SPORT AND UNITY AT MATHEWS MPETE CUP!
The countdown to one of Ga-Rankuwa’s biggest youth sporting spectacles has officially begun as the sixth edition of the Mathews Mpete & Hollywoodbets Cup prepares to take centre stage from 13 to 16 June 2026 at the Ga-Rankuwa View Clinic Grounds.
Over the years, the tournament has evolved from a small community initiative into a vibrant Youth Month celebration that continues to unite sport, community development and local economic empowerment under one platform.
Organised by the Mathews Mpete Foundation, the annual event is expected to once again draw hundreds of young athletes, families, supporters and community stakeholders from across Tshwane and surrounding areas.
This year’s programme will feature football competitions for Under-15 and Under-19 boys, ladies open football, masters football, netball tournaments for Under-15, Under-19 and invitational teams, as well as aerobics activities, a 5km fun run and a 30km cycling challenge.
Founder of the initiative, Mathews Mpete, said the tournament continues to focus on youth empowerment through sport while creating a safe and positive environment for young people during the June school holidays.
“We are using sport as a tool to inspire, unite and uplift our communities. The goal is to give young people a platform to showcase their abilities while encouraging discipline, healthy living and social cohesion,” said Mpete.
Beyond the sporting action, the tournament has also become an important platform for local economic participation. Small businesses, street vendors and emerging entrepreneurs will once again be allowed to trade freely at the venue without paying for stalls, giving them an opportunity to market their products and generate income during the four-day event.
The tournament’s organisers have also maintained their commitment to accessibility by ensuring that participating football teams and players are not charged entry fees. Only netball teams will pay affiliation fees, which will assist in securing qualified umpires for the competition.
Community leaders have previously praised the tournament for helping keep young people actively involved in constructive activities while promoting unity and reducing exposure to social challenges affecting many townships. Over the years, the event has earned a reputation for producing highly competitive football and netball encounters while strengthening community ties through sport and recreation.
This year’s edition receives support from partners including Hollywoodbets, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Net Nine Nine, Motsepe Funeral Home, Mokoepa Security, Red-Neo Security and the Ga-Rankuwa Local Football Association. Organisers believe the partnerships will further enhance the tournament experience and expand its impact within the community.
With excitement already building ahead of kick-off, residents and sports enthusiasts are anticipating another memorable showcase of township talent, youth development and community pride during the Youth Month celebrations in Ga-Rankuwa.
Even details:
NAME: Mathews Mpete Cup
START DATE: 13-16 June 2026
END DATE: 16 June 2026 (finals & prize giving)
TEAMS & FORMAT: Football (U/15-U/19 boys & Open for Ladies); Netball (U/15-U/19 & invitational); 30km Cycling, Masters football; 5km Road Running & Aerobics
VENUE: Ga-Rankuwa View Sport Fields (Clinic Grounds)
NB: NO entry fees will be charged from players and teams – sole purpose to develop.
