SKF South Africa collaborated with Authorised Distributors – City Bearings and Seals, Bearing Services Africa, B2K (formally Bearings 2000) and Bolt & Engineering Distributors (Group) – to proudly host the local ‘Meet the World with SKF’ Football Tournament on 12 April 2025.
The one-day soccer extravaganza featured four all-girl football teams representing Springs Technical High School (host), Buckingham, HS Elsburg and Tersia King Learning Academy, going head-to-head, demonstrating their football skills. The stakes were high as the winning team would earn a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent SKF South Africa at the world’s largest international youth football tournament, the prestigious Gothia Cup.
This highly acclaimed annual soccer festival, which takes place in Göteborg, Sweden, in July, welcomes 40,000 players from 80 countries who compete in 4,500 games on 110 soccer fields. The Gothia Cup has, since its inception in 1975, transformed from 275 to around 1,700 teams and has attracted close to one million visitors from 148 countries to date.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the Gothia Cup fosters connections and cultural exchange through football, transcending race, religion and culture barriers, promoting teamwork, responsibility, equality and youth engagement on a global scale. This inspired SKF, as the primary sponsor of the Gothia Cup, to establish the dynamic pre-tournaments aptly named ‘Meet the World with SKF’ in some of its subsidiary countries. These local events reflect the diversity, camaraderie and values inherent in the Gothia Cup tournament.
Springs Technical High School’s two soccer fields were transformed into a rich, colourful tapestry as the U-14 teams took to the pitch, each proudly representing the SKF Authorised Distributors: HS Elsburg were donned in striking green, courtesy of City Bearings and Seals, while Buckingham, backed by Bearing Services Africa, showcased in radiant red. Tersia King Learning Academy shone in dynamic blue, thanks to their partnership with B2K, and Springs Technical High School dazzled in white, sponsored by Bolt & Engineering Distributors (Group).
Addressing the enthusiastic spectators, Managing Director of SKF South Africa, Silas Santana said: “I’m thrilled to be here today, representing the vibrant spirit of Brazil and my enduring love for soccer. What an incredible inspiration it is to witness all of you – SKF employees, distributors, educators, players, and supporters, all coming together as a unified team to make this day a resounding success! This collaborative effort is a powerful testament to what can be accomplished when we join forces and work towards a common goal. Together, we are showing that with passion, dedication, and teamwork, we can turn our dreams into reality!”
The SKF Authorised Distributors felt a unanimous sense of pride in being part of such an exceptional event that nurtures talent and promotes future stars. “Citi Bearings and Seals feels privileged to support an initiative that in return offers an opportunity of a lifetime to a team of young girls to travel to Europe representing South Africa,” commented Director, Clinton Good. Managing Director of B2K, Ross Trevelyan, stated their belief in the transformative power of sport to inspire, unite, and create opportunities for young people to motivate them to get involved with the Soccer Tournament. “This tournament aligns perfectly with our values – encouraging teamwork, fair play, and personal growth, all while giving our youth the chance to experience something truly special.” Vanesse Schultz, Sales Director of Bearing Services, said that participating in such a remarkable event was truly an honour. “The tournament showcased the impressive skills of the young players while reinforcing the values of teamwork. What a memorable experience for everyone involved!”
The competition was fierce as the players, aged between 11 and 14, took to the field bringing their A-game. Each athlete showcased her remarkable skills and determination; their spirited performances ignited waves of cheers from the passionate learners from the different schools who added to the vibrant atmosphere, singing war cries and dancing with infectious enthusiasm to support their players. With every pass, tackle, and goal, the excitement grew, underscoring the unity and spirit that surrounded this unforgettable event.
In the opening round of matches, Springs Technical High School and Tersia King Learning Academy triumphed over HS Elsburg and Buckingham, respectively. After two intense rounds of competition, Springs Technical High School and Tersia King Learning Academy advanced to the finals, setting the stage for an exhilarating showdown. The tension was palpable as the match ended in a nail-biting 0-0 draw, necessitating a penalty shootout. Spectators were on the edge of their seats as players from both teams skilfully found the back of the net, keeping the scores level. Ultimately, it was Springs Technical High School that sealed the victory with a decisive final goal.
Mike Giltrow, Director of Bolt & Engineering Distributors (Group), sponsor of the victorious team, shared his thoughts on the remarkable event. “We are always on the lookout for meaningful opportunities where we can make a real difference in the lives of the youth. Supporting the SKF Meet the World Tournament was exactly that kind of opportunity – a chance to empower, uplift, and inspire the next generation through sport. We were incredibly humbled and proud to be part of this initiative, to stand behind a winning team, and to play a small role in helping make dreams come true.”
During the prize-giving ceremony, each Distributors presented medals, trophies, and certificates to the players of their respective teams. The girls from Springs Technical High School proudly accepted their gold medals, silver was bestowed upon the runners-up – Tersia King Learning Academy, with bronze medals awarded to the Buckingham squad for securing third place and HS Elsburg received certificates.
True sportsmanship was on full display as the players from the other three teams congratulated the winners. The camaraderie among the athletes transcended the competitive spirit of the tournament, illustrating a profound respect for one another’s efforts and determination. This moment of unity not only highlighted their shared passion for the game but also served as a powerful reminder that, at the heart of sports, is the ability to uplift and support each other, regardless of the final outcome. The genuine goodwill exchanged between the teams showcased the very essence of the tournament, celebrating not just victory but also the bonds forged through shared experiences on the pitch.
Wrapping up this remarkable day, Silas stated: “Today’s event stands as a meaningful legacy, a soccer celebration that promotes the values of togetherness and unity. We are proud to provide these talented players with an opportunity to shine, showcasing their skills and love for the game. Let’s continue to support each other and inspire the next generation of athletes. Together, we are not just making memories; we are building a brighter future for all involved. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary day! Please join me in wishing the Springs Technical High School team the best of luck at the Gothia Cup in July!”
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