Despite only being in existence for two years, Barcelona Spurs, from Portland, are already making a significant impact on the local football scene.
This past weekend, they hosted their very first soccer tournament, the Salaludien Davids under-18 Cup in commemoration of their former treasurer and exco member who passed away in June.
Public relations officer at the club, Yumna Arendse said, while they were preparing for the tournament they were shocked by the untimely passing of Davids.
Chairman Aslam Carr and his exco members came up with the idea to name the cup after him.
Arendse said Davids was not only the treasurer, he also coached and mentored the under-10 team.
Prior to Barcelona Spurs’ existence, Davids ploughed his experience at Montrose United, Ashley Rovers Football Club and Golden United Football Club.
“He would go out of his way to fetch the kids from all over Mitchell’s Plain. He would make sure they eat and are safe,” said Arendse.
“There was one incident where they played in a tournament. It was a free kick and the kid was taking forever to kick the ball. He got in to help the kid to tie his laces. They (opponents) shouted because they were taking a long time. He didn’t like that,” she said.
Assistant at the club, Shireen Moosa said Davids’ passion for football was evident on and off the field.
Carr said 32 teams participated in the two-day tournament at the weekend.
Everton Football Club, from Nyanga, were crowned the inaugural champions after beating Bayview Football Club 5-4 on penalties, following a 0-0 draw in full time.
Plate winners were Tafelzucht, shield winners CMES Football Club from Athlone and the special winners were Leeds Football Club. Plate runners up were Pro-Stars, and shield winners Bonteheuwel.
Siyanda Dlongwe from Everton was named player of the tournament and the club’s Thabo Matlodi was manager of the tournament.
Highest goal scorer was Blue Downs’ Cheslyn Hendricks. Goalkeeper of the tournament belonged to Ricardo Jackson.
“This is a turning point for the youth. We don’t want them to go to the streets, so we keep them on the soccer field. First year of the event is done. For next year we plan to have it even bigger with clubs from all over the Western Cape and scouts from all over the country,” said Carr.
