Small players, big moments as Newton Primary hosts the MH Office Kortvolkdag

A sun-soaked weekend of sport, smiles and school spirit unfolded at Newton Primary School, where the much-loved MH Office Kortvolkdag once again brought together Under-9 rugby and netball teams for a festival of youthful energy, camaraderie and community pride.

Held over May 16 and 17, the event – now in its 32nd year – once again proved to be a highlight on the local primary school sports calendar. The courts and fields echoed with laughter, encouragement and determined cheers as young athletes gave their all in front of proud parents, teachers and supporters.

The event was proudly sponsored by MH Office Machines, who have become synonymous with the Newton Kortvolkdag. What sets this partnership apart is not just the longevity of the relationship but the heart behind it.

Company Director Marius van Staden Jnr, himself a former Newton Primary learner, has taken this initiative personally, seeing it as a way to uplift his old school and the broader community.

“Our support of the Newton Kortvolkdag goes beyond sponsorship – it’s a heartfelt commitment to education, youth development, and community unity,” Van Staden says. “Watching these children grow in confidence and character through sport is deeply rewarding.”

MH Office Machines' contributions help cover the event’s expenses, which in turn allows Newton Primary to redirect savings into educational resources for their learners – a win-win approach that aligns with the company’s values of investing in people and potential.

The Origins of Kortvolkdag

The term “Kortvolkdag” loosely translates to “short people’s day” – a light-hearted nod to the age group of participants. But the impact is anything but small. What began more than three decades ago as a modest gathering has grown into a well-supported showcase of young talent.

MH Office Machines, founded in 1983 and led by Directors Marius van Staden Snr and Marius van Staden Jnr, has built a reputation as one of the country’s most reliable office solutions providers. Their investment in the Kortvolkdag is part of their broader mission to give back and build up.

On the Field: Rugby Results

The young rugby teams brought flair, tenacity and plenty of try-scoring action to the fields. Laerskool Oranje Noord were dominant across both A and B fields, showing exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship.

A Field Highlights:

• Newton beat Pescodia with a 50-0 win.
• Fanie Malan impressed with a 30-0 win over Eureka.
• Oranje Noord delivered a commanding 49-0 victory against Staats and 56-0 against Eureka.
• In a tightly contested match, Newton edged out Fanie Malan 12-10.

B Field Highlights:

• Oranje Noord continued their dominance, beating Jacobsdal 48-0 and Pescodia 54-0.
• Newton showed grit but fell narrowly short in two tight matches: 12-14 against Jacobsdal and 5-7 against Staats.
• Jacobsdal bounced back with a 50-0 win over Pescodia.

More than just scores

Yet the true spirit of Kortvolkdag was found not in the numbers, but in the moments: the high-fives, the team huddles, the proud smiles of parents and coaches, and the quiet courage of children stepping onto the field for the first time.

Thanks to the enduring support of MH Office Machines, Newton Primary’s Kortvolkdag continues to build character, community, and cherished memories.

As the final whistle blew and medals were handed out, one thing was clear: the future of local sport – and local pride – is bright.