School Sports News

08/08/2025

🚨 Press Release: FIFA Investigates Forged Documents Linked to Team Elite Pro

⚠️ Urgent Warning to Football Federations: Fraudulent Conduct by Team Elite Pro

Football stakeholders across Africa are being alerted to serious misconduct involving FIFA match agent Christian Robert Hahn and his company Team Elite Pro. Verified reports confirm the submission of forged documents in attempts to conduct business in Guinea-Bissau and South Africa, falsely claiming FIFA endorsement.

📝 Details of Misrepresentation
- Falsified documents were used to gain access to federations and player networks
- These materials misrepresented FIFA affiliation and agent legitimacy
- All evidence has been submitted to FIFA President Gianni Infantino and FIFA’s legal department for formal investigation

🚫 Public Advisory
All football agencies, coaches, clubs, and federations are strongly advised to avoid any engagement with Team Elite Pro or Christian Robert Hahn. Their conduct violates FIFA’s ethical standards and may expose partners to legal, financial, and reputational harm.

🌍 Broader Context: A Pattern of Exploitation Across Africa

This incident reflects a troubling trend across the continent. Fake agents and unauthorized intermediaries continue to prey on young athletes, often leaving them stranded abroad, defrauded, or misled.

A joint campaign by FIFPRO Africa, the Didier Drogba Foundation, and the International Labour Organization (ILO) has revealed alarming statistics:

- 70% of surveyed players were contacted by someone claiming to help them move clubs
- 56% never received the promised trial
- 44% did not sign the expected contract
- 78% reported one or more disappointing experiences
- 70% had never received education on agents or intermediaries

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🎙️ Voices of Leadership and Advocacy

Didier Drogba, Honorary President of FIFPRO Africa:
> “Africa is proud of its world-class footballers. Their talent and success inspire many young Africans. But for every great success, there are countless shattered dreams.
> These young people can face great difficulties—alone in a foreign country, without family or support, they are totally vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
> Some of our friends paid their entire family savings, only to be left stranded at airports, under stadiums, or even jailed abroad. I don’t want you to be the next.”

Marshall Munetsi, Zimbabwe International and FIFPRO Global Player Council Member:
> “The issue of fake agents is a crisis. We must educate and empower players to protect themselves.
> Too many have been promised trials and contracts that never materialize. It’s time we hold these individuals accountable and build safer pathways for our athletes.”

Munya Maraire, CEO of World Wide Scholarships:

“Mr. Hahn and Team Elite Pro have failed to uphold their contractual obligations and have acted in ways that contradict our core values.

We have formally communicated with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and provided all necessary details to FIFA’s legal department, who have been very supportive throughout this process.

For 24 years, we’ve championed sports development with integrity. Africa’s time is now, and we will only work with partners who uplift our athletes with honesty and respect.”

🛡️ Protective Measures Recommended
- Verify agent credentials through FIFA’s official registry
- Never pay upfront fees before signing with a club
- Seek legal advice before signing any documents
- Report suspicious conduct to FIFA and local football authorities

📢 Call to Action
Federations, clubs, and media outlets are urged to amplify this message. The future of African football depends on vigilance, transparency, and collective action to ensure that every athlete’s journey is protected from fraud and exploitation.

04/08/2025

Sports: Africa’s Next Wave – A Visionary Dialogue with PLO Lumumba & Munya Maraire

Description:
In this powerful exchange, African thought leader Prof. PLO Lumumba joins Munya Maraire, CEO of World Wide Scholarships, to explore the transformative potential of sports as a driving force for Africa’s future. From the creation of sustainable ecosystems to the economic impact rivaling traditional industries like mining, they unpack how sports—when fused with education—can unlock unprecedented opportunity across the continent.

This conversation dives deep into:

•⁠ ⁠🌍 The strategic role of sports in Africa’s development
•⁠ ⁠📚 Integrating education to build holistic athlete pathways
•⁠ ⁠💼 Building ecosystems that empower youth, drive innovation, and attract global investment
•⁠ ⁠🔥 Why sports may be Africa’s most untapped resource

Watch as two visionary minds chart a bold roadmap for Africa’s next generation.

The two organizations PLO Foundation and World Wide Scholarships have collaborated to create a Pan African solution to sports development and opportunity access on the continent!

