I have always been enthusiastic about supporting the Gavin Manuel Interschools Legacy Cup — for a couple of important reasons.
First and foremost, Manuel, or Goofy as he was affectionately known, was my Vodacom League coach back in the late nineties. Stern and no‑nonsense, he had the rare ability to tap into not just the player, but the person — understanding the individual behind the footballer. It was indicative of his educator’s persona, the way he got his message across, often with a touch of dry humour. The rest, as they say, is history.
Secondly, Manuel’s impact on players was immense. He nurtured and developed them into top professionals, with legends like Duncan Crowie, his brother Desmond, and Gerald Stober standing as testament to the positive influence he had on their lives and careers.
With so much history and legacy to preserve, and given the recent developments, I have genuine fears and concerns that this event could possibly be hijacked by those seeking political relevance or cheap publicity.
This concern arose after Safa Cape Town “invited” themselves to the launch of this ever‑growing schools event, scheduled for 15:30 at Mondale High School in Mitchells Plain on Wednesday, 16 September.
Now, my feelings may sound harsh, but it isn’t and here’s why… Since the event’s inception in 2016, the Mother Body was always informed and even invited — yet never once showed up because it probably never served their needs and interests. I can vouch for this, having attended every edition of this event. Never have I seen Bailey or any of his associates present, which makes one wonder about their sudden interest now.
In fact, they deemed it a rebel but now they suddenly rubber stamped it? How convenient!
Whatever their motives, we urge them: please do not use this platform for political gain. Keep it true to its intended purpose — honouring Gavin Manuel’s legacy and uplifting the young footballers who carry it forward hence it is vital that the organisers protect this tournament at all costs.
Meanwhile, No Bones with Jones can confirm that the event, which takes place on 28 and 29 September, has been moved from the Rocklands High Sport Fields to the Chukker Road Sport Complex in Kenwyn. This decision wasn’t taken lightly, in fact it is forced due to the fact that there are no suitable facilities available.
