SPIRIT INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY (SIFA) CELEBRATES AN EPIC QUARTER
Dear readers,
It’s been a truly remarkable quarter of 2025, and we are thrilled to share some of the highlights with you. We hope you enjoy the read as much as we enjoy playing the beautiful game.
Victory for SIFA on Freedom Day
The energy, excitement, and nerves were tangible as SIFA (Spirit International Football Academy) hosted the first-ever SIFA Cup on Saturday, 26 April, at their home base at the Cape Academy of Maths, Science, and Technology (CAMST) in Constantia. The tournament showcased emerging talent from across the region, with SIFA lifting the trophy after a memorable and hard-fought 3-1 victory over JJ Sporting in the final.
Throughout the day, friends, family, and fans were treated to entertaining matches, tactical displays, and outstanding performances. After a competitive group stage and semi-finals, SIFA proved their mettle to clinch the inaugural honours, adding a new chapter to SIFA’s story of excellence and commitment to youth development.
Miguel Adams of SIFA was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding performances, while Jucrae Jacobs (SIFA) took home the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award. Rising star, Nqobile Mofokeng (SIFA), was celebrated as the Top Goal Scorer of the day.
A special mention also goes to Bonnievale FC’s No. 10, Solathiso ‘Super’ Ngubo, who showcased brilliant skill and was the second-highest goal scorer of the tournament.
Reflecting on the event's significance, Ian Kilbride, founder of the Spirit Foundation, shared: “The SIFA Cup is not just about results; it’s about dreams, development, and creating pathways for young players to reach their potential. I am deeply proud of every participant today – they represent the spirit of football and the future of our communities.”
Dr Armand Bam, director of football at SIFA, praised the standard of play and the spirit of competition: “Today wasn’t only about winning; it was about learning, showcasing resilience, and growing as players and people. The SIFA Cup is another step towards our mission of developing football excellence both on and off the field.”
“Seeing the tactical maturity, hunger, and character from such young players was inspiring,” said Head of Talent Development, Noel Cousins, as he lauded the local talent on display. Miguel, Jucrae, Nqobile, and Solathiso showed why investing in grassroots football is crucial. The future looks incredibly bright for SIFA and every team that participated in the tournament.”
The SIFA Cup 2025 will be remembered for the goals and trophies and for everyone’s camaraderie, growth, and unforgettable memories.
Youth development football legend joins SIFA
In the spirit of ‘nothing but the best is good enough’, the Spirit International Football Academy (SIFA) (SIFA is part of the Spirit Foundation) has recruited Cape Town football coach, great Harper 'Grompies' Mapila. As a seasoned youth coach and teacher by profession, Grompies has decades of experience in spotting raw talent. Not only does this identification of the-uncut-diamond-in-the-rough set him apart, but he can shape and polish players' skills into formidable footballers.
"Adding a coach of Harper's calibre to SIFA testifies to how serious we are about recruiting the best for our players," said Dr Armand Bam, Director of Football at SIFA. "Footballers are spoilt for choice when it comes to training academies in Cape Town, so we had to set ourselves apart. By recruiting the likes of Ian Taylor and Harper [Mapila] we are sending a positive message that we intend to give our players the very best development and technical coaches."
Grompies’ journey in football began as a kid while growing up in the Western Cape, specifically in Langa. Inspired by his father, who was a soccer and cricket player, he developed a deep love for the beautiful game.
"I started football at a very young age, playing street games. My father would take me to big matches, and that’s where the love grew,” he reflects fondly. "My early experiences as a captain in school, where it was my job to plan the training sessions and select the teams, unknowingly laid the foundation for my coaching career."
In 1998, Grompies’ natural coaching ability was noticed when he was selected as a talent scout for the top Cape Town club, Seven Stars. The merger of Seven Stars with Cape Town Spurs to form Ajax Cape Town allowed him to transition into youth coaching. He quickly established himself as a critical figure in developing players for Ajax Cape Town, and his work, dedication, and caring nature have had a ripple effect across South African football.
“Seeing them progress to the first team or play in leagues across the world is incredibly fulfilling. Players like Luke Le Roux, who now plays in Scandinavia, and Jaden Adams, who trained at Ajax Cape Town, are just a few of the guys that have developed into professional players with me as their coach."
Despite the many challenges he faced, such as transport issues for players from townships and informal settlements, Grompies never wavered in his commitment as a development coach. “Youth development is key to improving South African football. If you start with a good foundation, players can go all the way, and the country benefits,” he said.
Known for his preference for working with raw, talented young players, Grompies attributes this passion to his teaching profession. “I’ve always worked with kids, and I prefer coaching the young ones. They respond better and are more receptive to learning. My approach has always been about building more than just football skills. It’s about developing responsible citizens.”
Joining SIFA marks a new chapter for Grompies: “It’s a new challenge, but an exciting one. SIFA offers players opportunities academically and in sports, giving them options for their future.
A simple yet profound message he adds to all aspiring young footballers: “Be patient.”
Until next quarter, keep loving the beautiful game!
