The Under 9 Tournament at SOS HGPS-BYO was a remarkable event that showcased the budding talents of young athletes. The tournament featured three schools for the girls’ teams and six schools for the boys’ teams. The participants displayed great enthusiasm and determination throughout the competition, making it an exciting and memorable experience for everyone involved.
In the girls’ category, SOS BYO emerged as the champions by securing the top position with six points. Their exceptional performance and teamwork led them to victory. Wonder Park, with their commendable efforts, secured the second position with three points. Meanwhile, REPS, despite their best efforts, faced tough competition and lost both matches, leaving them with the bronze medal.
On the other hand, the boys’ category witnessed fierce competition among the six participating schools. REPS showcased their exceptional skills and determination, earning them the title of victors with an impressive 15 points. Riverdale showcased their talent and secured the second position with 12 points. Wonder Park, with their commendable efforts, earned six points, securing them a respectable position in the tournament. SOS BYO demonstrated their skills and determination to secure four points, placing them in the fourth position. Olive Hill and SOS B-BYO also put on a spirited performance, earning three and one point(s) respectively.
The tournament was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Madinda Ndlovu, who encouraged the young athletes by emphasizing that sports is not only a passion but also a way of life. He emphasized the importance of balancing sports and academics, highlighting that both aspects are crucial for a well-rounded development. Mrs. A Nyathi, in her address, emphasized the school’s commitment to nurturing children not only academically but also in sports. The school aims to develop children from the grassroots level, recognizing that some children may not be academically inclined. Sports can provide them with opportunities to thrive and succeed in the future.
The success of the tournament would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of the tournament organizers led by Terence Chigerwe. Their meticulous planning and execution ensured a smooth and enjoyable event for all participants. Special thanks were extended to Mr Thembani G Nyoni, Mr Khumbulani Tembo (Sports Department), and the soccer coaches Mrs. Bhebhe, Mr. Matobela, and Mr. Tanyanyiwa for their hard work and commitment. Mr. Mora from the IT department was acknowledged for his creative designs for the certificates, adding a touch of elegance to the event.
The tournament was made possible through the generous support of our main sponsors. Mr Bingadadi of Sports Zone provided trophies and medals, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of the young athletes. Mr. Gift of Chings Sports contributed caps, t-shirts, and tracksuits, adding to the sense of team spirit and unity. Simbisa Brands generously donated to the event, supporting the participants with Chicken Inn donations. Their continuous support and belief in the potential of young athletes have been invaluable. Lastly, a heartfelt appreciation was extended to the SOS administration for their unwavering support and commitment to fostering a holistic development environment for the students.
The Under 9 Tournament at SOS was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all participants. It served as a platform to showcase the talent and potential of young athletes, reminding everyone of the importance of sports in shaping well-rounded individuals. The event not only promoted healthy competition but also instilled important values such as teamwork, dedication, and perseverance.