HR 57: South Africa National Football Team; competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup; recognize

House Resolution 57EX

By: Representatives Adeyina of the 110th, Stephens of the 164th, Olaleye of the 59th, Cummings of the 39th, Beckles of the 96th, and others

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing and honoring the South Africa National Football Team for qualifying for and competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Georgia join football supporters throughout the world in celebrating the achievement of the South Africa National Football Team, known proudly as Bafana Bafana, in qualifying for and competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup; and

WHEREAS, the Republic of South Africa has long been a leader on the African continent and a respected participant in international sport, with football serving as a powerful force for national unity, social progress, and cultural pride; and

WHEREAS, South Africa made history as the first African nation to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010, showcasing the nation's hospitality, organizational excellence, and commitment to advancing the global game while creating a lasting legacy for football throughout Africa; and

WHEREAS, the South Africa National Football Team has consistently demonstrated perseverance, determination, resilience, and sportsmanship in international competition, H. R. 57EX

inspiring millions of supporters across South Africa, the African continent, and throughout the global South African diaspora; and

WHEREAS, the South Africa National Football Team is supported by the leadership of South African Football Association President Dr. Danny Jordaan and Chief Executive Officer Ms. Lydia Monyepao, whose dedication to football development and sporting excellence has strengthened South Africa's standing within the international football community; and

WHEREAS, under the leadership of Head Coach Hugo Broos and an accomplished technical and support staff consisting of Vincent Tseka, Mninawa Ntloko, Errol Madlala, Grant Johnson, Rendani Manuku, Kebairang Molwantwa, Constintine Mbatha, Tshepo Molobi, Tebogo Dhlomo, Tumelo Kujane, Sinesipho Mali, Simamkele Masiza, Kopano Melesi, Helman Mkhalele, Tinashe-Shingai Mukandatsama, Moleke Sekwati, Qinisekile Maphosa, Bafana Sihlali, Pearl Mosoane, Mxolisi Sibam, and Jack Maluleka, the team has demonstrated exceptional preparation, professionalism, and commitment to excellence; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia values the strong and growing economic, educational, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the United States and the Republic of South Africa, relationships that foster international cooperation, trade, investment, innovation, and mutual understanding; and

WHEREAS, Georgia is home to South African professionals, entrepreneurs, students, educators, healthcare professionals, and families whose contributions enrich the cultural diversity and economic vitality of communities throughout the state; and H. R. 57EX

WHEREAS, South Africa's leadership in business, technology, higher education, tourism, and international commerce has strengthened opportunities for collaboration and partnership with organizations, institutions, and businesses throughout Georgia and the southeastern United States; and

WHEREAS, the South Africa National Football Team proudly competed at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 18, 2026, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, earning a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Czechia and providing an unforgettable experience for supporters from across Georgia, the United States, and the international football community; and

WHEREAS, the presence of Bafana Bafana in Atlanta provided an opportunity for South African–Americans, members of the South African diaspora, and football supporters throughout Georgia to celebrate the rich culture, heritage, and sporting excellence of the Republic of South Africa while strengthening the bonds of friendship and goodwill between South Africa and the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, the participation of the South Africa National Football Team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup serves as a source of pride and inspiration for South Africans and South African–Americans living in Georgia and throughout the United States; and

WHEREAS, the members of the South Africa National Football Team roster, including Ronwen Williams, Thabang Matuludi, Khulumani Ndamane, Teboho Mokoena, Thalente Mbatha, Aubrey Modiba, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Lyle Foster, Relebohile Mofokeng, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko, Sphephelo Sithole, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Iqraam Rayners, Sipho Chaine, Evidence Makgopa, Samukelo Kabini, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Ricardo Goss, Jayden Adams, Olwethu Makhanya, Kamogelo H. R. 57EX

Sebelebele, and Bradley Cross, have demonstrated exceptional athletic ability, discipline, teamwork, and dedication in earning the honor of representing their nation before a global audience; and

WHEREAS, these athletes, coaches, officials, and support personnel serve as ambassadors for the Republic of South Africa and exemplify the values of excellence, perseverance, unity, national pride, and international friendship; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia proudly recognizes the achievements of the South Africa National Football Team and commends its players, coaches, federation leadership, and support personnel for their dedication and accomplishments in representing their nation on the world stage.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize and honor the South Africa National Football Team, President Dr. Danny Jordaan, Chief Executive Officer Ms. Lydia Monyepao, Head Coach Hugo Broos, the coaching and technical staff, and all members of the 2026 FIFA World Cup roster for their outstanding achievements and for proudly representing the Republic of South Africa on the world's greatest sporting stage.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the South Africa National Football Team.

H. R. 57EX