Alliance launches 4th annual high school soccer tourney

Alliance Insurance has officially launched the fourth edition of its annual High School Soccer Tournament, that kicks off this week at district level.

The president of the Lesotho Institute of Schools Association (LISA), David Khohleli, commended the company for its continued support of sports development in Lesotho.

He highlighted the company’s sustained efforts to promote athletics and contribute to the well-being of Basotho.

“Alliance Insurance consistently demonstrates its commitment to supporting sports in various ways. Their contributions have a significant impact, not only through this tournament but also through their support of local clubs,” Khohleli said.

He noted that the company provides monthly financial support to Matlama Football Club, enhancing player development and overall performance on the field.

Beyond competitive sports, Alliance Insurance also engages in community outreach programmes aimed at fostering sportsmanship and encouraging youth participation in athletics.

“Through these initiatives, Alliance is helping to shape the next generation of athletes in Lesotho,” Khohleli stated.

This year’s tournament will feature male high school teams from Maseru, Mafeteng, Berea, and Leribe districts. Matches will be held under the auspices of LISA, with sponsorship from Alliance Insurance.

Khohleli added that in 2022, Alliance Insurance signed a three-year sponsorship agreement with LISA to support the tournament. The company has invested M250,000 to cover event administration, organisation, prizes, and playing kits.

“The competition will be held at district level, with teams vying to become district champions,” he explained. “Each district winner will then represent their region in the national finals, where the four champions will compete for the tournament title.”

Khohleli also reflected on the growth of the tournament and its broader purpose. “This is more than just a soccer competition; it’s about fostering teamwork, promoting sportsmanship, and building a sense of community among our youth.”

Thanking Alliance Insurance for their unwavering support, he said, “Your contributions have made it possible for us to provide a platform where our youth can showcase their skills and passion for the game.”

On her part, the company’s public relations and corporate communications manager, Limakatso Mokobocho, said this marks the fourth consecutive year of the tournament.

Mokobocho told a press conference on Tuesday this week that their broader vision is to develop the country’s youth through sports.

She further highlighted Alliance’s long-standing commitment to football in Lesotho, citing it has been the main sponsor of several premier league teams for over a decade, including Matlama FC, Lioli FC, Lesotho Correctional Service FC, and Linare FC.

This weekend’s fixtures include a range of exciting matchups across several districts:

Leribe: Leribe English Medium vs. Pitseng High School; Maboe HS and Tsikoane HS

Berea: Mapoteng HS vs. St. Rose; Mohatlane vs. ‘Malithuso at Assumption High School

Maseru: Christ the King vs. Mazenod; Thabeng High School vs. Maseru High School at LCS Grounds

Mafeteng: Bereng High School vs. St. John; Johnson Baker vs. Masentle High School at Leshoboro

The prize structure for this year’s tournament stands as follows:

1st Place: M7, 500

2nd Place: M5, 000

3rd & 4th Places: M2, 500 each