The Hollywood Foundation continues to offer a lifeline to developing soccer teams by contributed soccer kits at some of its branches across the country.
Among the clubs to receive a boost are KwaMashu All Stars, which was established in 2003, and Villa United, founded in 2022.
KwaMashu All Stars chairperson, Nhlakanipho Cele, said at least 120 players benefit from the club, which operates in a community grappling with crime, unemployment and social ills such as drug and substance abuse.
“The donation will strengthen the club’s sustainability by providing training gear and player development resources, while enabling us to expand our youth development and community programmes,” said Cele.
The club boasts more than five teams, including a senior side that competes in the eThekwini Regional League, as well as a feeder team. Its junior structure includes Under-13, Under-15 and Under-18 teams.
“The club was started to develop talent and combat social ills, including teenage pregnancy, unemployment and substance abuse,” said Cele.
Over the years, the club has established a reputation for nurturing talent and counts Thabo Cele, who went on to play for Kaizer Chiefs, and Thalente Mbatha, currently contracted to Orlando Pirates, among its former players.
“The club creates pathways to the SAB League, ABC League and the Motsepe League,” said Cele.
Despite its reputation for developing players, KwaMashu All Stars has faced financial challenges and has often relied on contributions from Thabo and Nhlakanipho Cele, as well as support from generous volunteers who contribute to the club.
Wentworth-based Villa United also expressed its gratitude for the contribution.
Club manager Nico Jali welcomed the support, saying it would ease the burden of having to play with only one kit.
“The donation will help the players look presentable. Currently, we only have one kit and minimal playing equipment. We are so grateful that Hollywood has helped us,” said Jali.
The donation will also go a long way towards challenging the negative perceptions often associated with the suburb, which continues to face a range of social challenges.
What began as a group playing indoor soccer before 2022 has since transformed into a fully-fledged club.
Like many clubs from underserved communities, Villa United faces the challenge of operating on a shoestring budget.
“We often have to conduct our own fundraising because, when games are underway, we travel extensively across the greater Durban area. We play in Hillcrest, Newlands and Inanda,” said Jali.
The club now hopes to expand its operations and establish a stronger junior structure across various age groups.
