Soccer tourney in honour of Olympics medalist

A soccer tourney named after Olympics silver medalist Luvo Manyonga will be launched at Mhlanga village in Dordrecht on April 14.
The 26-year-old Manyonga won a silver medal for long jump at the Rio Olympics in 2016.
Ward 14 councilor Mncedisi Qomoyi said the idea for the tourney was born in December when Manyonga, who hails from the area, returned to celebrate his victory with residents of the village.
The president of South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) Gideon Sam was also present.
Manyonga, who is currently based at the University of Pretoria High Performance Center, came from a poor background. He overcame the use of crystal math while he was living in Cape Town.
“I proposed the idea of hosting an Easter tournament with the aim of preserving Manyonga’s legacy. I also found his challenging journey of overcoming drug addiction in order to make something of himself inspirational. It will empower local youth to unleash their potential in sport,”said Qomoyi.
Sam supported the idea and made a pledge to contribute R10 000 with Manyonga pledging R5 000 in order to start the initiative.
“Sam encouraged President of Athletics Transkei Lungisile Molwana and the Eastern Cape Sport Council to make a pledge. Emalahleni Municipality will come on board to assist us. We hoping for the department of sport recreation arts and culture who were invited but never came to become a part of this.”
He said the aim was to develop sport in the ward through what would hopefully become an annual event.
Manyonga and Sam were expected to attend the launch.
“A 5km fun run of over 200 people are expected, starting from 6am from Roma village to Sosebenza High school. Athletics will begin at 9am with items including long and high jump, running and shotput. Soccer will start a 2pm. The final games will be played on Sunday.”
Qomoyi said the tournament results would lead to a selection of athletes, a soccer and a netball team set to participate in forthcoming competitions.

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