The Alliance High School Soccer Tournament is proving to be more than just a sporting event; it is emerging as a powerful springboard for young footballers with professional aspirations.
Since its inception in 2022, the tournament has already seen 16 players rise through the ranks to join Premier League clubs, with seven more currently active in the lower divisions, and one breaking new ground by securing a place in South Africa’s competitive football landscape.
This was the resounding message at the official launch of the tournament’s fourth edition, held this week in Maseru.
Organised by the Lesotho Institute Schools Association (LISA) and sponsored by Alliance Insurance, the annual competition continues to showcase Lesotho’s footballing talent at the grassroots level.
Alliance Insurance, a key supporter of local sports development, reaffirmed its commitment through a three-year sponsorship deal worth M250,000. The sponsorship covers tournament administration, prizes, and playing kits.
Speaking at the launch event, Alliance Group Public Relations and Corporate Communications Manager, Limakatso Mokobocho, highlighted the significant impact the tournament has had on football development in the country.
“Sixteen of the boys who were part of this tournament have since been scouted and are now playing for Premier League clubs. One of them has even made it across the border and is currently playing in South Africa. Over seven more are actively competing in the first division,” Mokobocho revealed.
She noted that the tournament not only fuels students’ passion for sport but also instils vital life skills such as discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.
LISA President David Khohleli echoed Mokobocho’s sentiments, thanking Alliance Insurance for a fruitful partnership. He emphasised that several players who were first spotted during the tournament are now making a name for themselves in the Premier League.
Among the proud alumni of the Alliance High School Tournament are Leluma Mofoka (Matlama FC’s goalkeeper) and Teboho Montlha (LCS’s striker). Both athletes shared heartfelt testimonies about their journeys from high school teams to facing seasoned professionals in top-tier football.
Back in school, they were guaranteed starting spots, but Premier League football presents a different challenge, competition is stiff, and securing a place in the starting line-up requires relentless effort against opponents with years of experience.
The tournament’s impact now stretches well beyond the pitch. Moeketsi Khojane, president of Matlama FC, underscored the broader economic influence of sport.
He noted that sponsorship funds help sustain clubs and encourage grassroots participation, which is vital for the growth of football in Lesotho.
Caswell Moru, a representative from the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA), pointed out one ongoing challenge: the underrepresentation of women in football. He stressed the need for deliberate efforts to create opportunities for young women in the sport, if Lesotho is to achieve a truly inclusive football culture.
This year’s competition, set to kick off this weekend, will feature high school teams from the Maseru, Mafeteng, Berea, and Leribe districts. District winners will proceed to the semi-finals, with the top two teams set to battle it out in the grand finale.
The stakes are high: the tournament champions will walk away with M7,500 in cash. The runners-up will receive M5,000, while the third and fourth-placed teams will each earn M2,500.
Additional prizes include M750 for Player of the Match across 15 games, and M1,000 each for the Top Goal Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, and Player of the Tournament. Semi-finalists will each receive football jerseys, and all participating schools will benefit from new playing kits.
The launch event was attended by officials from the Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission (LSRC), the Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC), and the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA). Four of the country’s top Premier League clubs, Lioli FC, Matlama FC, LCS FC, and Linare FC, also participated, with their support including facilities and mentorship. All four clubs are currently sponsored by Alliance Insurance.
Previous champions of the tournament include St. Rose High School (2022), Christ the King High School (2023), and Masianokeng High School (2024). Since its inception, the tournament has involved more than 30 schools and helped nurture the talents of over 800 students.
Beyond football, the tournament has had a profound social impact. Schools have reported improved performance in LGSCE examinations and a noticeable drop in behavioural issues and drug use, thanks in part to the structure and discipline introduced by the competition.
As the tournament enters its fourth year, all eyes are on the next generation of stars who may follow in the footsteps of those already making waves in the Premier League and beyond. One thing is certain: the Alliance High School Soccer Tournament is not just building athletes, it is building futures.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
