The PSL boss has lauded the positive impact of the Reserve League on the top flight
PSL chairman Dr Irvin Khoza has lauded the DStv Diski Challenge for nurturing budding South African football talents in the last decade.
The PSL Reserve League is celebrating 10 years since its inception in 2014 and stakeholders have reflected on its contribution to the growth of football in the country, especially acting as a conveyor belt for talents to the PSL, and Motsepe Foundation Championship.
“Celebrating 10 years of the Diski Challenge is more than just a milestone; it’s a significant achievement that highlights the deep and fruitful partnership we've built with MultiChoice over the years,” said Khoza.
Orlando Pirates will open the 2024-25 Reserve League
“The Diski Challenge has grown beyond a mere tournament—it has become a conveyor belt for nurturing and developing young talent, serving as the lifeblood of South African football. The many success stories of Diski Challenge alumni, who have gone on to make significant contributions, are a powerful testament to the competition’s lasting impact and importance within our football ecosystem.”
The 2024-25 Diski Challenge will begin on August 31 at the King Zwelithini Stadium with Orlando Pirates taking on AmaZulu, the 2020-21 champions, as they look to improve on their third-place finish of last season while Richards Bay host last season’s runners-ups Mamelodi Sundowns on the same day.
Who are some of the Diski Challenge stars of the past?
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs, who were fifth in 2023-24, will look for a bright start against two-time winners Golden Arrows on September 1, the same day that Royal AM will welcome TS Galaxy, who are now coached by former Bafana Bafana midfielder Bernard Parker and Vuyo Mere.
PSL stars such as Grant Kekana, Percy Tau, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Devin Titus, Jaedin Rhodes and Mfundo Vilakazi are some of the players that have come through from the Reserve League.
