Soccer fever swept through Atlantis as our four local high schools took part in the Metro North Top Schools Soccer Competition, held from 8 to 19 September. These young players showed their skill, determination and heart, proving once again that Atlantis has talent to match any district.
Teams qualified through their cluster leagues, with age groups of under-15, under-17 and under-19 taking part. Matches were played at Bishop Lavis, Voorbrug and Symphony Park.Proteus High made Atlantis proud by winning the under-17 division. They beat Excelsior High 3–0, then Saxonsea High 2–1 in the semifinal, and finally took home the trophy with a 2–0 win against Fisantekraal High. Soccer coordinator Clyde Brian Lucas said it was a team effort from the school, with big performances from captain Lesego Solani and top scorer Roland Simson. He added, “When one school in Atlantis wins, the whole community celebrates.”
Saxonsea High played in all three age groups and showed great spirit, even though they did not make it to the finals. For many of their players, it was the first time playing outside Atlantis, but once the nerves were gone, their talent came through. Coach Mario Avontuur praised his young stars, including Chad Kleinsmidt and Munheer Leport (under 15), Gershwin Sonneberg (under 17) and Tylo Erasmus (under 19). He said the team learned never to underestimate any opponent.
Atlantis High also had strong teams in all three age groups. Their under-15 team lost a nail-biting penalty shootout 10–9, while the under-19’s were beaten 1–0 by Bellville South. Coach Anthony Ohlson said it was tough because the tournament took place during exams, but the boys gave their best. He highlighted the leadership of captain Keith Galant and vice-captain Ade Baleni, and reminded the team that success comes from trusting each other and being well-prepared. But Robinvale High indeed had a tournament to remember, winning the under-19 division and finishing runners-up in the under-15s. For teacher and team manager Elrique Snyders, the victory was extra special: “We have lost so many finals over the years, so this win was a relief. The team stayed calm, treated the final like any other game, and in the very last play we finally pulled off a move we had been practicing all season.” He also thanked parents, teachers and local businesses for their support, saying that all Atlantis schools contribute to each other’s success.
Even though only Proteus and Robinvale came home with trophies, every school showed talent, teamwork and showing the district the true spirit of Atlantis.
