Sport as a Catalyst for Social Cohesion and Nation Building
The Sgangeni Sports Ground in Matjhabeng, Welkom, came alive from 18–21 April 2025, hosting the 14th Annual Easter Soccer and Netball Tournament; a showcase of social cohesion, community spirit, and growing youth talent. Over 64 teams battled for top honours across soccer and netball, transforming the grounds into a true arena of champions.
The tournament, the brainchild of Pule Maine Foundation, has grown in leaps and bounds since its inception. This year saw a significant growth, with the number of participating teams doubling from 32 to 64, a clear indication to the event’s growing popularity and impact.
Gracing the event was Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, whose presence demonstrated the tournament’s importance to the broader agenda of social cohesion, nation building and youth empowerment. The Premier hailed the event as more than just a competition but as a symbol of unity, resilience, and hope for the province’s youth.
Sport is a powerful instrument for social cohesion and nation-building,” the Premier noted. “It unites communities, nurtures talent, and provides young people with a platform to flourish, stay focused, and steer clear of crime, substance abuse, and other social ills.
The tournament enjoyed generous support from various businesses, demonstrating a growing partnership between private enterprise, and civil society. This collaboration aligns with the Premier’s vision of building a united and resilient Free State — one where stakeholders work together to address poverty, inequality, gender-based violence, and youth unemployment.
Premier Letsoha-Mathae commended the Pule Maile Foundation for its unwavering commitment to community development, applauding the foundation for organizing a tournament that not only showcases talent but also inspires hope and ambition among young people.
“This initiative is a shining example of how strategic community partnerships can fight lawlessness and foster long-term economic growth and social stability,” Premier Letsoha-Mathae
The Premier was accompanied by MEC for Education, Dr Mantlhake Maboya
