MBABANE – EFA Technical Director (TD) Bhekisisa ‘Bizzah’ Mkhonta has cited age cheating and sports grounds as some challenges they face in the Build it tournament.
The coaches reportedly use other players’ certificates for registration purposes during their games.
He revealed this after being quizzed about issues they are facing in the ongoing tournament.
Nevertheless, there are means in place being used to tackle the challenge at hand.
“The playing grounds are okay. Nevertheless, they are not really friendly for young children.
“The coaches rob us a lot. We have, as a result, opted to use even passports to verify suspects.
“We also engage with the parent to confirm the actual age. Soon we will be visiting their schools,” he said.
He also expressed that there were programmes aimed at equipping coaches with more knowledge to assist in their ethical decision-making.
“We always have the Basic Coaching Course held even at regions to keep coaches updated with the latest trends,” Mkhonta said.
The TD also encouraged players to train hard and prepare for these games.
“So far, the standard is high in the places we have hosted games at.
“The players at the remaining Build it Stores yet to be visited should train hard,” he said.
Mkhonta further lauded parents and coaches for supporting the future stars in nurturing their talent.
“We are able to identify future stars in this tournament.
“We aim to select a few players who will one day represent this country at national team level,” he added.
The Under-13 soccer and netball tournament has so far been played in Siteki and Manzini, with the next fixtures scheduled for Siphofaneni tomorrow.
This event will take place at Siphofaneni Sports Ground behind the Police Station. It is scheduled to start at 8am and finish at 2pm.
Manzini Wanderers were crowned champions in this region, while Koria won it in Siteki. Organised by the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) in partnership with Build it Stores, the competition takes place across locations where the eight Build It stores operate.
It will culminate in a national championship where the overall best player will receive a study bursary of E10 000.
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