In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Kaizer Chiefs, the South African football club, recently played host to Alex Royal Tigers at the KC Village for a special coaching clinic. This event, part of the Toyota Hearts on Sleeve Initiative, marks a significant chapter in their ongoing efforts to make a positive impact on their community.
Alex Royal Tigers, a soccer club founded by Thembinkosi ‘Tiger’ Matholengwe, carries a deeply noble mission at its core. It is dedicated to rescuing young boys and girls from the harsh realities of the streets, providing them a lifeline away from the social challenges that afflict the Alexandra Township.
Tiger’s vision stretches far beyond the soccer field. He aspires to shape not just better footballers but better men within the Alex community. To achieve this, he emphasizes the importance of coaching, mentorship, and guidance to transform young boys into responsible, confident, and respectful individuals.
In the words of Thembinkosi ‘Tiger’ Matholengwe himself, “My goal is to develop better men and professional footballers within the Alex community. Football goes beyond the field; it shapes individuals’ character and values. I believe that by providing coaching, mentorship, and guidance, I can help these young boys not only become skilled players but also grow into responsible, confident, and respectful individuals.”
Education is a cornerstone of Alex Royal Tigers’ mission. They place a strong emphasis on encouraging their youth to take their schoolwork seriously. The club organizes study sessions, offers homework assistance, and fosters an environment for collective learning. Their commitment to education is exemplified by the three boys they have sent to study at Boston City College, along with their support for others pursuing education at prestigious institutions such as Wits and UJ.
For Kaizer Chiefs, this initiative is a reflection of their dedication to giving back to their community. Jessica Motaung, Kaizer Chiefs’ Marketing and Commercial Director, expressed the significance of programs like Hearts on Sleeve. “The Heart on Sleeve initiative that we do with Toyota South Africa (TSAM) is very important because it’s about us connecting with our communities. We feel it’s our responsibility to come in as a Club and make a difference, and also support the leaders and the people who are contributing toward uplifting our communities and making their lives better,” emphasized Jessica.
The partnership with Toyota South Africa (TSAM) has been pivotal in inspiring the young players at Alex Royal Tigers. Jessica Motaung conveyed her gratitude toward TSAM for their collaboration in this initiative. She expressed hope that the players from Alex Royal Tigers would one day showcase their talent professionally, an aspiration that Kaizer Chiefs fully supports.
In a gesture of support, TSAM provided Alex Royal Tigers with kits, balls, and equipment for all their teams. Despite facing challenges, the dreams and aspirations of Alex Royal Tigers remain high. The hope persists that one day, a product of this remarkable club will have the honor of stepping onto the FNB Stadium field, donning the revered Amakhosi jersey.
