Meggie Ledwaba is taking initiative in getting young boys, under 15 off the streets.
“I have grown to see and learn how young boys end up dedicating their lives to substance abuse and gangsterism, and I couldn’t bask when I knew there was something I could do to reduce that”. Said Meggie.
Meggie is a bubbly 29-year-old, born and bred in Mashashane GaKgasha few kilometres away from the Polokwane CBDs. She is the proud founder and coach of Strickers Soccer Club under 15s that she holds close to her heart, whilst juggling between that and her 9-5 job.
Strickers Soccer Club was established on the 16th March 2024 with the aim of taking young boys off the streets. The same streets that throws our brothers and sisters off the trail of their dreams and passion and to the wolves.
Meggie says she wants to grow as a coach and a human, making a difference in the lives of the boys and that of their parents and the community at large. Further grooming them to know their purpose in life and she further teaches them of several thorns that plaques boys their age.
Meggie says that she always wanted to do something to give back to the community and she has finally he found it, and growing in love with it everyday. The team is practicing Monday-friday at Tigers Sports Ground laying between Mapateng and Segoahleng Villages.
‘I want to make an impact that will live within the boys’s hearts and minds even after couple of years knowing that I never let them go astray under my watch”. Meggie confidently said.
Meggie’s love for her soccer team is evident where she’d spend money from her own pocket to buy the boys some snack and fruits once in a while, making means end to secure friendly games with neighbouring soccer teams, ensuring that the boys has a gear to wear and feel comfortable in, further making sure they never miss a minute to get their homeworks done. It is safe to say that Meggie has the boys’ interest at heart, even outside the soccer field.
“Juggling between my 9-5 job and the soccer team hasn’t been busy but I try giving both my attention they deserves and I’m settling in very well “. She said.
The former coach of Tigers Sports Ground, Mr. Koos Dolo says that he was at first relectanct about a lady of Maggie’s calibre taking over after months of no movement, or rather control at Tigers but Meggie’s consistency and determination drove him back. “We are in need of ladies like Ledwaba as they live to continue making our community a better and ideal place to live in”. He said.
One of the boys, Lefa Ngwetsana says that Meggie is not just a coach, but she is kind, patient, and understanding. “She pushes us to concentration and brings out the best in most of us”.
Meggie and the boys are looking for sponsorship to sponsor their dream of becoming one of the best and recognised teams around the village. “It doesn’t have to be about money, we are also in need of soccer boots, balls, gear, wistles and other accessories “. Says Meggie.
Facebook: Lekgarebe Laga Ledwaba
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