J2Ahas been making a difference in the lives of young footballers across theAfrican continent for over six years now.
Inthis time, they have organised and hosted numerous football events andfestivals, as well as other initiatives that aim to support the growth anddevelopment of young footballers.
One ofthe most significant events that J2A has been involved in is the Homeless WorldCup. This event is a week-long football tournament that brings togetherhomeless individuals from around the world to compete against each other in afriendly and supportive environment. J2A founder, Ricky Weir, accompanied TeamSouth Africa to the 17th Homeless World Cup in Cardiff, Wales in July andAugust of 2019 as their official Team Guide and liaison. This was a greataccomplishment for the players, who would never have imagined the opportunityto represent their country.
Thanksto J2A and their sponsors Standard Bank, the players on Team South Africa wereable to receive new astroturf shoes, J2A hoodies and polo shirts, GK gloves,and balls to help them perform their best at the tournament. The pride thatcould be seen on the faces of the players as they played their national anthemswas overwhelming, and it was clear that this experience was one that they wouldnever forget.
TheHomeless World Cup was the brainchild of Scotsman Mel Young back in 2003, andit has since grown into an international event that provides a uniqueopportunity for homeless individuals to represent their countries on a global stage.J2A's involvement in this event highlights their commitment to supporting thegrowth and development of young footballers from all backgrounds, regardless oftheir circumstances.
Onenotable figure who was also present at the event was Madala 'Fezile' Mhlophe,South Africa's youngest-ever professional referee. Mhlophe attended the eventto promote the new Amazon Prime six-part documentary entitled 'This isFootball,' in which he plays a featured role as a young boy who sets out tobecome a professional referee after being unable to continue playing the gamehe loves due to physical limitations.
J2A'sinvolvement in events like the Homeless World Cup and their commitment tosupporting young footballers from all walks of life is truly inspiring. Theirefforts have made a significant impact on the lives of many young people, andwe can only hope that they continue to make a positive difference in the yearsto come.
