New leadership, same heart: Northern Cape Archery poised for growth

The Africa Genesis Archery (AGA) community in the Northern Cape is entering an exciting new era with the appointment of Philip Kotze as the new Provincial Coordinator. The announcement, made at the AGA-NC Annual General Meeting, marked the end of a dynamic and fruitful term under outgoing coordinator Dawid De Greeff, who has served with distinction since January 2022.

Reflecting on a Period of Growth

Looking back, De Greeff shared heartfelt gratitude for the progress made over the past three years.

“Looking back over the last three years, what a ride it has been! Do you remember where we started at the end of 2021? Look how far we have come from those humble beginnings!” De Greeff said. “I am particularly proud of how quickly we came together to host the 2022 AGA Federation Virtual Tournament at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre. Who could forget the 2024 AGA-SA National Tournament in Kimberley? Many described it as one of the best national events AGA-SA has ever seen!”

He paid tribute to the pioneering clubs and individuals who built a strong foundation, including Adventure Archery Club, Diamond Archery, Artemis Knights, and Boshof Warriors Archery Clubs, as well as instructors, parents, schools, sponsors, and the media. De Greeff also spotlighted the province’s young archers making waves nationally and internationally.

“A special mention must go to our four AGA-SA National Development Team members – Athrah Arnold, Fathima Mustapha, Hezekiah Lodewyk, and Otniel van Wyk – who will represent not only our province but the entire country at the upcoming AGAF World Tournament in Namibia. These talented archers require our collective moral and financial support.”

With De Greeff’s leadership chapter closing, attention now turns to the future under new guidance.

Passing the Baton

“I have complete faith in Philip and his committee, which will be announced soon,” De Greeff said. “They bring new ideas and energy that will propel Northern Cape archery to heights we have only imagined. Please show them the same incredible support that you have shown me.”

Even as he steps down, De Greeff emphasised that his passion for the sport and belief in AGA’s mission remain unchanged.

A New Vision for Expansion

Incoming Provincial Coordinator Philip Kotze brings both humility and clear ambition.

“I see it as a huge honour that the Africa Genesis Archery family in the Northern Cape has placed their trust in me to fulfil this role,” Kotze said. “It is an honour but, at the same time, a challenge to fill Dawid de Greeff’s shoes. Dawid has been such an inspirational leader over the past few years. I wish him all the best with his new role in AGA-SA.”

Kotze believes success will rely on teamwork: “This is not something I can do on my own. I am blessed to have a dynamic team with me that forms the leadership committee of AGA-NC.”

His first priority is to grow the sport’s footprint across Kimberley and beyond.

“I wish to see the sport grow in the current schools and clubs in Kimberley. I'm very excited about the start of Genesis Archery in Kimberley Boys High and ELCON. From here we can start expanding to other regions in the Northern Cape,” he said.

Two newly formed clubs in Boshof, although technically in the Free State, are flourishing under Northern Cape’s wing. Kotze also welcomed Willem Jacobs from Koedoe Boogskiet Club in Orania as District Ambassador – AGA’s first foothold beyond Kimberley within the province.

Looking ahead, Kotze hopes to expand further into towns like Jan Kempdorp, Hartswater, Douglas, and Hopetown, using school partnerships to unlock new opportunities.

Facing Challenges with Strategy and Faith

Kotze is realistic about the hurdles ahead. He highlights the vast distances between towns and strong competition from other school sports as major obstacles.

“The only way to grow our sport is to introduce and demonstrate it at public events and schools,” he explained. The first step will be a competition at the Vleisfees on 13 June at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre, designed to showcase archery to a wider public.

Kotze plans to work closely with Basic Archery Instructors and club coordinators. “They are the champions. I’m merely there to support them and help them find solutions to the challenges they face.”

In a strategic move to strengthen training, Karin Bester from Vooruitsig Primary School has been appointed to head the Coaching and Training Portfolio, focusing on instructor development and youth growth.

Archery with Heart and Purpose

At the core of Kotze’s leadership philosophy is a deep personal faith and a desire to uplift young people.

“Archery is the opportunity that God gives me to make a difference. The opportunity to be God's hands and feet and touch the lives of our youth. That is why I do it – to live out my faith and glorify His name,” Kotze said.

He hopes every young participant in Genesis Archery feels seen, valued, and empowered: “By participating, they are all winners.”

As Northern Cape archery moves boldly into this new era, the community stands united – past, present, and future – ready to aim high and fly even higher.

Support Our Archers: To contribute toward the travel and participation costs for the four national development team archers heading to Namibia, contact AGA-NC or Philip Kotze at 082 651 7989. Every bit helps these young athletes represent South Africa with pride.