Belated glory as Easter Tournament champions are finally crowned
2025 Masters Easter Soccer Tournament
There were smiles all around and a long-awaited sense of celebration at the Greenpoint soccer ground on Sunday afternoon as the official handing over of the 2025 Easter Soccer Tournament medals and trophies finally took place. Seen from left are Archie Jack (SPMFL Secretary), Richard Thomas (Deputy chairperson SPMFL), Zon Flatela (Competitions head SPMFL), Guybon Qwabe (Manager Metropolitan), Khulani Mangayi (Aztec Representative), Daniel Kruger (Sales consultant Metropolitan), and Seabata Makhele (Chairperson SPMFL).
Image: Danie van der Lith
SMILES and long-awaited celebrations filled the Greenpoint soccer ground on Sunday afternoon as medals and trophies for the 2025 Easter Soccer Tournament were finally handed over.
Despite the tournament having concluded weeks ago, a procurement delay meant that the medals and trophies, sponsored by Metropolitan, were not available at the conclusion of the tournament. That logistical hiccup was finally resolved, and the champions were able to enjoy their moment of recognition in front of teammates, supporters, and community members.
Saints Masters, winners of the tournament's “losers section”, were the first to receive their well-deserved silverware. Following that, the 2025 Easter Tournament champions, Aztec Masters, were officially crowned and handed both their championship trophy and medals.
But the day’s rewards didn’t stop at trophies and medals. As a further gesture of support and encouragement, each winning team was also presented with a brand-new set of playing jerseys, courtesy of Metropolitan.
In a surprise announcement, Metropolitan also revealed that they are currently in discussions with the Sol Plaatje Masters Football League to become the official sponsor of the 2026 Easter Soccer Tournament.
This potential partnership is being hailed as a major boost for the tournament, which has grown in stature over the years. “Having a well-known brand like Metropolitan on board for 2026 would elevate the quality and reach of this tournament significantly,” said Chairperson of the Sol Plaatje Masters Football League, Seabata Mkhele. “It’s a vote of confidence in our league and, more importantly, in our players.”
The Easter Soccer Tournament has become a fixture in the local football calendar, offering retired and veteran players an opportunity to continue competing at a high level while promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering community camaraderie.
For Saints Masters and Aztec Masters, Sunday was a day of belated glory, but it was also a reminder of how football continues to unite and uplift communities. And with the promise of stronger backing and better resources on the horizon, the future of the Sol Plaatje Masters Football League Easter Tournament looks brighter than ever.