On Saturday the 16th of May a group of social soccer players got together at the Randburg indoor soccer club to play in our first hosted soccer tournament with the aim of having fun and raising money for YAPS and several charities in the Gauteng area.  

Seven teams arrived and the fixtures were drawn up in a round robin format. We were out in full force ensuring that the tournament ran smoothly and the players and supporters were kept warm and their energy levels remained high with delicious Caldo Verde and pregos on sale throughout the day. The atmosphere was festive with Adrian Bain’s (a sub-executive member) music playing throughout the day causing all feet to tap and some people couldn’t resist but share a dance move or two with all of us. With this  great vibe,   and group of   enthusiastic footballers, the day was bound to be a success! 

The games were all tightly contested and very entertaining, and even though everyone wanted to win, they all played in a good spirit and were well handled by the referees on the day, namely Diogo Mendonca, Rogerio Cabanita and Ilidio Cabanita. Certain players shone and there was definitely an abundance of talent on show. The games got even closer as 6 of the 7 sides all had a chance of making the top 4 spots on the log and a priceless spot in the semi finals! 

The 4 teams to finally make the cut were Ama 1 vs Regent Allstars and Boca Juniors vs The Awesomes. The closeness of the competition really came through in the semi’s as both had to be settled by a penalty shootout! The Awesomes and Ama 1 ended up prevailing and though there were many tired legs around, the final really showed some true class and some unbelievable spirit.  

Ama 1 came out on top and walked with the floating trophy and their winnings of R2000 donated with their star striker Bobby walking away with the top goal scorer award with 10 goals. The Awesomes got the medals and donated R1000.  

The tournament had come to an end and after a day of giving and having fun, we packed up and reflected on a day where, even though Ama 1 won the trophies, every player and supporter felt like a winner.  Thanks to all who participated in this amazing event, whether you played or supported, the event would not have been the same without each and every one of you and for that, YAPS thanks you! You have definitely contributed to make someone’s life, less fortunate than us, just that little bit easier. We hope to see you at our next event as we know it will be bigger and better! God bless! 

From the YAPS committee