Kicking Drugs to the Curb

Thabazimbi – From dusty streets to hopeful dreams, the Ngata Ntsi Football Club is proving that soccer is more than just a game – it’s a lifeline. Founded as a community-based initiative to keep young people away from drugs and crime, the club now boasts over 70 players across divisions ranging from under-11 to under-17.

Through their ‘Clean Up the Streets’ programme, the club has built strong partnerships, including with SUDI – a substance use disorder intervention organisation. Every Thursday at Regorogile’s soccer field, SUDI facilitators meet with players to discuss the dangers of drugs and how to make better choices for the future.

“Our aim is to get the youth off the streets and give them a sense of purpose and pride,” says club leaders William Moses Shabangu (general secretary) and Johannes Jambo (head of technical).

The results are already showing. Players describe finding belonging, commitment, and new friendships on and off the pitch. Recently, the under-15 squad proudly took home a second-place trophy at a local tournament, while the under-17 team competed in the 2025 Youth Uniting Against Substance Abuse Tournament.

Now, Ngata Ntsi is taking the next big step – preparing to enter official leagues. But as a non-profit organisation, they rely solely on donations and community support to keep the ball rolling. They have even been invited to play a team in Smash Block, but urgently need funding for transport and logistics to make it happen.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Community members and businesses are encouraged to donate funds or resources to support the club’s mission. Contributions will go directly towards transport, kits, and expanding opportunities for local youth.

• Address: 2185 Tsakane Street, Regorogile 05, Thabazimbi
• Email: info.ngatantsi@gmail.com 
• Tel: 066 369 2425 or 071 426 6930