Stranded soccer players and coaches return home after emotional ordeal
Formerly stranded in Spain, Aalia Coetzee, third from left at the back, was warmly welcomed by her family at the airport, who were overjoyed to have her safely home.
Image: Marsha Bothma
The final group of soccer players and coaches arrived in South Africa safely yesterday, Thursday, July 24, bringing an emotional end to a stressful ordeal.
Initially, 38 people travelled to Spain to participate in the Donosti Cup. After the tournament ended, 10 returned home on their own, but the remaining 28—mostly children and three coaches—were left stranded without return flights, sparking widespread concern and urgent efforts to bring them back.
The successful return was made possible by a coordinated fundraising campaign. Avukile Mabombo and his wife, Tracey Lange, helped spearhead efforts, along with Christ Church Pastor Dane Mesane and his wife Tersia, Melisha Moodley from Travel Direct, and TAAG Airlines, among others.
“Tracey saw the post and raised the alarm,” said Mr Mabombo. “We weren’t the organisers, just a vessel to bring the right people together. The real work was done by the community. People gave what they could—some didn’t have money but still found ways to help. This proved the power of unity in a time of crisis.”
When the Plainsman arrived at Cape Town International Airport on Thursday, the atmosphere was electric. Friends and family were already gathered, holding balloons and handmade posters in anticipation.
Some of the mothers at the Cape Town International Airport moments before their children arrived on Thursday, July 24.
Image: Marsha Bothma
As the group came through the arrivals gate, many parents rushed forward, overwhelmed with emotion, hugging and crying as they reunited with their children.
Lee-Ann Hartman, 38, from Stellenbosch, said the experience had been deeply traumatic. "I cried so much during this time. My son was in another country, and I had no idea when or how he would return. Seeing him again brought more tears-but this time, tears of joy," she said.
Cindy Theunissen from Heideveld welcomed her son, 18-year-old Ozayah Greckwa.
Grandson, Michael reunited with his grandmother Mary-Anne Van Der Heever on Thursday July 24.
Image: Marsha Bothma
“Justice must take its course after this. I’m just so relieved my son is home. Throughout the ordeal, he kept reassuring me that he was okay—he always had a smile on his face. I’m grateful to Tracey Lange, her husband, the donors, and all South Africans who helped bring our children back,” said Ms Theunissen.
Grandfather Aziz Johnson from Rocklands said, “We are finally glad this ordeal is over. It has been a traumatic experience and a valuable lesson. We want to thank the coaches, especially coach Jesse, who took great care of the children, including supporting them financially.”
Grandmother Mary-Anne Van Der Heever from Bellville embraced her 17-year-old grandson with tears in her eyes.
“It’s indescribable. We’re still angry, and we have many questions—some of which may never be answered. But we will not let this go. This situation didn’t just affect us; it affected all our children,” she said.
Coach Jesse and his mother embracing one another after his return on Thursday July 24.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Coach Jesse Julius said the real heroes were the parents, supporters, donors, and the people of Cape Town and South Africa.
“I’m grateful the children are home with their families. What the enemy meant for harm, God used for good. As coaches, we stuck together and focused on what mattered—getting the kids home. Now, we’ll take the next steps.”