Zinhle Masilela and Nodicah Fundama
Emalahleni – The dusty fields of Ekhoneni Pub in Ackerville transformed into a carnival of sport, music and memories on 20 September 2025 when the Sports Wrap Foundation hosted its Soccer and Netball Fun Day.
The event was crafted for Generation X — the 80s babies now juggling careers, children and endless debit orders. Yet in true township spirit, the invitation stretched beyond age. Anyone with sneakers, energy or simply a love for sport and community found their place on the field.
“Gen X needed a space to just unwind and destress. Life is heavy – between work, debit orders, and raising families. I wanted people to remember the days when your only worry was whether you were playing midfield or scoring goals,” said Sports Wrap Foundation founder Trevor Dube.
From the first whistle, soccer sides like Scotch Khoza FC, VPS FC, Masemanzi FC, Baab Milano FC, Boundry FC and home favourites Ekhoneni FC clashed in tackles and laughter, their banter as sharp as their boots.
On the Netball courts, Malahleni Vixens, Team Stevo & Thabo, Future Stone and Ekhoneni Netball Club matched the energy with lightning passes and fierce determination.
The air buzzed more like a festival than a tournament. DJs Khelvo Kev, Medda, Ngcuka, Tyson and Bhudah kept the beats alive, turning every pause in play into a mini dance-off. The aroma of pub lunches drifted across the grounds, blending with cheers from uncles and aunties who had quickly turned themselves into sideline coaches for the day.
For players like Nomvula Khumalo, the day was pure therapy. Drenched in sweat after a spirited netball game, she said: “We’ve been carrying so much bills, family [and] work stress. Today I felt like I was back in high school, running on the court with nothing on my mind except scoring a goal. It reminded me of who I was before life got so serious.”
By sundown, tired but happy players sprawled under umbrellas, sipping cold drinks and swapping stories about their glory days. The scoreboard was forgotten, the real victory laid in reconnection.
And Dube, watching it all, knew it was only the beginning. “Seeing everyone this happy, that’s what [this event] is about. Gen X deserves moments like these.”
