TCE 2 Triumphs Over Soshanguve South in Netball Encounter

 By Zanele Mfaba

The netball court at Soshanguve South Campus was charged with energy as TCE 2 clashed with the home team in a thrilling match of skill and strategy. In this battle of netball supremacy, it was TCE 2 who emerged victorious after exhibiting exceptional control and coordination throughout all four quarters of play.

Image by Zanele Mfaba

The opening whistle saw TCE 2 take charge of the game by showcasing remarkable coordination on the court. Their active movements allowed them to swiftly move past the opposition defense while precisely passing among themselves en route to scoring points. This skillful performance from TCE 2 exposed flaws in Soshanguve South's defensive organization resulting in numerous goals.

 TCE 2 continued to control both ends of the court as the game went on. Their defensive players displayed great activity, intercepting passes and sabotaging the attacking plays of Soshanguve South. TCE 2 effectively shut off their opponents' scoring chances to seize control of the game. Mzwandile Dlamini the events organizer said, ”Seeing what I envisioned come to life is the best thing, I like the fact that both teams prepared very well for this day which is what makes people more entertained, and as an organizer that is my end goal.”

 The scoreboard showed 29 points for TCE 2 and 19 for Soshanguve South after the game was over. TCE 2 had a great victory, displaying their talent and strength throughout the entire contest.”I genuinely enjoyed this game because I felt like we had it at the palm of our hands, though I should say the other tried to challenge us,”said Mpho Mabasa a TCE 2 player. They executed their game plan brilliantly and took advantage of every opportunity that presented themselves, demonstrating their superiority without a doubt on the floor.

Image by Zanele Mfaba

Despite the outcome, Soshanguve South deserves praise for their persistence and unity. Although they were up against a difficult foe in TCE 2, they never gave up and fought to the bitter finish. Their players showed brilliance and promise for upcoming games as they continue to sharpen their skills and get back into shape. “I enjoyed watching the game especially seeing TCE2 win because I am ready to see them go up against Shaka in the next league,” said Tebatso Malatji a spectator.

 This match between TCE 2 and Soshanguve South was a great monument to the spirit of competition and the joy of the sport. This battle provided as a tremendous learning lesson for Soshanguve South, forcing them to recover, change their plans, and return stronger in their future undertakings.

 

Elite Griffins prove their consistency in the court against Shaka

 By Zanele Mfaba

 

The game took place at Block K Courts at 10:00 on the 29^th of April. Initially the game was supposed to take place at the Shaka stadium but because the venue was already reserved for other sports events people had to move to the other venue. Tension was already brewing between the two teams because of the changes made like the time change from 08:00 to 10:00.

Image from Instagram

Things were looking very good for Shaka in the first half which had everyone believing that they had this one in the bag. As dominating as Shaka was it was no secret that the Elite Griffins were not backing down they knew very well what they came for.

 Leaving the first half with Shaka at a leading 9 points and 8 for the Elite Griffins. There were new strategies being brought to the court by the Elite Griffins when coming back to the second half like bringing the coach in as a replacement. It looks like the coach had grilled the team pretty well as they came back stronger in the second putting pressure on Shaka.

Image by Zanele Mfaba

“The team did not play well at all, I think I should add more players. What made it more difficult was that we were playing up against people who are well experienced as they have won the previous Basketball Movement  Association B.M.A league”, said Peter Mathule the Shaka coach.

Shaka lost to the Elite Griffins by 19-13 and fans were not happy at all. Paballo Moganedi, a Shaka fan said,”Besides the screaming I felt like getting into the court and shaking the players because they were fumbling with the ball a lot.”

 On the other hand the Elite Griffins were rejoicing. Coach and player Thomas Mametja had this to say,”This year feels like ours considering our win at the B.M.A league. The only problem I have is with the other teams because they do not respect the time set and I feel like they lack discipline.”

 It seems the Elite Griffins are out to get bigger and greater things in the future of basketball.

