EMALAHLENI – Young Aces FC, Highveld Young Lions FC and Blackburn Rovers FC have been crowned champions of the Ezinambeni Local Football Association (LFA) Development Zone’s 2026 Development League.
The three teams secured titles in their respective age divisions when the season concluded on Sunday, 4 October, at Phathudi Sportfield.
Young Aces FC claimed the U11 title after an unbeaten campaign, while Highveld Young Lions FC won the U13 championship with 99 points from 35 matches and only two defeats.
Blackburn Rovers FC were crowned U17 champions after also completing an unbeaten campaign. The U15 champion had not yet been confirmed at the time of the league’s official announcement.
The champions will represent the Ezinambeni LFA Development Zone at the Champs of Champs competition on 10 October at Witbank High School.
The league gave young players an opportunity to improve their football skills, gain competitive experience and learn the importance of discipline and commitment on and off the field.
Each championship-winning team received 20 gold medals, a league championship trophy and two soccer balls.
Ezinambeni Zone chairperson Thomas Choma thanked everyone who contributed to the season’s success and helped make the final day memorable for the young players.
“Leaders and colleagues, a special thanks to everyone who made this day memorable for the kids. Congratulations to us all as Ezinambeni for making this season a memorable one for the kids,” Choma said.
Vusi Kabinde thanked coaches, teams, parents and other stakeholders for their contributions throughout the season. He also acknowledged Development Secretariat official Maleeu Mahlangu for his commitment to ensuring the league’s administrative work was carried out effectively.
The final event was attended by LFA First Deputy President Oupa Mnisi, LFA Secretary General Emmanuel Pacule, Ezinambeni Zone Secretary Sibusiso Mashaba and Rondo FC chairman Shabalala.
Highveld Young Lions head coach Innocent Mkhonto, known as Mntungwa, described the U13 title as the result of a demanding season and praised his players’ commitment.
“It was a tough year. There were 20 teams, and in the end there had to be one winner. We managed to do that and defeated all 19 other teams,” Mkhonto said.
“I am grateful to my boys because they were always present on the ground and committed to the team,” he added.
The Ezinambeni LFA Development Zone said the season’s success should be measured not only by trophies and medals, but also by the opportunities created for young players to develop their talents, build friendships and participate in positive community activities.
Attention now turns to the Champs of Champs, where the Ezinambeni champions will compete against teams from other development zones.