If your child is talented in sports take action with World Wide Scholarships!

In this powerful exchange, African thought leader Prof. PLO Lumumba joins Munya Maraire, CEO of World Wide Scholarships, to explore the transformative potent...

28/07/2025

Karabo Letebele Closes Breakout Season with Global Eyes Watching

Johannesburg, South Africa – [28 July 2025]
South Africa’s teenage sprint prodigy, Karabo Letebele, has officially concluded his 2025 athletic season—capping a year that saw him transform from a promising junior into one of the most talked-about young sprinters on the global stage. Despite invitations to race in several top-tier World Athletics events across Europe, Letebele chose to pause and prioritize recovery, long-term planning, and brand development—a mature move that reflects both discipline and foresight.

Just 18 years old, Letebele shook the African sprinting landscape with his surprise victory over reigning continental champion Ferdinand Omanyala, a moment that rippled across social media and track circles worldwide. From national silver medals to record-setting international performances, Letebele has carved out his place among the future stars of track and field.

🌟 Season Highlights
•⁠ ⁠100m Personal Best: Shaved his time from 10.41s to a blazing 10.15s
•⁠ ⁠Silver Medalist: South Africa Junior Championships & Africa Junior Championships
•⁠ ⁠International Triumph: Broke meet records at the World Youth Festival in Sweden
•⁠ ⁠Senior-Level Wins: Outpaced multiple top-ranked South African senior sprinters
•⁠ ⁠Endorsement Milestone: Nike sponsorship, affirming his marketability and global appeal

Letebele’s breakthrough wasn’t just athletic—it was symbolic. In a season dominated by pressure, opportunity, and expectation, he chose integrity and vision. The decision to rest—despite the allure of further international exposure—signals a long-term commitment to excellence rather than instant gratification.

📚 Next Steps: Global Ambitions on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Letebele remains eligible for another junior year and has already set his sights on the 2026 World Junior Championships, with the goal of standing atop the global podium. Off the track, he is entering the final stages of a scholarship evaluation process that could take him to the United States. Several elite programs have tabled offers, and Letebele, alongside his management, is conducting a thorough assessment focused on:

•⁠ ⁠Coaching alignment
•⁠ ⁠Facilities and training technology
•⁠ ⁠Academic fit and cultural environment
•⁠ ⁠Long-term athlete development opportunities

His potential move to the U.S. could shape the trajectory of South African sprinting influence on the collegiate and international scene.

🎙️ Words from Management
Munya Maraire, CEO of World Wide Scholarships and Letebele’s manager, shared:

“Karabo has the greatest asset in life—time. We’ve remained grounded, even as he proves to be one of the most promising sprinters globally. His family is incredibly supportive, and we’re proud to close the season to allow him time to rest and recover from minor niggles that, if avoided, could’ve made this a sub-10 season. The future is bright—Karabo is undoubtedly part of the next generation set to lead South African sprinting.”

Letebele’s journey reflects more than talent—it exemplifies maturity, vision, and resilience. As media, scouts, and fans worldwide watch his next move, one thing is clear: the next chapter of African sprinting has already begun, and Karabo Letebele is writing it in real time.

World Wide Scholarships Media Relations
📧 [email protected]
📞 +27 83 419 0117
🌐 www.worldwidescholarships.com

16/07/2025

INTERNATIONAL TV MEDIA COVERAGE CONFIRMED FOR THE 3rd EDITION OF THE CAA AFRICAN U18 & U20 CHAMPIONSHIPS IN NIGERIA

The 3rd edition of the CAA African U18 & U20 Athletics Championships has officially launched in Nigeria, drawing an impressive turnout from 43 nations across the continent. With elite athletes competing at the highest level, the Championships have already been declared a resounding success.

🏛️ In conjunction with the Games, the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) hosted its prestigious Council Meeting and Congress, bringing together federation presidents from all participating countries. This strategic gathering highlights the shared commitment to advancing African athletics on the global stage.

🎙️ CAA President Hamad Kalkaba Malboum warmly welcomed the delegations and extended his gratitude to Hon. Tonobok Okowa, President of Athletics Federation of Nigeria, for his exceptional coordination and hospitality, together with the National Sports Commission of Nigeria.

