Parys
The much-anticipated 2025 Edgar Legoale Festive Soccer Tournament is scheduled to take place at Mandela Sports Grounds from 13 to 21 December 2025. In a statement the foundation said that the preparations are at an advanced stage for this powerful platform showcasing talent development, community upliftment, and raising awareness about critical social issues that affect local communities.
The foundation has recommitted to nurturing young talent from grassroots levels. Just like in past years, the event will have scouts from professional soccer teams on the lookout for emerging stars from ekasi.
DJ Pots, the tournament Director told The Sports Eye, “This year, we’re also excited to launch our new Soccer Youth Development Programme, which will provide essential equipment – like kits, balls, and training gear – to struggling local teams. This initiative aims to level the playing field, ensuring that every aspiring footballer has the tools to chase their dreams and contribute positively to their communities.
“We’re calling on businesses, investors, and philanthropists to join us as partners in this transformative event. With over 10,000 attendees expected – including passionate fans, families, and soccer enthusiasts – the tournament offers unparalleled exposure through livestreaming on all Central News digital platforms, our proud main sponsor.”
Sponsorship opportunities range from Bronze to Platinum packages, each tailored to deliver real value, such as co-branding, on-site activations, media shout-outs, and direct community impact. By investing in us, you’re not just supporting soccer development; you’re fueling youth empowerment, talent scouting, and the fight against GBV – all while boosting your brand in a meaningful way. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our media partners, Metsimaholo FM, Unplayable, and Blaqsnaps Media, for helping amplify our message far and wide.
Edgar Legoale, the Chairman of the Edgar Legoale Foundation said, “As we celebrate seven years of the Edgar Legoale Festive Soccer Tournament, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come in turning a simple love for the game into a force for good in our communities. This event started as a way to showcase raw kasi talent and give young lads a shot at the big leagues, but it’s grown into so much more – a rallying cry against the injustices that plague our society, especially gender-based violence. Seeing scouts from pro teams spotting gems in our players fills me with pride, and now, with our new youth development programme handing out equipment to under-resourced sides, we’re ensuring no talent gets left behind.
“What motivates me most is the real impact we make on the ground. In a country where stats show over a third of women facing violence, and with rising cases right here in the Free State, we can’t just sit back. This tournament is our way of kicking GBV out of our kasis – through fun, football, and frank discussions that empower everyone to step up. The compulsory GBV campaign for winners isn’t just a rule; it’s a commitment to lasting change, inspiring teams to lead awareness drives in their own backyards and build stronger, safer neighbourhoods.
“I’m passionate about creating opportunities that go beyond the pitch. Our festive and Easter tournaments have become staples, drawing crowds of over 10,000 and putting Parys on the map. But we need partners to take it to the next level – sponsors who see the value in investing in youth, sport, and social justice. Whether it’s through branding on our livestreams or on-site engagements, your support helps us scout talent, equip teams, and fight GBV, all while giving back to the community that needs it most.”
About 32 teams will battle it out, with free affiliation for all. Prizes total R100,000 – R80,000 for first place, R15,000 for second, and R5,000 for third. Teams must submit a profile with pictures, a motivation for entry, and the registration form.
For more information or to register: Contact DJ Pots, Tournament Manager, at 078 466 2089 or soccer@edgarlegoale.com.
