The keys to the Isaak Steyl Stadium, located on the campus of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) in Vanderbyl Park, was the first to be officially handed over. This stadium will be the training base for the Swiss soccer team during the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

In attendance were representatives from the Ivory Coast and from Switzerland, the Vice Chancellor of VUT, Prof. Moutlana, the Executive Mayor of Sedibeng District Municipality, Cllr. Mahole Simon Mofokeng, the Sedibeng District’s MMC for Sport, Mluleki Nkosi, the Mayor of Emfuleni, Cllr Assistance Moshudulu, and other officials from the District and the university.

Students from the university performed cultural dances as the guests arrived. A Grade 11 learner from Mohloli Secondary School read out a moving poem she had composed about 2010.

The delegation then proceeded on to the George Thabe Stadium where the Ivory Coast team will be training. They were welcomed by learners from the Emmanuel Primary School as they performed the Diski Dance, much to the delight of the delegation. Once the grounds and change rooms had been inspected, the keys were handed over.

Says the Executive Mayor of Sedibeng, Cllr Mahole Simon Mofokeng: “The handover of the stadiums on Saturday represented another step forward for our preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

“Sedibeng is playing a unique role in the 2010 FIFA World Cup: we are the proud hosts of the soccer teams from the Ivory Coast and from Switzerland. They are staying here, in this District which is a home of soccer greats and where the passion for soccer could not be more fervent.”

The world class facilities at the Emerald Resort will be enjoyed by the Swiss team and the Ivory Coast team will be residing in the stunning environs of the Riverside Hotel.

“Together with the Emfuleni, Lesedi and Midvaal local municipalities, the Sedibeng District Municipality has worked hard to prepare our places, spaces and people for the 2010 FIFA World Cup spectacle.