By Joseph Chirume<\/p>\n
.Qgeberha<\/p>\n
The Heavens have opened for a group of young soccer talented girls from Nelson Mandela Bay who will travel to Germany in October to participate in a youth soccer exchange program.<\/p>\n
The team of 16 soccer passionate girls were blessed on Wednesday with a new soccer kit provided by the Municipality at the Gelvandale Soccer Fields.<\/p>\n
The exchange program is an initiative between NMBM, South African Football Association (SAFA) Nelson Mandela Bay Region and the city of Braunschweig, a sister-city of NMBM.<\/p>\n
NMBM spokesperson, Sithembiso Soyaya said, \u201cThe squad consists of 16 talented players and two coaches, all proudly representing and residing in Nelson Mandela Bay.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe initiative marks a historic first for the youth of Nelson Mandela Bay, offering a powerful platform to showcase local talent while highlighting the city\u2019s capacity on an international stage.\u201d<\/p>\n
In his closing remarks, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality\u2019s Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO) and International Relations Director, Mr Lulamile Moolman praised the girls as they received the kit.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis exchange programme forms part of our broader vision to build a transformed and inclusive city, while nurturing and developing local talent. As you embark on this journey, remember that each of you has the potential to grow, compete, and succeed. What matters most is that you give your best and strive to improve with every opportunity. We are confident in your abilities and proud of what you represent for the Metro. Stay focused, remain disciplined, and continue working hard both on and off the field. Opportunities like these can open doors for your future in football and beyond. While you may not have the same level of support when you are abroad, always remember that here in Nelson Mandela Bay, you carry the full support of the entire city. Make every moment count, give it your all, and make us proud,\u201d stated Mr. Moolman.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the same event, Mr Siya Isaacs from the Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture Directorate encouraged the players to embrace the opportunity beyond competition, \u201cIt is an honour to be here, you have been selected because you are among the best. However, this journey is not just about winning; it is about learning and growing. We must learn from one another and recognise that we are all working towards a common purpose. While challenges may arise, they present opportunities for growth and reflection. Let us appreciate the knowledge shared and the experience gained.\u201d<\/p>\n
SAFA Nelson Mandela Bay President, Mr Clive Killian, added his support by congratulating the energetic girls on their achievement and urged them to represent the Metro with pride, discipline, and sportsmanship. He emphasised the importance of unity, hard work, and making the most of the international exposure as ambassadors of Nelson Mandela Bay.<\/p>\n
One of the soccer payers, Taylor Hawkins (15) attributed her success to her coaches who taught her how to kick the ball when in grade five.<\/p>\n
\u00a0\u201cI have been selected for the exchange program to go and play in Germany in October. I feel so privileged to be able to be here after all the hard work and all the training sessions that we had to go through. I actually feel so nervous because it\u2019s overseas I feel so excited to meet you people.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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