Spirit Foundation

SPORTS
PROGRAMME

The Spirit Foundation Sports programme has several initiatives running across soccer, cricket, rugby, golf and racing. Below are the details.

Spirit International Football Academy (SIFA)

Creating future leaders who will make a positive difference in their communities as both athletes and responsible citizens.

Spirit International Football Academy (SIFA) is a Cape Town-based institution dedicated to discovering and nurturing local football talent. SIFA’s expert team provides world-class training and mentorship in a supportive environment, focusing on both athletic and personal growth. The academy aims to inspire players to become leaders who positively impact their communities. SIFA offers structured, individualised development pathways, equipping athletes with the skills and mindset needed for professional football. Its holistic approach ensures players are prepared for success, whether in top clubs, universities, or local leagues. SIFA’s vision extends beyond sport, fostering responsible, high-achieving individuals.

SIFA’s head of talent is Ian Taylor, a well-known coach in the Cape Town football circles. Taylor also has decades of experience as a player and a coach. To read more about Ian’s experience, click here.

Lord’s Taverners South Africa (LTSA)

Giving young people a sporting chance. 

Established in 2016, Lord’s Taverners South Africa (LTSA), builds on the noble tradition of Lord’s Taverners established in 1950 by a group of English cricketing enthusiasts. Supported by the Spirit Foundation and with the generous commitment of famous veterans of the South African cricket world, LTSA provides a unique opportunity for disabled and physically challenged youngsters from disadvantaged communities to participate in sport and recreation activities that would otherwise be closed to them.

The Lord’s Taverners South Africa uses sport and recreation to enrich the lives of disabled and disadvantaged children and youth through their Table Cricket programme and Mpumelelo Project programme.

This impactful programme is headed up by ex-cricketer, Steve Palframan, Managing Director of Lord’s Taverners South Africa:

Steve played multiple sports, including hockey, squash, and tennis, winning the Senior Doubles Championship with his brother. In 1988, he coached and played cricket in England, then attended Rhodes University on sports bursaries, representing Eastern Province in cricket and hockey. Palframan played for Border from 1991, toured with the South African team, and participated in the 1996 World Cup. He later played for Boland, winning the Standard Bank Cup in 2000 and setting a world record for 8 dismissals in a one-day game. After retiring, he served as a cricket administrator, selector, and club chairman.

Masi Pumas

Life beyond rugby. 

Masiphumelele Rugby Club, a community-based club located in Noordhoek, Cape Town. Our club is composed of young, enthusiastic rugby players who are passionate about the sport and are dedicated to its growth and development.

iCaddies

Uplifting the SA Caddie industry.

iCaddies is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to uplifting the South African caddie industry through long-term, sustainable programmes. They enhance and standardise caddie services across golf clubs by providing management, training, and support. iCaddies manages caddie squads as an outsourced partner, focusing on skill development and life-changing benefits for caddies and their families. Importantly, iCaddies takes no cut from caddie fees, instead relying on fundraising, sponsorships, and advertising for operations. Their goal is to empower caddies to deliver professional services, secure employment, and improve livelihoods. The organisation is committed to making a generational impact on the industry.

Racing Spirit

Driven by purpose, fueled by passion. 

Racing Spirit is a competitive motor racing team, which provides racing opportunities for promising development drivers in their karting programme. The team’s mission includes nurturing young talent, enabling aspiring drivers to develop their skills and advance in motorsport.

To donate to Spirit International Football Academy (SIFA) or Lord’s Taverners South Africa (LTSA), click here. All the other sports initiatives are fully funded by the Spirit Foundation.

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