Mhleli Foundation’s schools tournament returns
The concept of “Sports for Education” is poised to invigorate the Kwa Ngcedomhlophe Sports Ground on Thursday and Friday, as the Mhleli Foundation prepares to host its highly anticipated football and netball tournament in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Mhleli Foundation football and netball tournament begins at a regional level, featuring 55 schools competing in preliminary rounds. Eventually, those numbers are lowered to the four semifinalists, who will play for the championship title on Thursday and Friday.
Founded in 2022, the Mhleli Foundation has effectively utilised the pitch and courts to forge pathways leading to educational opportunities. Its impact is significant and apparent in the Mandeni and Gingidlovu Circuits, where it has fostered hope and prosperity by promoting educational progression and the development of sports in the regions.
Corporate Giants Join the Cause
The foundation’s work has attracted strong support from corporate entities and local government. Among its partners are the KZN Department of Education, the Department of Sports, Arts and Recreation, along with Digital Council Africa, the Mandeni Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Economic Regulatory Authority (KZNERA), and Destinoh Lubes. Further support has been added from SAPPI and Spar.
A Mhleli Foundation spokesperson told SuperSport Schools Plus that the organisation appreciates the support and trust that those partners have placed in the organisation.
“Their involvement underscores the tournament’s evolution from a local sporting event into a major socio-economic catalyst, all unified under the ‘Victory for Knowledge’ banner, where winning teams secure essential educational resources for their entire school,” Thabile Malebo said.
Thursday, 23 April: The Primary Schools Powerhouse
The opening day of competition is dedicated to primary schools, with a mix of longstanding competitors and eager newcomers in action. Macambini Primary, which is making its third consecutive appearance and is vying for a place in the final of both the netball and football tournaments, will be in the spotlight.
A poignant narrative surrounds Sundumbili Primary, which has reached the semifinals for the first time. The school is the Alma Mater of five of the Mhleli Foundation’s board members: Thabile Malebo, Thulani Sithole, Collin Nkosi, Phumlani Nhlabathi, and Eric Mdletshe. Their return to support their former school enriches the heritage of the day’s events.
In the football division, an anticipated “Battle of the Best” is on the horizon as Lower Tugela, champions in 2024 and the runner-up in 2025, seeks to reclaim the title.
Primary Schools Fixtures (Thursday, 23 April)
Netball: Sakhesethu vs Mandeni
Vutha vs Macambini
Football: Lower Tugela vs Thekelimfundo
Sundumbili vs Macambini
High Schools Friday, 24 April- Heritage and Rivalry
High schools will be in action on Friday, leading to an increase in the intensity of the competition.
Mpoqabulungu (Mpoqa) makes a bold statement by appearing in both the football and netball semifinals. It’s their second year in succession in the final four of the netball competition. Mgandeni and Mbuyiselo also return for a second year, aiming to capitalise on the experience they gained in 2025.
High Schools Fixtures Friday, 24 April
Netball: Ndodakusuka vs Mbuyiselo
Mpoqabulungu vs KW Mathaba
Soccer: Mgandeni vs KW Mathaba
Mpoqabulungu vs Lambothi
A Grand Finale: Breaking Barriers
The Mhleli Foundation has also organised an exhibition match between the Mandeni Celtics and AmaZulu FC. Its goal is to inspire young local athletes, demonstrating to them that talent, combined with the discipline instilled through the ‘Sports for Education’ philosophy, can overcome obstacles and pave the way to professional success.
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