SASKO Shap Shooters – Finally, the game is on again!
November 2021
After 20 pandemic months, South African youth have missed out on so many opportunities to get together for the games and sports that promote active living, as well as build camaraderie and community spirit. So SASKO was delighted to announce that Shap Shooters, their new 4-a-side soccer campaign, will kick off this November with two tournaments.
112 high school players from 16 school teams came together at Maponya Mall in Soweto on Saturday, 6 November to compete in the first of two Shap Shooters tournaments scheduled for 2021. With support from local families and businesses, the action-packed Shap Shooters tournament gave high school learners a much-needed chance to reconnect with South Africa’s most unifying game and experience all the benefits of youth development through sports.
This years’ winning Johannesburg school, Sebetsa-O-Thole-Moputsu High School, was awarded a R5000 cash prize, a tournament trophy, brand new soccer kit and a custom team logo. The first, second and third place team players all received medals and were celebrated as soccer stars in their community. Jackie Pillay, SASKO’s Marketing Manager said, “Play and sport is such an important part of how children and youth learn and grow. Of course, soccer is more than just a sport in South Africa; it’s a way of bringing communities together.”
Families, schools and local businesses were part of the exciting, high-energy event, and continue to participate in an ongoing SASKO Shap Shooters program. Schools, Spaza shops and of course the local community at large have been included in the campaign with prizes and give-aways as part of the program.
Best of all, South African high school learners were able to put their soccer talents to the test and enjoy a fun, active day playing their best game. Pillay concludes, “At SASKO, we’re keenly aware of how life has changed due to COVID-19, and reigniting the tournaments is an important way to enhance community care during a tough time, as well as fuel the nation and ensure that our kids can safely learn, play and develop.”