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Amathole District Municipality (ADM) hosted the 2025 District Mayor’s Cup at the Willowvale Sports Field on 06 December 2025, bringing together top young athletes from across the district. The event was led by ADM Executive Mayor Councilor Anele Ntsangani, who praised municipalities for supporting youth sport and community development.
What Happened?
Councilor Ntsangani opened the tournament by thanking all participating municipalities for their role in strengthening unity and nurturing local talent.
“Sports play a vital role in promoting youth empowerment and economic growth. These activities restore dignity, change lives, and uplift our communities,” he said.
The Mayor’s Cup acts as a key talent pipeline for the provincial Steve Tshwete Games, where standout athletes from Amathole will compete at a higher level in 2026.
The event drew strong support from local structures, including:
- ADM Special Programs MMC Councilor Celiwe Genyane
- Councillors from participating municipalities
- Local Traditional Leadership representing the Xhosa Kingdom Council
- Operational teams from Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts & Culture (DSRAC), SAPS, ADSC and district officials
Official Response
During the closing ceremony, Mbhashe Executive Mayor Dr Samkelo Janda expressed gratitude for hosting rights and emphasized the municipality’s readiness to support future regional sports programs.
“We are proud that our community can help grow the district’s sporting profile. Events like these boost our economy, promote cohesion, and create opportunities for our youth,” he said.
Dr Janda noted that the tournament stimulated local economic activity, supporting small businesses, vendors and transport operators in Willowvale.
Community Impact
The 2025 edition strengthened local participation, showcased grassroots talent and reinforced Mandela’s vision of sport as a unifying force.
In addition, Mbhashe’s strong performance across multiple sporting codes reflects ongoing investment in youth development and facility improvement.
Full Results: 2025 District Mayor’s Cup
Goal Ball
- Male: 1st Ngqushwa LM | 2nd Amahlathi LM
- Female: 1st Ngqushwa LM | 2nd Amahlathi LM
Volleyball
- Male: 1st Mbhashe LM | 2nd Mnquma LM
- Female: 1st Mbhashe LM | 2nd Mnquma LM
Rugby
- Female: 1st Mbhashe LM
Handball
- Male: 1st Mbhashe LM | 2nd Raymond Mhlaba LM
- Female: 1st Mbhashe LM | 2nd Raymond Mhlaba LM
Boxing
1st Amahlathi LM | 2nd Raymond Mhlaba LM | 3rd Ngqushwa LM
Netball
1st Mbhashe LM | 2nd Mnquma LM | 3rd Ngqushwa LM
Soccer
- Female: 1st Mbhashe LM
- Male: 1st Mnquma LM | 2nd Mbhashe LM | 3rd Ngqushwa LM
