Both teams will participate in the Gauteng LFA Inter-District tournament. Easterns, who are renowned for their good organisation and general strength, will also participate in a pre-tournament tour to KZN.

It’s a tremendous accolade and a wonderful achievement and the club is extremely proud of our future stars – and especially that we are providing the bulk of the U-11’s.

Blackaces.co.za caught up with Tony Dias, the coach of the Black Aces Pre-Academy U-12 team, and he was delighted that so many players had been recognised.

"It’s really a great achievement for our team, who have all worked very hard this year. The players have really developed well this season and they are the future of Aces," said Tony who also mentioned that some of the players were unfortunate to have missed selection.

We asked Tony for some instinctive thoughts of the players that had been selected ...

Alexis - "Brave – technically very good – excellent prospect for the future - recently won the "best keeper" at the club..."

Ilia - "The team captain – outstanding leadership ability who has a terrific shot -scores freely from free kicks and dead ball situations..."

Antonio - "Our right back who is very quick - has a big heart and great attitude..."

Loizo - "Technically sound and very physical – good prospect..."

Liam - "Great dribbler and awesome number 10..."

Christos - "The next ‘Messi’ – fantastic skill – I’m very excited about his future..."

Aces chairman Mario Morfou, was delighted with the recognition and went down to training to personally congratulate the players.

"Well done guys – keep up the training and please remain focused on football. This is your first big step towards much bigger things. Thanks to all the coaches and "big-ups" to all the parents who are the most important cog in a young players development."

For additional photo’s of the occassion, please visit Mpumalanga Black Aces Facebook