North West Gambling Board Hosts Inaugural Youth Soccer Tournament in Mahikeng
The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) hosted its inaugural Provincial Youth Soccer Tournament Final at Montshioa Stadium in Mahikeng to raise awareness about the harms of underage gambling.
Held under the campaign themes “Don’t Gamble Your Future Away” and “Gamble Responsibly,” the tournament combined competitive school football with interactive educational exhibits about gambling risks and available support services.
Through the campaign learners were encouraged to prioritise their education, protect their mental well-being, and safeguard their future opportunities. The initiative reinforced the message that gambling should never be regarded as a solution to financial challenges.
The event brought together government officials, regulatory representatives, and sports figures from across South Africa to inspire school-aged learners. Among them was Marks Maponyane, a South African soccer legend and member of the Gallery of Legends, who encouraged the student-athletes to embrace discipline, confidence, and personal growth both on and off the field.
NWGB Acting CEO Boitumelo Qalinge highlighted the initiative’s mission to use sport to help protect young people from underage and illegal gambling. “Our message is clear: don’t gamble your future away. Choose discipline, teamwork, and a responsible lifestyle.”
MEC Bitsa Lenkopane of DEDECT, accompanied by HOD Relebogile Mafokane, presented trophies, medals, and prize-money cheques to the winning matric teams.
The tournament winners:
1st place: Mofatlhosi Secondary School of Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, R25,000 and gold medals
2nd place: Meriti Secondary School of Bojanala District Municipality, R15,000 and silver medals
3rd place: Motsemme Secondary School of Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, R10,000 and bronze medals
4th place: Tau Rapulana Secondary School of Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, R10,000 and bronze medals
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The NWGB noted that the cash prizes awarded to the schools are intended to support local educational needs and improve learning environments.
The tournament was funded through the Socio-Economic Development (SED) contributions from licensed gambling operators, alongside sponsorships from corporate and gaming entities, including ABSA, SunBet, and Rio Casino.
Industry partners, including the National Gambling Board (NGB), the African Lotteries & Gaming Association (ALGA), represented by its CEO Mr. Musa Mngani, and the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), joined the NWGB in the initiative. Together, they emphasized that protecting young people requires public education and community outreach. They also highlighted how sport can foster talent while reinforcing the message that gambling is never a solution to financial challenges.
