Reality TV search for soccer stars
10 January 2005
SABC1 is to launch a new television reality show aimed at identifying and nurturing South Africa's future soccer stars.
Called "Sokka Kings", the 13-part series - to launch in March 2005 - will combine stories of the future stars' triumphs and setbacks with a weekly game of intense, television-friendly soccer. All the participants need are soccer skills and loads of stamina.
According to The Star Tonight, the organisers expect to "audition" more than 50 000 people, with 50 of the most talented entrants being brought to Johannesburg, where 20 will be selected to go through a five-week training and competition process at a soccer camp.
The competition is open to boys of 18 years and older, and the successful participants stand to win a contract with a team in the Premier Soccer League and a sports management deal, complete with an agent who will take care of the player's financial needs.
The series will culminate in a live game
where the five finalists will play against an all-star team.
The competition is not open to any person who has already signed a soccer contract.
Trials will begin in the New Year, and interested players must go to the participating venues with their ID books.
Trials are scheduled for:
- Seisa Ramabodu Stadium, Bloemfontein on 3 January.
- Atteridgeville Stadium, Tshwane on 5 January.
- Johannesburg Stadium on 6 January.
- Rustenburg's Royal Bafokeng Stadium on 7 January.
- Seshego Stadium, Polokwane on 9 January.
- kaNyamazane Stadium, Nelspruit on 11 January.
- EPRSU Stadium, Port Elizabeth on 14 January.
- Kings Park Soccer Stadium, Durban on 16 January.
- De Beers Stadium, Kimberley on 18 January.
- Bellville Athletic Stadium, Cape Town on 22 January.
SouthAfrica.info reporter
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