A group of Kick4Life student-athletes from Lesotho High School are taking a stand against bullying and discrimination in football as part of their Grade 11 Life Skills project under the theme Human Rights and Child Protection.
The group includes seven passionate learners: Mantheka Maile, Hlompho Lets’oara, Thabo Motsopa, Thabo Molefe, and Sefatsa Monethi, all Kick4Life student-athletes, along with their classmates ‘Masekhola Moriana and Lerato Khorarai. Together, they are using football not only as a game but as a platform for change.
They found that bullying and discrimination in football clubs often come from jealousy, differences in background, lack of empathy, and negative attitudes toward people’s sexual orientation. These behaviours don’t just hurt feelings, they destroy confidence, harm mental health, and can push young players towards isolation, poor performance, or even substance abuse.
Their report states: “Football should be about teamwork and respect, not judgment or exclusion.”
The students believe that clubs and associations must take responsibility by creating safe spaces, educating players, and ensuring that no one is marginalised because of who they are. Coaches and teammates alike have a role to play in building an environment where everyone feels seen and valued.
Their message is simple but powerful: bullying and discrimination have no place in football. Through their project, they hope to inspire social change and encourage every footballer, young or old, to stand up for equality and kindness. For them, true victory isn’t just scoring goals; it’s creating a game where everyone can play freely, with confidence and self-respect.
