Let’s face it, loyalty in the modern era of football – whether in professional or amateur ranks – is few and far between.
However, one club in particular, Hanover Park FC, has proven otherwise.
This was evident during their 43rd annual presentation awards where members were duly rewarded for longevity, commitment and loyalty.
This was also emphasized by Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis, who was one of the guest speakers at Hanover Park FC’s end-of-season function held at the Belthorn Community Hall on Saturday Evening.
Ellis, who also grew up in Hanover Park, emphasized that it is pleasing to witness that most of the club’s stalwarts – whom she also knows from her childhood- still plays an active role for the club – on and off the field.
“This (loyalty) is an aspect that has become a rare trait, especially in football,” Ellis told No Bones with Jones. “But seeing awards presented to members for 40-, 30- and 20-years of service for the club is truly admirable.
“You have shown that life does not stop when your playing career is over. I also need to pay tribute to the club’s chairman Rieduwaan Anthony, for his unselfish role and commitment, not just to football, but to the broader Hanover Park community.
“His unwavering passion and love for the game and his fellow human beings, is just remarkable,” said Ellis who was recently crowned Africa’s Coach of the Year (Women) for the fourth season in a row.
Des, as Ellis is affectionately known, has also reminded the members that each of them has a role to play in making Hanover Park a better place to live.
“We all have a deep love for the place as it played a role in our lives and the people we are today,” Ellis further stated. “A lot of good has come from Hanover Park over the years despite its challenges with gangsterism and drugs.
Therefore, I urge you, to play your part within the community. Don’t turn a blind eye when you see something wrong. Stand up for what is right and stand up to be counted. Play your part to make Hanover Park a better place,” Ellis added.
Meanwhile, Safa Cape Town’s technical director Boebie Solomons has reminded the public that South Africa and especially Cape Town has some of the world’s best (footballing) talent.
“I can say with confidence as I have travelled quite a bit and if I compare our players with the rest of the world, then I must say that we are naturally gifted,” said the Cape soccer legend.
“Our parents and players don’t really need a lot of skill to be a top player. You must make good decisions in life. If you live in a gang-ridden area it doesn’t mean that you cannot excel and cannot contribute to society.
Sport does help you to achieve certain patterns in life. “I come from Silvertown, Kewtown area but that does not determine your destiny. Remember better communities build a better society,” Solomons concluded.
