Buhleni, Manzini, Matsapha, Siphofaneni, Siteki, and Nhlangano.
The official draw, held on Wednesday at the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Sigwaca House, brought together representatives from Build It and the EFA to finalize preparations for the event.
Loekie Van Niekerk, Build It’s Regional Retail Operations Manager, highlighted the importance of the tournament for football development in Eswatini.
“The stage is set for Eswatini’s finest young talents to compete for the ultimate honour of being crowned the National Build It Under-13 Champions,” said Van Niekerk. “January 25th will undoubtedly be a day of celebration, passion, and inspiration as we, together with the EFA, continue to unearth the future stars of Eswatini football—a tradition we have proudly upheld for nearly two decades.”
EFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederick Mngomezulu extended an invitation to parents and football enthusiasts to attend the event in large numbers. “These are the future stars of our country, and we are looking forward to a successful event,” he stated.
EFA Technical Director Bhekisisa ‘Boy Bizzah’ Mkhonta shared insights into the day’s activities, emphasizing the tournament’s role in player development. “A total of 160 players will be in action, and 23 will be selected to join the national games development sides,” he explained. “The players will progress through Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, and Under-20 squads.”
Mkhonta also highlighted the tournament’s success in nurturing talent over the years. Notable alumni include National Team (Sihlangu) Captain Kwakhe Thwala, as well as Nsingizini Hotspurs’ Thubelihle Mavuso. Promising players from previous editions, such as Calvin Maseko (Under-17), Andiswa Malaza (Under-20), and Muhle Maseko (Under-15), are already making strides in their respective age groups.
With 20 years of history, the Build It Development Programme has become a cornerstone for identifying and nurturing football talent in Eswatini. This year’s championships promise to be no different, offering young players an opportunity to showcase their skills and take their first steps toward professional football careers.
Parents, fans, and aspiring players, mark your calendars and head to Mavuso Sports Centre on January 25—a day dedicated to celebrating the future of Eswatini football.
