The Discovery School Soccer programme, presented in partnership with the Johannesburg Primary Schools Football Association (JPSFA), the Dynamic Schools Football League (DSFL), Janine Van Wyk (JVW) Diamond League and Gauteng Department of Education, remains one of the most impactful grassroots football ecosystems in Johannesburg, spanning primary and high schools, boys and girls teams - across multiple tournaments.
For the last 16 years, the Discovery Schools Soccer programme has championed healthier lifestyles, getting school children more active and a deep love of sport amongst young South Africans.
As we launch into 2026, a global World Cup year, we kick off this year's programme with renewed energy and excitement to nurture the next generation of football stars. There's no better time to empower young players to dream bigger, train harder and see what is possible when talent meets opportunity.
Here's what young players, their parents, and supporters can look forward to in 2026:
Discovery Boys Festival
The Discovery Boys Festival shines a spotlight on exceptional primary school male talent. Top players from across Johannesburg will be selected to form regional teams who compete over several action packed days.
Following the festival, standout athletes will be selected to represent Johannesburg regions at the Bill Stewart Tournament at the University of Free State.
Details:
- Date: 13 - 15 May 2026
- Teams: Regional squads selected from over 60 schools
- Ages: 13-14
- Format: Festival
- Venue : UJ Sports Complex, Bunting Road Campus
Discovery Girls Festival
Celebrating rising female stars, the Girls Festival brings together the top primary school players from across the city. Teams compete in a showcase of skill, teamwork and potential - reinforcing Discovery's commitment to transforming girls' football from grassroots up.
Following the festival, the JPSFA selects 30 Girls to represent Johannesburg South, Johannesburg North at the Fran Hilton Smith Festival at Camp Discovery at the end of August.
Details:
- Date: 30 May 2026
- Teams: 140 players, selected from over 60 schools across Johannesburg, form 9 regional teams who compete in the one-day festival.
- Ages: 13-14
- Format: Festival
- Venue : Crawford Sandton Preparatory School
Discovery Primary Schools Knockout Cup
A fan favourite among learners, families and supporters, this knockout competition brings together over 128 primary schools in a spirited battle for one of Johannesburg's most coveted school football trophies.
Details:
- Date: 25 June 2026
- Ages:
- Boys: U9-U14
- Girls: U9, U10, U11, U14
- Format: Round robin leading to knockout stages
- Venue : AW Muller Stadium - UJ Sports Complex, Bunting Road Campus
Discovery Boys High Schools Knockout Cup
One of the largest high school football platforms in the city, this tournament continues to grow every year - now featuring thousands of players from dozens of schools. It remains a powerful catalyst for youth development, mentorship and community pride.
Details:
- Date: TBC
- Ages: Boys U14, U15, U16, U19
- Format: Round robin leading to knockout stages
- Venue : TBC
Discovery JVW Diamond League Playoff
Discovery's partnership with the Janine van Wyk Football Club continues to elevate girls' football by giving high school athletes the platform, visibility and confidence they need to pursue the sport seriously.
Details:
- Date: 19 & 20 September 2026
- Ages: Girls U14, U16, U19
- Format: Round robin leading to knockout stages
- Venue : Waterstone College (TBC)
Discovery Alex Schools League
Hosted annually at the 3 Square Sports Stadium in Alexandra, this community driven league has grown into a cornerstone programme for boys and girls aged 13. School educators play a hands on role in coaching and supporting the teams - a powerful example of how football builds community connection.
Details:
- Date: TBC
- Teams: Boys and girls U13
- Format: 7 week league plus finals
- Venue : TBC
More than Football: Building Healthier Futures
The Discovery Schools Soccer Programme is about more than tournaments - it's about building healthier, stronger communities.
By giving young players structured opportunities to train, compete and develop, we help them:
- Build lifelong healthy habits
- Develop discipline, teamwork and leadership
- Access pathways for future participation
- Feel part of something bigger
Sport unites communities. It inspires pride. And in a World Cup year, it reminds us all of the power of possibility.
Want to Get Involved?
Schools interested in participating can reach out to the following tournament partners:
Primary School Tournaments
Johannesburg Primary Schools Football Association (JPSFA)
📧 info@jpsfa.org.za
Boys High School Tournaments
Dynamic Schools Football League
📧 Marius Venter - marius.venter@reddam.house
Girls High School Tournaments
JVW Diamond League
📧 Lauren Duncan - schoolsleague@jvw5.co.za
Let's kick off the 2026 Discovery Schools Soccer Programme - and inspire young South Africans to dream bigger in a World Cup year.