🌍 Global Spotlight Secured

A major milestone for African athletics was secured as international media coverage was confirmed, promising unprecedented exposure and broadcasting reach.

Mr. Munya Maraire, CEO of World Wide Scholarships and strategic CAA partner, emphasized:

⁠“Having international media coverage is a big boost for African athletics because it seals the opportunity to get serious sponsorships for the continent. If you are not visible, you are invisible. I thank President Kalkaba for trusting in our expertise and allowing us to rebrand and re-energize the CAA brand. The future is great for African Athletics.”

🎥 Broadcast veteran Melinda Lombard, former Executive Producer of SABC, commended Chichi Nwoko of What Media Group for securing distribution across SuperSport channel 208, Startimes, and SABC, coordinated through Team 33 Productions:

⁠“Millions will now witness the brilliance of African youth as they take center stage. This coverage puts African talent in front of the world.”

📺 Stay tuned as African athletics surges into the international spotlight — setting the pace for future champions and forging pathways for global partnerships.

Media contact: [email protected]

16/07/2025

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Distribution

South African Athletes Stranded in Marseille Amid Unfulfilled Commitments by Meeting Agent

Marseille, France — A group of South African athletes were left stranded following the recent Marseille athletics meeting, facing dire conditions without food or the promised travel levy. Despite repeated attempts to engage with meeting agent Laurent Manneveau, no resolution has been reached.

Manneveau had made multiple assurances regarding the provision of travel levies and appearance fees to participating athletes. However, these commitments remain unmet, leaving athletes unsupported and exposed in a foreign country.

This incident has raised serious concerns about the credibility and operational integrity of the Marseille meeting. Athletes and agents globally are urged to exercise caution when engaging with this event in future seasons. The repeated failure to honor basic athlete welfare obligations is not only unacceptable but indicative of a broader decline in the meeting’s reputation and organizational standards.

Athletics representatives call for greater accountability and transparency in international athletics engagements. Athletes deserve respect, dignity, and the fulfillment of agreed-upon terms — anything less undermines the spirit of global sport.

06/07/2025

🥈 Silver Medal for South Africa’s Rising Star in Sweden

Helsingborg, Sweden — July 6, 2025
South Africa’s Gauteng long jump champion, Alethea Visser, wrapped up her European athletics tour in electrifying fashion—securing a silver medal at the Helsingborg Invitation Meeting in Sweden.

Visser, whose powerful performance and podium finish drew international attention, is rapidly emerging as one of South Africa’s most promising junior athletes. With her sights set on the USA, she’s poised to receive an athletics scholarship in 2026, a testament to her talent and drive.

Currently in her final year at Höerskool Transvalia in Vanderbijlpark, Alethea’s recent success marks a major milestone in her journey toward global excellence.

“Alethea continues to inspire with her consistent progress and fierce determination. She’s not only a medalist—but a future star on the world stage,” said Munya Maraire CEO of World Wide Scholarships.

The podium in Helsingborg symbolized more than victory—it celebrated a leap toward a brighter future for one of South Africa’s finest young jumpers.

World Wide Scholarships

06/07/2025

Luvo Manyonga Returns to International Stage with Strong Fourth-Place Finish in Greece

Vari, Greece – July 5, 2025
Former World Champion and African record holder Luvo Manyonga opened his international season at the World Athletics Continental Tour - Silver level meeting, held at the Konstantinos Baglatzis Municipal Stadium in Vari, Greece. Manyonga soared to a distance of 7.76 meters, securing fourth place in a fiercely competitive long jump event.

🥇 Event Results – Men’s Long Jump

| 1 | Miltiadis Tentoglou | Greece | 8.12 m |
| 2 | William Williams | USA | 7.91 m |

| 3 | Radek Juška | Czech Rep. | 7.84 m |
| 4 | Luvo Manyonga | South Africa| 7.76 m |
| 5 | Oleg Sakirkin | Kazakhstan | 7.70 m |
| 6 | Andreas Pantazis | Greece | 7.65 m |
| 7 | Christos Karypidis | Greece | 7.58 m

This performance marks the beginning of a promising chapter in Manyonga's comeback story. A veteran of world athletics, Manyonga's career is decorated with remarkable achievements:

