Young Bafana had its annual Prize Giving Ceremony at the YB Arena on Saturday the 11th of November 2023.
The YB Arena was transformed into a spectacle of joy and excitement as players, coaches, parents, and supporters gathered to applaud the outstanding efforts and accomplishments of the academy’s rising stars. The Annual Prize Giving Ceremony serves as a momentous occasion to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and passion that each individual brings to the academy.
The event kicked-off with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an evening filled with anticipation and unity. General Manager Graham Knott delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the core values of the academy. The highlight of the event was the prize-giving segment, recognizing players for their outstanding contributions and highlighting the academy’s commitment to excellence. Founder Bernd Steinhage shared a visionary perspective, reflecting on the academy’s journey and expressing gratitude. The festivities concluded with Young Bafana’s international interns serving a light lunch, fostering camaraderie among players, families, and guests. The event not only celebrated past accomplishments but also reinforced the sense of purpose and community that defines Young Bafana Soccer Academy, leaving a lasting impact on all in attendance.
Players of the Year
Motlwang Mthembu
& Wayne Siyolise (not pictured)
Sportsmen of the Year
Sandiso Nqulushe
& Themba Baka (not pictured)
Most Improved Player
Sibusiso Saul (not pictured)
Player of the Year
Thithiba Ncuze
Sportsman of the Year
Bonga Mchweba
Most Improved Player
Hlumelo Nyalambisa
Player of the Year
Sam Muyengwa
Sportsman of the Year
Malachi Lewis
Most Improved Player
Sfungo Mbaba
Player of the Year
Akhanani Mselewento
Sportsman of the Year
Mihle Silihasa
Most Improved Player
Senokkolo Fenama
Most Improved Player
Siyathemba Ngwenze
Player of the Year
Lisakhanya Tatsi
Keano Moses
Wade and Kristle Rebello
Player of the Year
Regan Malan
Most Improved Player
Sakhe Mntuyedwa
Player of the Year
Athenkosi Base
Most Improved Player
Carlos Charirwe
Young Bafana participated in the Telekom-Star-Kick event in Bonn, Germany with a star-studded team, featuring legends like Paulo Sergio and Lucio. The event was a big success and Young Bafana ultimately finished 2nd.
Meet Themba Baka. A boy from the Lwandle township who joined Young Bafana 8 years ago as a little boy – not old enough to play and struggling with schoolwork. Today he is a promising young athlete and student enjoying success on and off the football pitch thanks to the help of Young Bafana.
Discover how Young Bafana Soccer Academy, nestled in South Africa, is passionately embracing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to drive sustainability and equality. By focusing primarily on the first five SDGs—ranging from eradicating poverty and hunger to promoting gender equality and quality education—Young Bafana empowers young athletes while actively engaging with their community.
Are you passionate about sports and soccer with a heart for community upliftment? Then this internship is for you. Young Bafana is in need of an event marketing intern from December 2023 to March 2024. The internship will take place at Young Bafana in Strand, South Africa. Apply now for the experience of a lifetime at one of South Africa’s best soccer academies.
Young Bafana is proud to send 2 of our most promising players, Liqhawe and Donay, to our partner club in France for the opportunity of a lifetime. Liqhawe and Donay will be representing Young Bafana in Europe whilst training with Clermont Foot 63 for a couple of weeks.
On the 29. April, we as Young Bafana Soccer Academy wrote History. We made a sensational impact in their inaugural season by clinching the ABC Motsepe League of Western Cape title. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team, as well as the strategic guidance provided by their exceptional coach, Ashraf Calvert.
