The Grannies International Football Tournament, known as GIFT, unfolded in the town of Tzaneen in South Africa's Limpopo province, drawing a colorful crowd of women over fifty from seven nations.
A Global Gathering of Grannies on the Pitch
Founded by Beka Ntsanwisi, the event was created to promote health and unity among older women, turning the simple idea of a friendly competition into a platform for empowerment.
Teams representing the United States, France, Togo, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia and South Africa arrived with their own histories, training methods and spirited chants, each match a celebration of experience and camaraderie.
Mid‑tournament, the Zambian squad faced a setback when their bus broke down on the road to the venue, yet the players continued their preparations, embodying the resilience that the tournament seeks to highlight.
Honours and Celebrations
At the closing ceremony, the French side Les Reines du Foot received the award for best team spirit, while the New England Breakers were crowned the tournament's overall champions.
Laurance Gonzalez of the French team Les Zamies Foot was celebrated as the best individual player, capping a week of fierce yet friendly competition.
The final day concluded with a group photo, music, dancing and a shared sense of accomplishment that resonated far beyond the scores on the scoreboard.
Beyond the trophies, the tournament underscored the power of sport to bridge generations, cultures and continents, leaving participants and observers alike inspired by the vitality of these women.