The inaugural APAA Development Champion Tournament took place in Soweto Moletsane, featuring the Mike Stars U15 team among the top 8 contenders.
This marked the commencement of the 2024 APAA development stage competitions. On Saturday, March 23, the U15 category participated in a tournament where 8 teams were divided into two groups of 4. Each team played 3 games, vying for advancement to the semi-finals and ultimately the final. This event served as our first official presentation of the year as part of our preparation for the SAFA Soweto Johannesburg Development League season 2024, scheduled to commence after the school holiday in the first week of April.
To clinch the title, the players engaged in a total of 5 games. While the primary focus was on playing rather than winning, the competitive spirit inevitably crowned victors. We extend congratulations to all the players, ranging from 13 to 15 years old, who participated. Mixing players of varying ages provided them with the opportunity to face opponents of different skill levels, thereby fostering their growth and development.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Nkosikona Mokwena (affectionately known as “King”), with assistance from Coach Khethukuthula Ntshele and GK Coach Mphunlani Radebe, the technical aspect was meticulously addressed. We express gratitude to the parents who attended and supported the players. The afternoon was filled with football fervor, showcasing the enthusiasm and effort of each team.
Special commendation goes to the organizers, particularly Coach Mike, the director of the Mike Stars Academy. The tournament offered invaluable experience to all participants, including players and coaches alike.
These competitions serve a dual purpose of player and coach development. They provide a platform for identifying areas of improvement at the individual, group, and team levels.
Throughout the tournament, our team emerged victorious in 4 games and secured a draw in the final, ultimately triumphing in a penalty shootout. Congratulations once again to our U15 team, who continue to make strides towards a promising future in professional football, potentially featuring in developmental stage teams.
Stay tuned for further updates.