 

 

 

 

Shaka United Claw Their Way To Victory

By Zanele Mfaba

Shaka United and MFD Chelamoya squared off on May 20 in a highly anticipated match that took place in the quarterfinals of the Philly's Game Champ of Champs qualifiers at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe stadium in Atteridgeville. Shaka United won the penalty shootout 5-4 after the game, which featured a nail-biting exhibition of talent and tenacity, concluded in a 2-2 stalemate.

Image from Google

 It was clear that MFD Chelamoya was determined to establish their dominance on the field as soon as the game began. They continually threatened Shaka United's defense with quick passes, deft plays, and lightning-quick counterattacks, showcasing their offensive power in full. 

In the 25th minute, MFD Chelamoya's star forward—whose name escapes us at the moment—scored with a beautiful finish from outside the box as a result of their constant pressure. The goal electrified the already boisterous crowd, and MFD Chelamoya's supporters celebrated wildly.

 Shaka United did not back down in the face of MFD Chelamoya's constant assault. Player 9 popularly known as "Problem Child," served as the perfect example of Shaka’s tenacity.”It was a tough match but I am very impressed with how the boys played, they applied everything I said to them and I am looking forward to tomorrow,” said Shaka United coach Bongani Xulu. Problem Child demonstrated his precise scoring abilities in the 55th minute to level the score after MFD Chelamoya made a defensive error. This marked the culmination of Shaka United's perseverance.

Image by Zanele Mfaba

Problem Child once more rose to the occasion with just a few minutes left on the clock, showcasing his exceptional instincts in the penalty area. He achieved the equalizer with a precisely timed header from a precision cross, forcing extra time.

 Shaka United demonstrated immovable nerves in the penalty shootout. Each participant took the field with assurance and successfully converted their particular spot-kick. MFD Chelamoya confronted them head-on while maintaining their composure.MFD Chelamoya coach Peter Motaung said, ”Unfortunately, the guys did a good job by bringing a challenge but I guess the other team had better tactics.”

Image by Zanele Mfaba

The crucial kick came in the sixth round of penalties, when Shaka United's final penalty went in, setting up extreme excitement among their supporters and players. In order to advance to the next round of the Philly's Game Champ of Champs qualifiers, the unshakable Shaka United had to defeat the MFD Chelamoya team, who were in complete control. MFD player S’fiso Mbatha said, “We will work on appliance and always expect a stronger comeback from the opposing team.” 

Shaka United can celebrate their victory as the on an exciting match. They still have a long way to go before winning the Philly's Game Champ of Champs title, but they will likely carry this victory's momentum into their upcoming matches.

Survival Of The Fittest!

By: Sharon Kopano Mawila

Who are we FC knocks off  Motla young stars FC

We witnessed tables turn between Who are we FC (WAWFC) and Motla young stars FC as they went head to head in the sports ground.

Emotions were high as WAWFC and Motla young FC starts went head to head on the 1^st of May at Ga-Mmotla, Hammaskraal. On a cloudy Monday of workers day having the sports ground of Dream team packed with supporters from different locations.

On the first half of the match, which was 37’.Teams struggled to score as they were still picking up their pace, they were only starting. 21’ minutes into the game Tshireletso Mphela of Motla young stars FC scored a goal, putting the match to a 1:0.

The second half of the game was a table turner as changes were made in the sport ground. A dispute between two teams landed Motla young stars a penalty as player 15 was pushed by the opposing team and it secured yet another goal for Motla young stars FC.

The refereeing style of the referee left players with a lot of questions for instance Tshepo Mahlangu  (17) Captain of WAWFC said“The game was unfair  because, the referee was giving out he is bought vibes. Most of the fouls made by Motla young stars were out looked by the referee while on our side he saw them and made sure they go unpunished”.

The score took a turn as WAWFC scored which made the score 2:1. Team players were switched and jersey (3) Boitshoko of WAWFC came to the rescue as he scored the second score that made a tie on the 60’ of the match.

The tie meant they needed penalties to determine the team to make it to the finals. WAWFC scored 4 while Motla young stars FC scored only 2. This made WAWFC the team that proceed to the finals. Tshepang Motshegoa (30) Chairman of WAWFC shared his feelings about going to the finals that “I am happy because I always wanted this since a long time”

Motla young  FC starts did not take the lose very well the coach of Motla young stars FC Billy Motsomi (Ballasta) (49)  said he thinks “The ball was dropped on the last minute of the game and he is looking to work on the teams awareness, urgency and concentrantion.”

