Fresh from one of the most remarkable debut seasons in South African football, national ABC Motsepe League champions Hope FC have been honoured by Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie.
The recognition comes just weeks after the Mitchell’s Plain-linked club completed a fairytale rise from newcomers to national champions, securing promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship and writing their name into the history books.
The club, which entered the semi-professional ranks this season after acquiring the status of Sea Point Swifts and later rebranding as Hope FC, exceeded expectations from the outset.
Under coach Dylan Deane, Hope topped the Western Cape ABC Motsepe League’s Stream A before beating Diadora FC 1-0 in the provincial final at William Herbert Sports Ground in Wynberg. Cole Schoeman’s second-half strike proved decisive as Hope secured the provincial crown.
That victory booked the club’s place at the national playoffs in Mthatha, where the Cape side continued its dream run. After overcoming Northern Cape champions NC Professionals in the semi-finals, Hope edged North West University 5-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the final to lift the national title. The triumph secured promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship and earned the club R1.25 million in prize money.
The achievement is all the more remarkable considering the club was established less than a year ago. Barely eight months after its formation, Hope FC has gone from ambitious newcomers to national champions.
Among those who played a key role in the campaign was Lentegeur-born goalkeeper Leathan Croats. The shot-stopper battled through injury during the national playoffs and produced a series of important performances as Hope marched to the title. Speaking after the team’s return from the Eastern Cape, Croats described the campaign as a life-changing experience and a source of inspiration for young footballers from communities such as Mitchell’s Plain.
Experienced campaigners also formed the backbone of the squad, including captain Craig Martin and striker Ruzaigh Gamildien, while former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Clayton Daniels served as part of the club’s technical team. Off the field, former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Keagan Buchanan has helped drive the project as chairman and CEO.
The honour from the Western Cape Government comes at a time of transition for the newly crowned champions. Earlier this week, Hope FC and head coach Dylan Deane confirmed they had mutually agreed to part ways following the club’s promotion-winning season. Both the club and Deane wished each other well in separate statements, bringing to a close a chapter that delivered provincial and national honours in the club’s maiden campaign.
“Dylan’s name will forever be part of the story of Hope FC and the success achieved during this historic chapter,” the club’s statement read.
“His leadership, commitment and contribution have helped lay an important foundation for the journey ahead, and for that we are sincerely grateful.”
Reflecting on his departure, Deane expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the club’s journey.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to my players, the Hope FC supporters and my coaching staff for their unwavering support throughout the season,” the title-winning coach said.
“Nine months ago, when the club was formed, the idea of becoming national champions was a distant dream. However, just two months into our existence, after reaching the regional final, belief within the team began to grow and our ambitions became much bigger,” he said.
In congratulating the newly crowned champions, Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie praised the club’s remarkable rise and the inspiration it has provided to aspiring footballers across the province.
“The Western Cape proudly celebrates Hope FC following their remarkable victory in the ABC Motsepe national play-offs,” said Mackenzie during the team’s visit to the ministry’s offices and Parliament.
“They represented our province with distinction and showcased the incredible football talent that exists within our communities.
“With strong roots in Mitchell’s Plain and the broader Cape Flats, Hope FC’s achievement is a testament to perseverance, passion and the power of sport to inspire,” he said.
Fuad Esack
southernmail.co.za