Edgar Legoale Foundation
Parys – The Edgar Legoale Foundation has kicked off excitement for its seventh annual festive soccer showdown, set to light up Mandela Sports Ground in Tumahole, Parys, Free State, from 13 to 21 December 2025. With a total prize pool of R100,000, the tournament promises thrilling kasi-style football while shining a spotlight on youth development and the urgent fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Foundation manager Nthabiseng Molejane and chairman Edgar Legoale shared their passion for the event, highlighting how it goes beyond the pitch to scout talent, equip local teams, and spark community campaigns to end GBV. As South Africa grapples with alarming GBV rates – where over 36% of women have faced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime – this initiative aims to empower players and fans to stand against abuse and build safer neighbourhoods.
Building on past successes, the 2025 edition expects over 10,000 attendees and will be livestreamed on Central News platforms. Scouts from professional clubs will hunt for rising stars, while a new youth programme hands out kits and gear to under-resourced teams. With 32 squads competing, the event is free to join, but winners must launch a GBV awareness drive in their area – turning sport into real social change.
Foundation’s Mission and Past Tournaments
The Edgar Legoale Foundation, based in Tumahole, Parys, has made waves since its start by using soccer to uplift young people and tackle social woes.  Led by chairman Edgar Legoale, it runs events like the festive and Easter tournaments to spot talent and foster community bonds.  Past editions, such as the 2024 festive tournament, drew big crowds with R150,000 top prizes and themes against GBV, featuring under-13, under-17, masters, and women’s games. 
In 2023, the event celebrated five years with pure kasi vibes, pulling in fans for matches at the same ground.  The Easter 2025 tournament kept the momentum, with live coverage showing fierce play and community spirit.  These gatherings have become staples, offering free spots for vendors and scouts from pro teams to discover gems.  Legoale reflected on the growth: “This event started as a way to showcase raw kasi talent and give young lads a shot at the big leagues. But it’s grown into so much more – a rallying cry against the injustices that plague our society.”
The foundation also runs school soccer programmes, like the Tumahole High Schools Tournament, to build skills early.  Their work ties into bigger goals, like writing books on local history to inspire youth. 
Focus on Youth Empowerment and Talent Scouting
A big draw is the chance for players to shine before scouts from top clubs, a feature from past years that has launched careers.  The new Soccer Youth Development Programme steps it up by giving kits, balls, and gear to needy teams, helping level the field for grassroots stars.  Molejane said: “We’re proud to spotlight our ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent from grassroots levels.”
With 32 teams battling for R80,000 first prize, R15,000 second, and R5,000 third, the stakes are high.  Entries need profiles, photos, and motivations sent in, keeping it open but organised.  This setup not only hones skills but fights poverty by creating paths out through sport.
Tackling Gender-Based Violence Through Sport
Under the theme “Kick GBV Out of Kasi,” the tournament turns games into talks on ending abuse.  Every team joins awareness efforts, and winners must run a campaign in their hood – spreading prevention tips and support for victims. 
Legoale stressed: “In a country where stats show over a third of women facing violence, and with rising cases right here in the Free State, we can’t just sit back.”
South Africa’s GBV crisis is dire: over 36% of women have faced physical or sexual violence, with 33.1% reporting lifetime physical abuse.   Between April 2022 and March 2023, 53,498 sexual offences hit the books, mostly rape.  In Free State, cases have climbed steadily, mirroring national trends where 957 women were killed and over 14,000 assaulted badly from July to September 2024.  The event aims to challenge norms and build safer spots for women and girls.
Sponsorship Opportunities and Community Involvement
The foundation calls on businesses to sponsor, offering Bronze to Platinum packages with perks like branding, activations, and media exposure. With 10,000+ fans and livestreams on Central News, it is a prime spot for visibility. Legoale urged: “Join us, and let’s co-create something special. This isn’t just sponsorship; it’s a partnership that adds real value to your business while making a tangible difference.”
Media, scouts, vendors, and public are welcome, with free stalls for locals and cheap ones for big firms. Partners like Metsimaholo FM, Unplayable, and Blaqsnaps Media boost the reach. Extra fun like workshops will drop soon.
Looking Ahead to a Transformative Event
As the festive season nears, the tournament stands as a beacon for change in Parys. Legoale wrapped up: “To our communities in Tumahole and beyond: Come out in numbers, support your teams, and let’s make this festive season one of unity and action.” With free entry for teams and a focus on real impact, it promises to empower youth and kick GBV to the curb.
For details, reach DJ Pots at 078 466 2089 or Blessing Maphisa at 076 649 1472. Interviews via Nthabiseng Molejane at 082 287 2290. This event could spark lasting shifts in Free State communities.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition of Central News | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Central-News-Issue-115-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube