Masianokeng Sports Academy celebrates rising stars at Annual Awards ceremony
NTHAKO MAJORO
MASERU – The Masianokeng Sports Academy honored 16 talented footballers at its second annual awards ceremony last Saturday, recognizing outstanding performances from the 2024/25 season. The event, held at Masianokeng High School, celebrated both male and female players across multiple categories.
The day’s biggest winner was Motlatsi Mphahama, who claimed the Boys’ Midfielder of the Season and the prestigious Player of the Season awards. Meanwhile, Kearabetsoe Pitikoe secured the Girls’ Player of the Season title and shared the Golden Boot Award with Nkosinathi Ketsekile, as both netted four goals each.
Malefetsane Ntlopo dominated the boys’ category with seven goals, earning him the Golden Boot Award.
In goalkeeping, Limphi Lebitsa (boys) and Relebohile Lethibelane (girls) were named Goalkeepers of the Season, while Karabo Mothebe took home the Young Goalkeeper of the Season award.
Other notable winners included:
Thapelo Moleli and Tshepiso Phakisi – Most Improved Players (boys/girls)
‘Mateboho Moerane and Motlatsi Mashaoa – Best Defenders of the Season (girls/boys)
Lesai Matjelo and Thato Sekoai – Players’ Player of the Season (boys/girls)
Additionally, long-serving players received medals, and certificates were awarded to Puseletso Motlatsi, Realeboha Molefe, Bolae Ramohale, Tšoanelo Mpopo, Malefetsane Mpopo, Mahooana Palinyane, and others.
Tlokotsi Ndlovu, the academy’s founder and coach, acknowledged the challenges of organizing the event but emphasized his commitment to growth.
“Hosting this ceremony was never easy, but when I set my mind to something, I give it my all,” he said.
“With continued collaboration, we can achieve even more for Masianokeng Sports Academy.”
Ndlovu also stressed the importance of discipline, thanking sponsors for their support: “The presence of these companies today shows our potential for expansion – but success depends on disciplined players.”
Launched in 2020 after Ndlovu’s forced retirement from competitive football due to injury, the academy has now completed five years. Its teams compete in the DIFA-Maseru Second League (girls) and C-Division (boys), both finishing fifth in their leagues this season.
Last year’s inaugural awards honored 14 players, marking steady progress for the academy. With growing recognition and community backing, Masianokeng Sports Academy continues to nurture the next generation of football stars.
