Mayoral Tournament launched to unearth talent in the FTLM
LONGTIL – Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM)’s mayor Eddie Maila launched the second annual Mayoral Tournament on February 17 at the Mapodile Sports Complex in Longtill, Steelpoort.
The tournament was launched with style and festivities much to the delight of the massive crowd in attendance.
The sporting event featured sporting codes including football, netball and pool table where local teams were battling for the first prize.
The Annual FTLM Mayoral Cup Tournament is a brainchild of FTLM Mayor, Cllr Eddie Malila, which came into inception last year with an aim to promote sports participation in the local municipality.
This year, the sporting event was graced by MEC for Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Limpopo Kekana who joined hundreds of sports fanatics and spectators from different parts of FTLM.
Delivering a keynote address, Kekana applauded the local municipality for creating a platform for young people to showcase their talent in the field of play.
“This FTLM Mayoral Tournament is not just a sports event, it is a testament to the dedication and vision of our local leaders in promoting the well-being of our community,” she said.
The MEC added that such tournaments celebrate the spirit of competition and unity through the sports, and fostering talent and development in the crucial sector of sport and recreation.
“The efforts of hosting tournaments resonate with the core principles of sport development, which is a vital component of the ANC government’s agenda. It aligns with key policies aimed at harnessing the potential of the youth, promoting physical health, and fostering a sense of community,” said Kekana.
She indicated that the FTLM Mayoral Tournament is a concrete step towards realising these objectives and ensuring that the community thrives in the realm of sports.
“This tournament echoes the objectives set forth in various national policies related to sports development. These policies, such as the National Sport and Recreation Plan, emphasize the importance of creating opportunities for participation, identifying and nurturing talent, and building infrastructure to support sports at the grassroots level,” she said.
Kekana advised young people to seize the tournament as an opportunity to showcase their skills, and let their potential shine.
“The tournament you witness today is not just about the thrill of competition, it is a platform for unearthing talent. I encourage all the talented young athletes to use this opportunity. Your dedication to sports not only contributes to your personal growth but also plays a crucial role in the overall development of our community,” she said.
In conclusion, the MEC called on the public to support events like the FTLM Annual Mayoral Tournament and other initiatives that contribute to the growth and development of the community.
“Through sports, arts, and culture, we can build a stronger, more united society. Mayor Eddie Maila, once again, thank you for your leadership and commitment to our community. May this tournament be the first of many successful endeavours that bring us together and propel us towards a brighter future,” she said. Mayor Maila appreciated the presence of the MEC.
