Young talent shows up at Kay Motsepe Soccer Tournament in Kimberley

The spirit of youth football came alive at the Boys High School grounds in Kimberley as the Northern Cape hosted the Kay Motsepe Schools Provincial Knockouts.

Boys and girls from across the province gathered to showcase their talent, determination and passion for the game, continuing a proud tradition of giving learners a platform to rise through the ranks of South African football.

The Kay Motsepe Schools Tournament, established years ago with the aim of promoting school sports and providing opportunities for young players to be scouted, has grown into one of the most respected school football competitions in the country.

For the Northern Cape, it remains an important stage where communities unite and dreams begin to take shape.

This year’s provincial knockouts brought together schools from all five districts of the province. After an intense round of matches, three champions were crowned. In the Under-13 boys’ division, Porth Nolloth Primary emerged as winners after an impressive run.

Kevin Nkoane Primary School made history in the Under-13 girls’ category, securing their spot at the national finals. Remmogo High School sealed victory in the Under-19 division, proving their consistency and strength on the pitch.

All three categories walked away with a cheque of R100,000.

For Kevin Nkoane Primary, this victory carried special meaning. It marked the first time since 1965 that a girls’ team from the school qualified for the national tournament. Coach Mbulelo Jack Junior, executive member of the local football association and mentor to the team, expressed his pride in the achievement.

“It was a three-year project for me, developing the girl child and being patient with them,” said Jack. “In 2024, I told my management at the school we would not enter the competition because my target was 2025 as planned.

"We started the journey from the Sol Plaatje Municipality group stages, then the inter-municipality knockout in Warrenton, and on 6 September 2025 we made history at the Provincials. I am so proud of the girls and of the progress I am making with the girl child in the community and at the school.

"Football has become a life-changing opportunity for some of them.”

The path ahead now leads to Pretoria, where the national tournament will be hosted from October 6 to 11. For the winners, it is not only about trophies but also about growth, exposure, and the chance to inspire the next generation of footballers in the Northern Cape.