THROUGH the Small Projects Foundation’ (SPF) sport programme, the Newlands schools rugby and netball teams received their new kit sponsored by Kistefos last week.
Pic: MADELEINE CHAPUT
The rugby team, made up of players from Nxaruni Primary, Mzonkeshe Primary and Makunga Primary, went on to play in the Richard Kent U11 Rugby Tournament last weekend.
The Newlands Schools team played some of the best teams in the Eastern Cape, including teams from Dale, Handhaaf and Gonubie Primary. “We want this team to be able to soar and by providing them with a full kit, equipment and transport, they are able to compete against other city schools with pride,” project head, Hilton Williams said.
SPF have been running this rugby and netball programme for one-and-a-half years in Newlands and are seeing wonderful and uplifting results.
“This is such a big step forward. We can see the change in our learners,” team coach and Makunga Primary School principal, Herbert Sebetsmu, said.
Williams said since the project was implemented, academic results have improved significantly. “Sport opens the doors for so many disadvantaged pupils from rural and township schools. It teaches valuable life skills they cannot always get in the classroom,” Williams said.
Mzonkeshe Primary School principal, Leonard Litye, said: “Last year SPF also organised many festivals for our U11 team. The kids really enjoy it and we are over the moon that they get this opportunity”.
The Newlands school team performed well last year and all three principals are very proud of the team’s achievement. “They are good players and this year we are looking to start an U13 team as well,” Sebetsmu said.
As part of the sport programme, the SPF are also planning to introduce mini cricket as another co-curricular sport for the school.
“It’s really exciting. We are so happy that SPF have helped us and allowed us to offer our learners these opportunities,” Nxaruni Primary School principal, Thembinkosi Bodoza, said.
The U11 Newlands Schools team went on to win their final match on Saturday, beating Kuswag Primary 14-0.
“These youngsters embraced the opportunity and after a few practices, played like champions,” Williams said.
