Former Kaizer Chiefs and Polokwane City midfielder Cole Alexander has
pointed to the Engen Knockout Challenge as the critical launchpad for his
professional career, labeling it one of South Africa’s most vital youth
development platforms.
Now serving as a selector at the Engen Champ of Champs, Alexander expressed
his privilege in being part of a tournament that continues to shape the next
generation of male and female footballers.
“The stats speak for themselves. This is one of the most important
tournaments for our youth,” Alexander stated. “I realised I could become a
professional player because of this tournament. That’s how I signed pro. I
had a good Engen tournament, we won it, and the next thing I was in the PSL
in the very same year.”
A Proven Pathway
Alexander’s own journey is a testament to the tournament’s power. He credits
his standout performance as a teenager with directly leading to his first
professional contract. He also highlighted the competition’s prestigious
alumni, including Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams.
“For the current players, you never know who’s watching,” he advised,
emphasizing the event’s role in bridging the gap between grassroots and the
professional game. “A lot of good things come from this tournament. It’s a
big deal for South Africa.”
Benefiting the National Landscape
The former midfielder also believes the tournament’s influence extends to
the highest levels of South African football. He noted that several players
from the recent U20 World Cup squad are products of the Engen series,
proving its importance for national team development.
He was particularly impressed with the growth of the women’s game, adding,
“I’m so impressed with the females. Our football is improving by a stretch
compared to many years ago, and I’m proud of that for us as a country.”
Alexander concluded with a positive outlook on South African football as a
whole, stating, “We’ve made strides and we’re close to competing with the
best in the world. The tournament will just keep getting better and better.”
