First National Bank partners George Municipality to launch artificial football pitch

As part of the 2010 Artificial Pitch Legacy Programme, First National Bank (FNB) in partnership with the George Municipality has embarked upon a Sod Turning ceremony conducted today in light of the official opening of the Lawaaikamp artificial pitch due to take place in March 2010.

“George Municipality is extremely grateful to partner with FNB in this much needed Sport Development Project. We are convinced that all George Communities and particular the Youth will benefit from this Soccer 2010 Legacy Project,” says Mr Philip de Swardt, Mayor of George Municipality.Carla van der Spuy, FNB Regional Director Western Cape, FNB Public Sector Banking, says “This initiative affords communities the opportunity to benefit from the first soccer world cup on the African continent. The objective is to invest in strategically informed ways in order to help transform many thousands of club players and school children. The longevity of these artificial turfs, which ranges from 15 to 20 years, fits FNB’s strategic objective – and that of its partners – to ensure a long-lasting impact of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in the form of sustainable sports infrastructure for our communities”.

Already, three full-field size synthetic pitches are operational in the following municipalities:
1.    Msunduzi Municipality in Pietermaritzburg – known as FNB Wadley Stadium in the township of Edendale, officially opened by 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee Chairman, Dr. Irvin Khoza.
2.    The Ngangelizwe township of Mthatha at the Rotary Stadium.
3.    The Makwarela Stadium in the Thohoyandou Municipality in Limpopo officially opened recently by Kirsten Nematandani, President of SAFA.

These artificial pitches are at the disposal of school children and football clubs, and such a platform is key to soccer development, which will help take South African football into the future.