The growing impact of the North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute has earned recognition beyond the football pitch after it received a special honour at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) North West provincial municipal awards.
The NWU Soccer Institute was recognised with the Chairperson’s Leadership and Distinguished Service Recognition Award in the Special Awards category. The awards ceremony took place at Seasons Golf, Leisure and Spa in Hartbeespoort on 9 September 2026.
The recognition adds another milestone to an impressive period for the institute. It highlights its contribution to sport development and its role in creating opportunities for young footballers through structured development and high-performance programmes.
SALGA uses its provincial awards platform to recognise excellence and outstanding contributions in the local government environment, as SALGA North West said in its invitation to the NWU Soccer Institute.
The award also comes during a memorable year for the Soccer Institute. Its senior football team secured promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after a successful run at the ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs.
The institute has also continued to develop players who have earned recognition at provincial and national level. This strengthens its position as an important talent-development structure in university and South African football.
Dr Vuyo Sambo, manager of the NWU Soccer Institute, said the SALGA recognition reflected the collective effort behind the programme.
“This recognition is a proud moment for the NWU Soccer Institute. It shows that the work we do reaches beyond results on the football field. Our aim is to develop talented footballers, responsible young people and future leaders. This award belongs to our players, coaches, support staff and the university leadership who continue to believe in the vision of the institute.”
For the NWU Soccer Institute, the award strengthens an already impressive record in 2026 and underlines the value of sport as a vehicle for development, leadership and community impact.
Dr Vuyo Sambo with North West Provincial legislature speaker Viola Motsumi at the SALGA Awards.
