Other than the initial accreditation debacle, one has to say hats off to the organisers of the Bayhill Premier Cup.
Needless to say it is only right to give credit where it’s due. Their deserved praise stems from what was notably visible on day one of the prestigious u19 Easter spectacle which kicked off on Wednesday (16 April) at the Erica Park Sport Complex in Belhar.
The finals will obviously be shifted to the Home of Cape Town soccer, the Athlone Stadium, on Monday.
So, where does one start? I must add the layout and logistics at the entrance for the participating teams and other dignitaries was well-demarcated and cordoned off. So, too is one the adjacent entrance point used for the spectators.
Upon entering the complex, one is greeted with several food trucks aligned next to the embankment and facing the A-pitch which makes it so convenient for spectators to grab a quick snack.
Some might argue that the pricings are a bit steep especially for a big family, but they can be rest assured it is indeed quality for their buck.
Secondly, the organisers conjured up a rather creative and impressive idea by decorating the grandstand on the A-field – which looked rather dull in the past -into multi-coloured showpiece, featuring a delightful blue, green, yellow and purple – reminiscent of the tournament’s new logo.
The playing surfaces as always are once again in tip-top condition, especially the A-field which allows for carpet-style playing footy.
And lastly, collecting the accreditation at the Vox centre was as easy as one, two, three…
As a parting shot though, one expects that the football public – who has a close affinity and a romantic relationship with the biggest youth spectacle on the continent – to flock in their numbers and this is where one foresee a headache for parking for patrons – perhaps liaising with the Excelsior Secondary School opposite the complex to accommodate patrons with safe and secure parking could potentially curb this challenge.
I remember a couple of years ago the school was used for public parking and it worked well as there is an entrance gate situated opposite the school – it could be a win-win for both parties as it’s a way for the school to generate some income as well.
Also, it won’t be a nuisance for locals living around the vicinity of the Erica Park Complex. But all in all, well done, and as the old adage goes… all’s well that ends well.
