Mamelodi’s New Cruyff Court Aims to Build More Than Football Skills

Photo Credit: Rhiza Babuyile

A refurbished soccer court is giving young people in Mamelodi a place to play and learn life skills beyond the pitch.

Pretoria, South Africa (23 October 2026) – A great footballer needs more than fancy footwork, and a new community initiative in Mamelodi hopes to help young people develop skills that matter long after the final whistle.

Rhiza Babuyile, in partnership with the Johan Cruyff Foundation, launched Mamelodi’s first Cruyff Court, breathing new life into a facility that had fallen into disrepair.

The project is about much more than having somewhere to kick a ball around. The plan is to use structured sport to teach young people teamwork, discipline and responsibility while creating safe spaces where they can connect with others and grow in confidence.

For Rhiza Foundation founder Alef Meulenberg, the real value of the court lies in what happens beyond the game.

“Giving a young person a safe place to play is important, but we have to look at what happens beyond the game.”

He also highlighted the importance of helping children make responsible decisions, work with others and take ownership of their actions.

The court also aims to support young people’s mental well-being. Having a welcoming place to spend time, form friendships and build relationships with trusted adults can make a meaningful difference, particularly for children who have limited access to organised recreational activities.

And the opportunities are intended for everyone. The initiative emphasises equal access for girls, giving them space to participate in sport, develop their abilities and take on leadership roles.

While a football court cannot solve every challenge facing a community, it can create opportunities for young people to feel included and discover what they are capable of achieving.

The project’s long-term success will depend on the quality of its programmes, the people guiding them and the community’s involvement in caring for the space.

Ultimately, the goal is to help young people become active contributors to their neighbourhoods, not simply participants in a game.