The Kimberley Prospector

The Shaine Griqua Advice and Development Centre launched the Ben Smith Soccer Tournament in Colville on June 16.

THE SHAINE Griqua Advice and Development Centre launched the Ben Smith Soccer Tournament in Colville on June 16 in honour of living soccer legend, Ben Smith.

Shaine Griqua, representing the centre, said Smith was regarded as the godfather of the soccer fraternity in Kimberley and surrounding areas.

“Smith established the Motherwells Football Club with his family over 50 years ago and is still successfully running it. He is a trendsetter in developing the sport and moulding young soccer stars,” said Griqua.

He added that Smith had been instrumental in bringing soccer to the community and developing young players.

“Smith is 73 years of age and has been a beacon of hope for many youngsters over the decades. He nurtures aspiring league players and provides youngsters, children and the elderly opportunities to play weekly soccer games. He encourages communities to lead healthy lifestyles and attend gym sessions. We will eternally appreciate his investments, contribution and sacrifices he made over almost five decades to ensure that football is prioritised in our communities.”

Griqua stated that they aimed to involve more father figures in spearheading campaigns on anti-school bullying programmes and supporting youths to play soccer and other forms of sport.

“This will assist in decreasing school bullying, substance abuse, gender-based violence and other social ills. The tournament also seeks to annually celebrate men and encourage role models to champion anti-GBVF programmes and fight all forms of abuse. More men are needed to raise collective voices and protect women children and youth as well as other men who are vulnerable to abuse.”

Griqua added that this initiative would engage various stakeholders to ensure support structures were in place to assist victims of abuse and their families.

“We will also host future tournaments to celebrate our fallen heroes including Jonty White, Lyle Johnson, Andy Hendricks, Clement Duiker and many others,” Griqua added.

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