WAWFC is yet to proceed to play with Belgium.

  

RIXILE MABASA, A TRUE VISIONARY

On her road to success, she is very grateful for the love and support she has been receiving from everyone around her.

 Rixile Mabasa (23) otherwise known as "Rishile" is a young businesswoman who currently lives in Garankuwa. She was born in Malamulele, Greenfarm Village in Limpopo, and sees Pretoria as a place to make big moves she had never thought she’d make.

Image from Instagram

A young woman who can juggle so many things at once like being a student, a mother, a businesswoman, a daughter and a girlfriend. “It’s a struggle but sometimes you just have to find it in yourself to push yourself harder than you’ve ever pushed yourself,” said Mabasa.

She has been deep into the roads of Limpopo,  she went to Tsundzukani Primary  School and Hlungwani High School. Mabasa pretty much enjoyed her high school years.

She completed her Matric and went on to further her studies at the Tshwane University of Technology, doing her third year in Hospitality.

Her business ventures didn’t only come to selling crocs, she started selling in 2020. “It was tough at first hey, I remember when I started selling anklets. I saw anklets from this Chinese store, I told myself this would be a great business opportunity for me considering the environment I’m in,” she explained.

Image from Instagram

She went on with her business seeing it bloom and become prosperous with orders coming in. Going door to door to deliver at Ekhaya Junction with the help of her boyfriend in all of this.

According to her boyfriend Erol Maluleke, she came back with a picture to show him that she has a business idea of selling anklets and he decided to support her by giving her some capital to start her business.

Mabasa added that she was a bit skeptical about the business especially because she was worried about what would people say. When thinking of her situation that made her throw all those doubts away.

 Her biggest accomplishment is that she has grown her business, she no longer sells anklets, has hired people and now does her deliveries using PEP paxi. Selling crocs is one of her business adventures now.

Failing Computer Literacy in her first year was her biggest failure. She highlights that because of the lack of access to computers, she struggled with tests and didn’t give the module enough love. Lastly falling pregnant contributed a lot to her not giving her studies enough time. 

 “As an everyday busy person I wouldn’t say I have hobbies whenever I get some time to myself I would either be watching TV whilst decorating the crocs that I’m selling now,” responded Mabasa when asked what her hobbies are.

 Mabasa would like to believe that there are three things that got her where she is right now. The first one was her boyfriend as he gave her capital to start her business,  second, her fear of poverty, and lastly her grandmother because she used to sell for a living to care for her mom and aunt.

When asked who is her biggest inspiration, Mabasa happily said that she is her own inspiration because she’s one person who thinks of ideas and brings them to life. She has shown resilience and that to her is one of the things she admires about herself.

LONALINAMANDLA FINALLY GETS HER BREAKTHROUGH

By: Sitembile Mazaleni

After 7 years Lonalinamandla Mihlali Bawuti (28) finally receives positive feedback from the numerous unsuccessful auditions she has been to as a young actress. The selfless humorous Lonalinamandla is amongst the cast of the new exciting telenovela Gqeberha The Empire on Mzansi Magic as Nobom Mxenge in cooperation with the legendary Zikhona Sodlaka and Zandile Msuthwana.

Image from Facebook

Lonalinamandla was born and bred in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape as the lastborn out of two children. Her supportive mother and family are the reason behind her sense of humour and kindness.

She said, “When I am at home I become a child, there is no one who teases me like her.”

With the widest smile, she added, “Her love and support is amazing. In the next life, I want to have her as a mother again.”

“9 days after graduating I realised office work is not my thing, I just cannot stand routine. The very last audition I did, my mum was holding the camera because my ring lighter broke…I swear I am blessed, and this is only the beginning.”

Lonalinamandla studied Science stream subjects at Khanyisa High School in Mthatha, then went for the greener pastures in Gauteng. She studied an Advertising qualification from Boston College, Performing Arts at Actor Space, and Film and Television studies at City Varsity School of Media and Performing Arts.