🏆 Career Highlights
- World Champion (2017) – Gold medal in London with a leap of 8.48 m
- Olympic Silver Medalist (2016) – Rio Games, 8.37 m
- Commonwealth Games Gold (2018) – Gold Coast, 8.41 m
- World Indoor Silver (2018) – Birmingham
- African Games Champion (2011) – Maputo
- World Junior Champion (2010)
- African Championships Silver (2016) – Durban
- Personal Best: 8.65 m (Potchefstroom, 2017)

⏩ Upcoming Competitions
Manyonga is scheduled to compete in three more international events this July:
- July 8 – Meeting Arcobaleno EAP in Celle Ligure, Italy
- July 13 – Meeting International de Marseille, France
- July 19 – London Diamond League at London Stadium

🗣 Manager’s Statement:

Luvo’s manager, Munya Maraire, CEO of World Wide Scholarships, shared:
“We are happy to see Luvo doing what he was born to do which is jump and jump well. This is the goal for this season. He has a formidable spirit and an excellent team around him. God will determine the rest. Proverbs 22 v 29 says: ‘A man skilled in his works will serve before kings.’”

01/07/2025

Shout out to my newest followers! Excited to have you onboard! Paul Van Straaten, Stacey-lee Haskins Pretorius, Ceasar Plaatjies, HI Jump Nix

29/06/2025

Karabo Letebele Shatters Göteborg World Youth Games 100m Record

Göteborg, Sweden – South African sprint sensation Karabo Letebele has made history at the Göteborg World Youth Games, smashing the 100m record with a blistering 10.25s in the heats before setting a personal best of 10.17s in the finals.

Letebele, widely regarded as the future of South African sprinting, will now embark on a European tour, aiming to break the elusive 10-second barrier in the coming weeks.

Managed by World Wide Scholarships (WWS), Letebele’s performance has solidified his status as one of the most promising young sprinters on the global stage. Munya Maraire, CEO of WWS, expressed his excitement about Letebele’s achievements:

"Karabo is the GOAT. The hardest thing for us right now is remembering that he is only an 18-year-old kid. He has defeated some of the best 100m contenders in the world this season, despite dealing with a few niggling injuries. What’s so exciting about Karabo is that we have not yet gone through a full cycle of training—these times are coming while he is still in speed endurance training, which is incredible.

We are patient and focused. He must continue to thrive in the junior categories and enjoy being a junior—there is plenty of time for him to transition into senior sprinting. Right now, he must enjoy the journey as we prepare for next year’s World Junior Championships."

Letebele’s record-breaking run marks a significant milestone in his career and sets the stage for an electrifying season ahead. With his sights set on further international success, the young sprinter is poised to make waves in the global athletics scene.

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28/06/2025

Johan Haasbroek Storms to Victory in Sweden at Göteborg Youth Games

Göteborg, Sweden – South African rising star Johan Haasbroek delivered a spectacular performance in his international debut, securing victory in the 400m hurdles at the prestigious Göteborg Youth Games. Competing against a highly competitive field of European athletes, Haasbroek clocked an impressive 54.38 seconds, cementing his place among the future stars of track and field.

Adding to South Africa’s strong showing, Morné Engelbrecht showcased his talent in the professional section of the 400m hurdles, finishing 4th with a commendable time of 52.90 seconds.

South African Talent Shines on the Global Stage

Both athletes are competing in the Göteborg Youth Games, officially known as Världsungdomsspelen, one of Sweden’s largest and most prestigious youth athletics competitions. Established in 1996, the event attracts over 3,500 athletes from 27 countries, providing a platform for young talents to compete alongside international stars.

Past record holders of the event include Olympic champions Carolina Klüft, Stefan Holm, and Gerd Kanter, reinforcing the competition’s reputation as a launchpad for elite athletes.

World Wide Scholarships Initiative

Haasbroek’s participation in Sweden was made possible through an invitation from World Wide Scholarships (WWS), a leading organization dedicated to connecting Africa’s top athletic talent with global opportunities. Based on his outstanding performances in the South African high school season, Haasbroek was selected to tour Sweden as part of WWS’s annual initiative to showcase young African athletes on the international stage.

