In a thrilling showdown at the second edition of the Ramaja annual soccer tournament, held at Magokgwane village in Ramatlabama, Mahikeng, two visiting teams from Rustenburg and Jabavu in Soweto showcased their football prowess.
This annual event, launched in 2022 by Mahikeng Local Municipality Ward 3 Councillor Lucas "Nuna" Motlhabane and his cousin, Thabo Dingaan, in commemoration of their shared birthday in September, brought soccer enthusiasts together for a spectacular three-day extravaganza.
Initially scheduled for the previous month, the tournament had to be rescheduled due to family commitments. However, the 2023 edition proved a resounding success, with teams vying for supremacy on the pitch. The tournament, held from last week Friday to Sunday, attracted spectators and participants from near and far.
Two formidable teams from outside Mahikeng, representing Rustenburg and Jabavu in Soweto, joined the competition. In an action-packed series of matches, they battled to the top, making their presence known in the North West provincial capital. The visiting Soweto team, Jabavu Masters, emerged victorious at their first appearance in the annual soccer extravaganza.
The tournament's final match showcased Jabavu Masters against the defending champions Pk6, a team hailing from Tsetse village near Ramatlabama. In a fiercely contested game, Jabavu Masters secured a 2-1 victory, claiming the championship title in the Ramaja annual soccer tournament. Beyond the intense football action, the event provided entertainment for all ages.
A nearby house was dedicated to children's enjoyment, offering attractions such as jumping castles, portable swimming pools, and various forms of entertainment. Food vendors and hawkers also reaped the benefits of the tournament, as the soccer pitch was situated on the outskirts of the village. This convenient setup ensured that spectators did not miss a moment of the action and could enjoy refreshments and snacks without venturing far from the excitement.
As the final whistle blew and the celebrations began, Jabavu Masters emerged as the champions of the second edition of the Ramaja annual soccer tournament. They pocketed gold medals and a R25 000 cash prize while the runners-up took home R15 000 and silver medals. This annual event continues to grow in popularity, bringing together communities and soccer enthusiasts from different corners of the region.
The organisers, Motlhabane and Dingaan can take pride in their successful initiative that combines the love of soccer with the spirit of togetherness and celebration. The Ramaja annual soccer tournament is set to become a fixture on the local sports calendar, promising more thrilling action and memorable moments in the years to come.