Image from Facebook

This woman’s hustling spirit cannot be matched, she became popular when she went to twitter to promote her sister’s fruit and vegetable stand. She advertised and worked as a street vendor with her sister at Memela Taxi rank in Mthatha.

Numerous people got to know Lonalinamandla when she compassionately organised and pleaded with her Facebook friends to donate money to take an underprivileged boy to initiation school.

In one of her posts she posted, “I am waiting for my Doctors and Lawyer friends to get paid because I know we can help this family.”

Her posts were shared using, #UmgidikaBoy. It trended to an extent that big brands and companies started to chip in their donations and the money amounted to close to R180 000. Her campaign became a huge success and tiktokers, tweeps, and bookers began calling her “Izibazana leCountry” (the Country’s mother of the initiate).

After the entire celebration with the boy’s family and the public’s gratitude towards Lonalinamandla, she saw it fit to start a project where she picks less fortunate people and buys them necessities such as food, school wear, etc. She was also part of the leading people in the Gender Based Violence (GBV) case #JusticeForNamhla campaign in Mthatha High Court.

Image from Facebook

Though Lonalinamandla does not shy away from publicising her love life, her disclosing that she is a GBV survivor came as a shock. She detailed her traumatic experience in a thread, “I went to support a fellow actor who had a theatre showpiece about GBV. Not me being all emotional, I wish I could start afresh just to insult him.”

Some people try to bring this young woman down by cyberbullying her, but she prefers to avoid anything that is harmful to her mental health, brand, and loved ones. Her friends and fans are always ready to defend her.

A lot can be sad about the opinionated Lonalinamandla, her personality, and her positive approach to life lessons and misfortunes, she truly reflects her favourite quote, “I am a woman of positive influence, a sunshine that will brighten up your day.” 

EFF’s June 16 Lecture at TUT main campus

By Zanele Mfaba

To honour the historical importance of the Soweto uprising, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) planned a significant event on June 16 at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) main campus. Commissar Nkululeko Dunga gave an engaging speech about the long-lasting effects of this significant occasion in South Africa's history.

Image from Google

With its lively atmosphere and rich student culture, the TUT main campus served as an appropriate location for EFF’s celebration. A day of meditation, memory, and discussion was held on campus because of banners and other decorations depicting the Soweto uprising's liberation movement.

Commissar Nkululeko Dunga, a charismatic speaker and expert on South Africa's liberation war, gave a motivational speech on the significance of the Soweto uprising. The crowd was moved by Dunga's powerful speech, which perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the courageous youth who rebelled against the tyrannical apartheid state.

Image by Zanele Mfaba

Dunga effectively discussed the historical background of the Soweto uprising in his presentation, bringing attention to the numerous injustices experienced by black students in the educational system. He provided insight into the selfless protests made by young people who were obliged to speak Afrikaans as the major language of instruction. Dunga emphasised the significance of honouring their sacrifice as well as the continuous fight for social justice and high-quality education.

Engaging Conversation and Interaction: The programme promoted active audience involvement and offered a venue for lively conversation and interaction. Participants got the chance to ask questions and voice their opinions, generating a sense of shared memory and education. Dunga's perceptive comments showed off his thorough knowledge of the subject, enhancing the event for everyone in attendance.

The EFF's celebration honoured the past while also honouring the current spirit of youth activism and solidarity. Participating student organisations and neighbourhood organisations demonstrated their commitment to fighting for social justice and a better future. The occasion served as a call to action for the youth to band together and keep up the battle for a just and inclusive South Africa. It also served as a reminder of the ongoing fight for a more equal society.

Image by Zanele Mfaba

The EFF's commemoration of the Soweto revolt on June 16 at the Tshwane University of Technology, which included Commissar Nkululeko Dunga's speech, was an impactful and thought-provoking event. To honour the sacrifices made by the young heroes of the past, the event brought together students, activists, and community members and successfully provided a platform for contemplation, education, and involvement. 

The event motivated participants to continue the battle for a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa by spotlighting the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice. Through activities like this, we honour and commemorate the youthful indomitable spirit that had a significant impact on the history of the country.