The Bloemfontein Local Football Association (LFA) ladies division sub-Committee hosted a two-day tributary football tournament at Clive Solomon Stadium in Bloemfontein from 8 to 9 August 2026 to celebrate four female football pioneers for Women’s Month.
Under the theme Honouring a Decade of Women in Football these esteemed football figures were honoured for their outstanding contribution to the development, management and growth of football in the region for 10 years or more.
Kedilate Senago-Matong of Knowledge Stars FC, Mmakopano Anah Mokheti of Black Diamonds FC, Royal Palace FC’s Maphoka Sarah Maisi (Royal Palace FC) as well as Matshediso Ramafikeng from The Echo FC were duly recognised, with sub-committee chairperson, Heila Abraham, lauding the quartet as leaders that played a vital role in providing aspiring footballers with opportunities while building the sport in local communities.
“Their journeys represent commitment, sacrifice, resilience, leadership and love for the beautiful game,” Abraham said.
She added that such tournaments strengthen relationships within the fraternity, provide competitive experience, and increase the visibility of women’s football across the Free State.
“We are particularly proud that the tournament provided an environment where teams could compete while sharing experiences, building relationships and celebrating the women, who have contributed significantly to the growth of the game,” Abraham stated.
Ladies Division coordinator, Hendrick Minnie, echoed Abraham’s sentiments further highlighting that the ongoing development of the sport requires collective effort, commitment, and strong partnerships.
“This tournament demonstrated what can be achieved when the football community comes together with a common purpose. We look forward to building on the success of this tournament and creating more opportunities for women and girls to participate, compete and grow through football,” he said.
Minnie added that these types of initiatives aim to celebrate contributors while they are still alive.
“Women in football deserve to be recognised, celebrated and supported, not only for what they have achieved, but also for the doors they continue to open for the next generation,” Minnie continued.
On the field, City Ladies were crowned tournament champions after defeating runners-up Queen Ladies FC in the final match.
City Ladies head coach, Tshidiso Diboka, welcomed the victory and praised the initiative for creating vital opportunities for female athletes.
“For the female football fraternity, having a tournament like this is very important. It creates opportunities for women and girls to showcase their talent, gain experience, build confidence and inspire the next generation of female footballers.
“I hope this tournament continues to grow and gives women’s football the recognition and platform it deserves,” said Diboka.
