Incredible play takes place at L.D. Matshego Primary on November 29, 2011.

Last week Stefan and I traveled north to Rustenburg to work with our Life Skills trainers and host tournaments for four different schools. A total of 684 children played in our tournaments while a countless amount of students watched daily from the sidelines. Each day presented us with the opportunity to learn more about each school, interact more closely with teachers and principals and have fun with the participating children. But my fondest memories of the week were the moments when the children became fully absorbed with the sport of soccer. In these moments, you could see firsthand the love of the game.

Every morning began with the same routine: organizing groups of teams in a World Cup-like fashion. But, once the whistle blew, the children were enthralled in the action of their games. You could often see bodies colliding when dozens of players attempt headers on soccer balls that were out of reach. Shoes flying off of kids' feet when trying to strike the ball for a goal. Faces grimacing and yells of frustration when either shots were inches away from scoring or goalies missed a key save. However, once goals were scored, then it was pure jubilation for one side and utter devastation for the other.

The intensity only picked up once the knockout rounds began. Due to the heat of the moment and the day, beads of sweat ran down players' heads as many male players took off their shirts and played in just their colored pullover bibs. Many boys and girls alike would forgo playing in shoes and just keep going in either their socks or barefoot; not even thinking twice of playing on dirt surfaces with few patches of grass and sharp rocks. At this stage, many matches were decided by shootouts that showcased those who could rise above pressure and perform in truly clutch moments that led to award-winning play.

Every day, champions were crowned and achievements were recognized. But, you couldn't erase the smiles off of the children's faces. Like all of our tournaments, every child received a medal. But I could feel their enthusiasm heightened even more once I placed a medal around their neck. It was a feeling that satisfied me and validated my work at the end of each day. My colleague and I were exhausted once we returned to Durban from our weeklong trip but we witnessed firsthand the passion that lies within the sport.

A huge thank you goes out to the following: Lekwakwa Primary School, L.D. Matshego Primary School, Rutanang Primary School, Paardekraal Primary School and our Rustenburg Life Skill Trainers (Buang Mokoatsi, Elsie Nolekwa, Moeketsi Sello and Sello Hlongwane).