On Thursday, they donated 1 000 free footballs to schools in Meadowlands and Zola, respectively.
The donation also forms part of LaLiga backing the annual KwaMahlobo Festive Games, that takes place over the December 2018 holiday season.
Ruan-Cavallari Van Der Walt, LaLiga’s CSI #Passtheball Project Coordinator, explains, “It’s easy to underestimate the effect a simple gift like a football can have on a child. Yet, it can be life-altering. Donated balls, clothing and equipment galvanise interest in football among the youth.”
He adds, “Even if these kids don’t pursue the game as a profession, playing football encourages the personal development of mind and body. This form of upliftment opens doors to more opportunities and a better future for young South Africans as well as their communities.”
LaLiga, one of the world’s richest premier league in Spain, reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to giving back to local communities. These areas are home to some of South Africa’s most passionate football fans, as well as promising players shaping up to become the game’s stars of tomorrow.
“It was heart-warming to see the kids of Sivelile Primary come out in numbers in a chilly morning to welcome LaLiga and its partners to their school.
The excitement on their faces was what really caught my emotions, as my career also started with a single ball shared amongst friends.
These kids are privileged to get soccer balls, which they will use all year round, keeping them away from streets not idle. It is a great initiative by LaLiga and its partners to bring development and privileges to the kids of Soweto,” says CAF Women Footballer of the Year and Banyana striker Thembi Kgatlane, who graced the occasion.
The donation was made possible in partnership with SAFA.
Image (CAF Women Footballer of the Year and Banyana striker Thembi Kgatlane, posing with one of the learners at the donation ceremony by LaLiga in Soweto).
