Tana Malinga
Johannesburg has scored a major milestone with the launch of the Field of Dreams, the first full-size football field built in the Joburg CBD in 100 years.
This new sports precinct was created by the Maharishi Invincibility Institute (MII) and Standard Bank, with support from Italtile, BW Cares Foundation, Jozi My Jozi, and driven by former Proteas captain Dr Ali Bacher.
Located near the M1 Selby offramp on land owned by Standard Bank, the Field of Dreams brings top-class sports infrastructure right into the heart of Johannesburg. The facility includes:
A full size football field
Spectator stands
Netball and basketball courts
Change rooms
A clubhouse
For thousands of inner city young people who usually play sport in streets and makeshift spaces, this is a game changing upgrade.
A New Hope for the Inner City
MII CEO Dr Taddy Blecher says the project is a bold investment in Johannesburg’s youth.
“This is more than just a field, it’s belief in our young people,” he said. “Joburg was once known for its gold. Today, the real treasure is the potential of our youth.”
The sports precinct forms part of MII’s vision for Education Town, a large inner city campus where young people study, meditate, learn life skills, play sport and find pathways to employment.
Standard Bank’s Executive Head: Group Real Estate, Nkosinathi Manzana, says the bank is proud to help create a space where education and recreation work together. “This is about growing sporting excellence from grassroots level,” he said.
A Vision Driven by Partnership
The Field of Dreams is the result of strong civic collaboration. Dr Bacher championed the project and helped mobilise partners to turn a once neglected piece of the CBD into a space of safety and opportunity.
“Sport can unite and uplift,” said Dr Bacher. “This field brings dignity and possibility back to the inner city.”
Jozi My Jozi, a movement focused on restoring pride in the city, played a key role. CEO Bea Swanepoel said the project proves what is possible when government, civil society and the private sector work together.
Real Impact Where It Matters Most
Standard Bank emphasises that this is a long term investment in communities that have been underserved for decades. With the inner city youth population growing quickly, formal spaces for sport are urgently needed.
The new facility will host development programmes, social leagues and community events, becoming a vibrant hub for young people from the CBD, nearby townships and surrounding informal settlements.
Investing in Dreams, Not Just Infrastructure
Manzana added: “This is not just concrete and grass. It is an investment in community, confidence and the future of Johannesburg.”
