AmaTuks, fans have a ball

Independent Newspaper Limited

AmaTuks captain Siya Mngoma leads his team to the stage to celebrate with their supporters at Church Square where they presented the trophy to Tshwanes excecutive mayor Kgosientso Ramokopa. Picture: Oupa Mokoena

HOSEA RAMPHEKWA and ALISON RUMSEY

WITH the late Busi Mhlongo’s hit, Thini Sizwe, at full blast, executive mayor of Tshwane Kgosientso Ramokgopa pulled off a repertoire of dance moves during the AmaTuks victory parade at Church Square yesterday.

Not many witnessed Ramokgopa’s silky dance moves as this happened in a tent near the stage, where AmaTuks players and their coach Steve Barker were celebrated by their adoring fans. Ramokgopa expressed delight at having AmaTuks plying their trade in the elite class – Premier Soccer League (PSL) – after they were crowned National First Division champions last week.

“We are extremely happy. It’s a significant moment to profile Tshwane as a city of champions,” Ramokgopa said.

“The Blue Bulls and the Titans are doing well. Now we have three teams in the PSL.

“The best thing about this soccer is that it will be the whole community of Tshwane together behind football. We are grateful for the team. We hope they remain in the PSL for as long as it takes,” he said.

“I was moved by the vision of Barker. The best thing is to support him and I am sure the team is going to get really far.”

Before making a stop at Church Square, Barker and his men showed off their NFD champions’ trophy to fans, who captured the moments with digital cameras and cellphones throughout the city.

A few had a chance to pose with the trophy and the stars. Tuks midfielder Philani Kwela, who played at the under-20 Fifa World Cup, proved to be a hit with supporters who flocked to the square. Fans were further thrilled by the players who showed off their dance moves on stage.

AmaTuks captain Siya Mngoma, 23, introduced his teammates to the masses.

“As a young player it’s an honour to captain this team. I’m very excited. Words can’t express how I’m feeling,” said Mngoma, whose team will join Mamelodi Sundowns and SuperSport United as the city’s representatives in the elite league next season.

AmaTuks fanatic Bianca Mafika, a second-year Sports Management student at Tuks, was also there to show support to Barker and his troops.

Mafika and other ardent fans were lucky enough to join the team on the double-decker bus.

“The team has done a really good job. They have worked hard and deserve it,” she said.

An elated Barker, who guided AmaTuks to the PSL after eight years without success, said he was moved by the appreciation and support shown to his team.

“It’s been overwhelming. The support and kind words by the mayor are humbling. I am proud to know that the people of Tshwane support our success.

“It’s a proud moment of my career,” said Barker, who is a former PSL player.