KNYSNA NEWS - The 2025 Eden Regional Inter Schools soccer festival took place at Knysna's Safe Hub fields last weekend, with Concordia High School emerging as champions after a thrilling 0(4)-0(2) penalty shootout victory over Imizamo Yethu High at midnight on 3 May.
The air was charged with the energy of local supporters as 11 high schools, including Knysna Secondary, Hillcrest, and Fezekile Secondary, competed in the prestigious tournament.
The festival went late into the night as it had to be played on only one field at Knysna's Safe Hub after the first choice of venue, Hornlee Stadium, was unusable due to broken goal posts.
In the semi-finals, Imizamo Yethu secured a 3-0 penalty win over Hillcrest High, while Concordia High edged out Indwe High 2-1 under the floodlights.
The final saw both teams pressing hard, with Imizamo Yethu's Jadon Linamandla Mntonga impressing with his skills and Onke Gushu shooting at the goal but striking the woodwork.
Hlomla Hoco of Imizamo Yethu (right) controls the ball against a Percy Mdala High player (left) chasing him down.
Concordia made the most of their home ground advantage and their defence held firm. Despite offensive play in the second half, no goals were scored, leading to the decisive shootout.
Bethwel Mene, the festival organiser, praised the fierce competition and talent on display.
Starting with only three schools in 2022, the event has grown into a regional showcase supported by Knysna Municipality and sponsored by BSM Sport Development, Ekhaya, Aquelle and Blue Ribbon.
He said the festival's aim is to keep learners busy, advance friendly relations, keep high school sports alive and identify talent for a 2026 touring squad. Mene emphasised the need for more exposure for talented players whose strength lies in their sport rather than academics.
Despite challenges like late school entries, transport delays, and facility issues, the tournament was a success. Mene plans to expand the event to the provincial level in 2026, inviting schools from beyond the region to keep soccer alive among the youth.
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