WWS continues to play a pivotal role in athlete development, sponsorship acquisition, and international representation, ensuring that talents like Haasbroek and Engelbrecht gain the exposure needed to excel in professional and collegiate sports worldwide.

Looking Ahead

With Haasbroek’s victory and Engelbrecht’s strong performance, South African athletes are making their mark in Sweden, further solidifying the country’s growing presence in international athletics. Their achievements set the stage for future success, inspiring the next generation of African athletes to pursue excellence on the global stage.

For more information on the Göteborg Youth Games, visit Världsungdomsspelen’s official website.

Follow the athletes on social media: .nel

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28/06/2025

Hilton College Star Morné Engelbrecht Takes on the Pros at Göteborg Youth Games

Göteborg, Sweden – South African schools champion Morné Engelbrecht proved his talent on the international stage, delivering a strong performance in the 400m hurdles professional section at the prestigious Göteborg Youth Games. Competing against seasoned European athletes, Engelbrecht finished 4th with a commendable time of 52.90 seconds, showcasing his ability to compete at an elite level.

Engelbrecht, a standout athlete from Hilton College, is the reigning South African Schools champion in both the 110m hurdles and 400m hurdles. His dominance in national competitions earned him an invitation to participate in the World Wide Scholarships (WWS) Euro Compete Tour, an initiative designed to expose Africa’s top young athletes to international competition.

South African Talent Shines on the Global Stage

The Göteborg Youth Games, officially known as Världsungdomsspelen, is one of Sweden’s largest and most prestigious youth athletics competitions. Established in 1996, the event attracts over 3,500 athletes from 27 countries, providing a platform for emerging talents to compete alongside international stars.

Past record holders of the event include Olympic champions Carolina Klüft, Stefan Holm, and Gerd Kanter, reinforcing the competition’s reputation as a launchpad for elite athletes. Engelbrecht’s performance further highlights South Africa’s growing presence in global athletics.

World Wide Scholarships Initiative

Engelbrecht’s participation in Sweden was made possible through World Wide Scholarships (WWS), a leading organization dedicated to connecting Africa’s top athletic talent with global opportunities. As part of the WWS Euro Compete Tour, Engelbrecht is gaining invaluable experience competing against international athletes, preparing him for future success on the world stage.

WWS continues to play a pivotal role in athlete development, sponsorship acquisition, and international representation, ensuring that talents like Engelbrecht receive the exposure needed to transition into professional and collegiate sports worldwide.

Looking Ahead

With Engelbrecht’s impressive performance in Sweden, South African athletes are making their mark in international athletics. His achievements set the stage for future success, inspiring the next generation of African athletes to pursue excellence on the global stage.

For more information on the Göteborg Youth Games, visit Världsungdomsspelen’s official website.

Follow Morné Engelbrecht and WWS on social media:
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CoachChris White

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25/06/2025

Five elite junior athletes have embarked on an exciting journey to Sweden as part of the inaugural World Wide Scholarships (WWS) Euro Compete Tour. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide Africa’s top young talent with international exposure and competitive opportunities on the global stage.

Leading the delegation is Wimpie Nel, a decorated hurdles and sprint coach from Zwartkop Höerskool. Nel, renowned for his expertise in junior athlete development, has coached numerous athletes to success at the world level and will be guiding the team through their European campaign.

The athletes were scouted during the recently concluded junior athletics season by World Wide Scholarships Organization, which continues to play a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing Africa’s premier sporting talent.

During their time in Sweden, the athletes will compete in several high-profile events, with the Gothenburg Youth Games being the marquee competition. This prestigious event attracts over 8,000 participants from 27 countries, offering a world-class platform for these rising stars to showcase their abilities.

Among the standout athletes is Karabo Letebele, who will be aiming to break the elusive 10-second barrier in the 100m sprint. Meanwhile, national hurdles champion Morne Engelbrecht will test his skills in the 400m and 110m hurdles, facing off against top international competitors.

Other notable athletes on the tour include Johan Haasbroek, a youth specialist in the 400m hurdles, and Alethea Visser, the reigning Gauteng Champion in the long jump.

The WWS Euro Compete Tour marks a significant milestone in African athletics, providing young athletes with the opportunity to gain invaluable experience and elevate their careers on the global stage.

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