After six days of knockout rounds between 32 youth soccer teams, Cape Town Spurs emerged victorious, beating Stellenbosch FC 2 – 0 to secure their place in history as the Bay Hill Premier Cup marked 32 years of the national u-19 tournament.
The curtain fell on yet another successful instalment of the Bay Hill Premier Cup - the first major community sporting event post-Covid that attracted thousands of spectators.
Both Cape Town Spurs and Stellenbosch FC were well supported as gasps and cheers were heard emanating from the crowd during an intense final match.
Many dignitaries from the sports fraternity attended the event, including Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis and former Bafana Bafana player Shaun Bartlett, who is also the current manager of Cape Town Spurs.
‘The success of the tournament and the support it received from the community shows just how much people value sport. For the youth, nothing builds character and encourages teamwork like belonging to a local club. It also helps to maintain healthy bodies and builds confidence,’ said Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.
A few players stood out and were recognised for their individual accomplishments. The goalkeeper of the series from JL Zwane soccer club saved three penalties against Ubuntu Academy during their game on Sunday, while two players from Hanover Park and Stellenbosch FC were named Top Goal Scorers of the tournament for scoring six goals each for their teams.
The coaches in development who were awarded for their team’s performance, each received a coaching course with the Sports Science Institute valued at R1 500 per candidate.
‘I would like to congratulate all of the teams who took part. It takes dedication and perseverance to be able to compete at that level against clubs from across the country. We also thank the parents, coaches, event organisers and City officials who worked tirelessly to ensure a successful tournament. Your hard work has truly paid off and inspired many young people to follow their passion and reach for their dreams,’ said Councillor Van der Ross
Source: South African Police Service