Young Pirates triumph at Freddy Makoko Provincial Masters Tournament

THE 2026 Freddy Makoko Provincial Masters Tournament, held in Galeshewe, Kimberley, showcased a celebration of football talent and legacy as retired players from across the Northern Cape reunited on the pitch. Founded and hosted by local entrepreneur Freddy Makoko, the tournament honours the province’s “Living Legends,” providing a platform for former professionals and semi-professionals to display their enduring skill and passion for the game.

This year, six elite masters’ teams competed in spirited matches defined by technical ability and sportsmanship. In a thrilling final, Young Pirates Masters emerged as champions, claiming the R7,500 top prize. Colville Masters finished as finalists with R3,000, while Lerato Park Masters were rewarded R4,500 as semi-finalists from the R15,000 total prize pool.

The tournament extends beyond the pitch. By fostering intergenerational interaction, the event connects football veterans with the youth of Galeshewe, passing on lessons of discipline, leadership, and athletic perseverance. Local businesses and community entrepreneurs also benefit, as the event stimulates the regional economy and boosts sports tourism within the district.

Looking ahead to 2027, organisers plan a major expansion, aiming to increase team participation from six to sixteen, enhancing the tournament’s provincial reach. Plans are underway to secure additional sponsorships, offering a larger prize pool to reflect the growing prestige of this celebration of football heritage.

“Our mission is to ensure that when a player hangs up their professional boots, their contribution to the game is not forgotten,” Makoko said. “The Freddy Makoko Tournament is where history stays in motion.”

The event confirms the Northern Cape’s appetite for structured masters’ football and underlines the tournament’s role as a vital platform for legacy, mentorship, and community engagement.