KFC Mini-Cricket National Seminar sets the stage for new season

Cricket South Africa (CSA) wrapped up a successful KFC Mini-Cricket National Seminar in Limpopo, held from 29 June to 2 July, where coaches and volunteers from across the country gathered to reflect, strategies, and officially launch the 2025/26 season under the rallying theme: “The Legacy Moves Forward”.

With more than a decade of partnership, CSA and title sponsor KFC reaffirmed their shared commitment to making cricket a sport for all where volunteer coaches continue to ignite dreams, foster talent and empower youth through the largest grassroots sports development initiative in the country.

The KFC Mini-Cricket Programme has become a vital launchpad in South Africa’s cricket pipeline, not only introducing the fundamentals of the sport to nearly 120 000 boys and girls annually but also instilling lifelong values such as teamwork, integrity, discipline and confidence.

By anchoring the theme of “the legacy moves forward” CSA positions KFC Mini-Cricket not just as an introductory game for kids but as a platform that cultivates long-term engagement, talent identification and social development. It speaks to CSA’s deliberate effort to ensure cricket is accessible, inclusive and inspiring across all communities, especially historically underserved ones.

One of the key highlights of the seminar was the honouring of 11 retiring coaches and one retired coach from various provinces, each of whom has been part of the programme for between six and 38 years. Their message to the coaches entering the new season was to always carry the legacy forward.

Pholetsi Moseki, Chief Executive Officer of CSA, shared his thoughts on the impact of the seminar, saying: “This seminar marks more than just the start of a new season, it’s about continuing a legacy of opportunity and hope. We are intentionally building a future where every child sees themselves in the game.

“I am humbled by the work done by the many volunteer coaches who give up their time to develop and teach these young learners. Their hard work and dedication does not go unnoticed,” he concluded.

Since 2009, KFC has proudly served as the title sponsor of the programme. Their involvement over the last 16 years goes beyond brand visibility; it’s an investment in the future of South Africa’s youth.

Nolo Thobejane, KFC Chief People and Culture Officer shared her sentiments stating: “16 years ago, KFC partnered with CSA with a bold vision – to create access, ignite dreams and unlock the potential of young children through the KFC Mini-Cricket Programme. At KFC, we believe in feeding children’s potential – that is not just a tagline, it’s a commitment.

“To the coaches, you are not just coaching cricket, you are coaching resilience, you are shaping character, you are building South Africa’s future and today we salute you.

“When we invest in a child, we invest in our future and in our generation. Every ball bowled, every wicket taken, every high-five shared between coach and player matters. It matters because it represents hope and hope in the hands of a child, is unstoppable,” she concluded.

Pholetsi Moseki, Chief Executive Officer of CSA.

Compelling stats

• 2.5-million children have participated in KFC Mini-Cricket since its inception.

• Over 120 00 matches were played in the past season, spanning all 16 cricket unions.

• More than 4 900 schools are currently enrolled in the programme.

• 10 090 volunteer coaches play a crucial role in mentoring and inspiring young players.

• 11 of the 15 current Protea Women’s players began their cricketing journey in KFC Mini-Cricket.

• Beyond the pitch, the programme is shaping resilient, socially aware individuals who are better equipped for educational and professional success. It fosters cross-cultural connections, enhances mental well-being, and promotes national pride through inclusive participation.

Nolo Thobejane, KFC Chief People and Culture Officer.