TS Galaxy’s thrilling Top 8 finish in the Betway Premier Soccer League (PSL) has earned the club more than bragging rights — it’s won the admiration of the Mpumalanga provincial legislature, where political rivals united to honour their resilient campaign.
It wasn’t Mbombela Stadium, but the atmosphere in the legislative chamber on Friday morning had all the energy of a derby decider.
DA leader Bosman Grobler tabled a motion without notice, commending the Rockets for finishing the 2024/25 season among the country’s elite.
The motion passed unopposed, with all political parties putting aside their colours to back the province’s pride.
“We note that despite a series of draws and the recent loss, our soccer team, TS Galaxy, remains in the upper half of the league table,” said Grobler.
“Their balanced goal difference indicates competitive performance throughout the season.”
The legislature’s gesture comes at a time when the Galaxy faithful are morning the death of the mother of founding chairperson of the team, Tim Sukazi.
In more ways than one, their Top 8 finish serves as reassurance that Sukazi has a broader family.
Galaxy’s undeniable grit
TS Galaxy’s final tally — eight wins, 11 draws, and nine losses — secured them 35 points and a seat in the Top 8.
With 30 goals scored and 30 conceded, the Rockets finished the season with mathematical poise and undeniable grit.
Notably, they achieved what the 55-year-old Phefeni club, Kaizer Chiefs, failed to do, which is securing a chance to compete in the 2025/26’s Wafa Wafa MTN 8 cup contest.
Founded in 2015 by Sukazi, a sports lawyer and former football agent, the club is known for its bold business model that prioritises youth development and selling talent.
Coach Adnan Beganovic, who took over after Sead Ramović’s resignation, masterminded a strong finish.
Under his guidance, Galaxy went 13 matches unbeaten at one point, climbing from the depths of the table into the PSL’s upper half.
At their home base, the Mbombela Stadium, Galaxy won six matches, drew four, and lost four — a respectable fortress by league standards.
They also managed to split points with recently crowned Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns, showing they could hold their own against the best in the country.
The Rockets can take a bow
The legislature’s endorsement adds symbolic weight to an already historic season.
While the motion made no mention of Sukazi’s family loss, the timing of the tribute carried a tone of collective respect — not only for Galaxy’s performance, but for the man behind the mission.
TS Galaxy have not only ignited the scoreboard — they’ve set a new standard for provincial representation in top-flight football.
Now, with political leaders cheering from the sidelines, the Rockets can take their bow knowing they’ve done more than just survive the season.
They’ve united a legislature, flown the Mpumalanga flag high, and proven that a team with vision, heart, and hustle can light up the league — no matter the odds.
