STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY SPORT DEVELOPMENT

Fifteen local football coaches within the Madibeng Local Municipality have completed their Confederation of African Football (CAF) C Licence qualification as part of a local sports development programme designed to strengthen local coaching capacity and provide more opportunities for youth within surrounding communities.

Funded by De Wildt Solar, the accredited training equipped participants with formal technical skills aligned to recognised standards, improving the quality of coaching, empowering local teams, and supporting structured pathways for player and coach development.

“Being part of this programme has played a vital role in our growth, providing access to competitive structures and opportunities across multiple sporting codes. With this support, I’ve been able to complete both my SAFA D Licence and CAF C Diploma, strengthening my coaching abilities. The Mmadamo Sports Organisation continues to create a valuable platform for teams and players to develop and showcase their talent, and we are proud to be part of it,” said Coach Malatji of Thetele Youth Development.

The coaches, selected from Mmadamo Sports Development League football structures within the Madibeng Local Football Association, were chosen based on their existing SAFA D Licence credentials. Training took place over 15 days in two phases between November 2024 and April 2025 at Ramogodi Community Hall and Sefako Makgatho University.

Launched in 2023, the programme has achieved several important milestones. These include the establishment of the 18-team Mmadamo Football League and a 9-team netball league, supported league participation, and enabled 28 coaches to complete SAFA D Licences alongside the 15 now C Licence qualified. Teams such as Mapetla FC and Mawete FC have also progressed to the Bojanala Regional League.

“The purpose of this training is to enhance local coaching capacity and improve the quality of football development in our communities. By investing in coaches, we are investing in young people, stronger leagues, and long-term community participation in sport,” said Qinisani Siveshe, Social Performance Manager for De Wildt Solar.

Beyond training, the sports development programme has provided ongoing support to both coaches and teams. This includes facilitating participation in affiliated football and netball leagues, organising friendly matches with academies and higher league teams to expose player talent, and supplying football kits and golf shirts for match participation.