Big names such as Bidvest Wits defender Sifiso Hlanti, Thanda Royal Zulu coach Roger Sikhakhane and former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siyabonga Nkosi are all part of the festival, which is sponsored by Only Mabala and Sports and Recreation KwaZulu-Natal, and commences on the 24th of December at Mzimela Playground, Kwa Maqanda and will continue on Christmas Day before wrapping up the following day.
As is the norm during the December holidays players often spearhead community tournaments and Hlanti, Sikhakhane, Nkosi as well as Phumelele Bhengu and Thanduyise Khuboni have teamed up with Isibaya actor Nhlanhla Mdlalose to kickstart the initiative.
The winner will pocket R13000, the floating trophy, gold medals and soccer kit. Runners-up will walk away with R7000, silver medals and soccer kit and the team that finish third will walk away with R3000 and soccer kit.
Mdlalose says is excited to be involved in such a tournament and says the main goal is to give to his community and offer young talents the opportunity to be scouted.
"This is the first annual tournament and it is all about giving back to the community because we have noticed that Ladysmith has an abundance of talent but people hardly come to these areas because it’s not popular," Mdlalose, who portrays Bongani on Isibaya, tells snl24.com/kickoff.
"If I can name few players coming from this region are Japhet Zwane [former Bafana Bafana winger and now AmaZulu team manager], Thamsanqa Gabuza from Orlando Pirates came from here, so now I’m trying to give back by scouting talented players.
"Footballers, as much I’m an actor, I still feel there’s a gap when it comes to youngsters that are playing football. So I decided to host the tournament as in the past it used to be a prayer."