Kimberley opens world-class school sports hub with first matches played
Learners from various schools played the first matches yesterday on Kimberley’s brand-new astroturfas the city officially opened its sports hub, with Diamantveld High principal Francois de Kock and Boys High principal Taba Xolile cutting the ribbon. Phase one is complete, and construction now moves to phase two.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Kimberley has officially taken a giant leap in school sports development with the opening of a state-of-the-art sporting hub, the result of a groundbreaking partnership between Kimberley Boys’ High School (KHS) and Diamantveld High School (DHS).
The historic moment was marked when the principals of the two schools, Francois de Kock of DHS and Taba Xolile of KHS, stood side by side on Thursday to cut the ribbon and declare the facility open. Learners from various primary and high schools then stepped onto the brand-new astroturf, where the first official matches were played, bringing the vision to life in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Principal of Diamantveld High School Francois de Kock, and principal of Kimberley Boys High, Taba Xolile are seen during the opening of the new astro turf.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Principal of Diamantveld High School Francois de Kock and principal of Kimberley Boys High, Taba Xolile, are seen cutting the ribbon during the opening of the new astroturf.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Phase One complete, Phase Two ahead
The completion of phase one, which includes the newly unveiled astro hockey turf, is just the beginning. The partnership now shifts focus to phase two, which will add more premier facilities such as a rugby field, swimming pool, cricket fields, squash courts, dugouts, change rooms, and ample parking. Together, these developments are set to transform Kimberley into a true sporting powerhouse.
A legacy of hosting top-tier events
For years, KHS and DHS have been at the forefront of school sport in South Africa, hosting some of the country’s most prestigious tournaments. These include the ABSA Wildeklawer Sports Tournament, the Kovsies Sports Weekend, the Diamantveld Cricket Festival, the KHS Founders Marathon, and football showcases like the Kay Motsepe Soccer Tournament and University Sport SA Champs. The new facilities will further strengthen Kimberley’s ability to attract and host these large-scale events.
More than just sport
The hub is not only about developing elite athletes. With an investment of R160 million, the project promises to boost Kimberley’s economy, create jobs, and support local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to sports equipment suppliers. It will also serve as a unifying space where communities can gather around shared sporting experiences.
A commitment to youth and the future
Perhaps the greatest impact will be on Kimberley’s youth. The hub gives learners access to world-class facilities, encouraging them to pursue sport at a higher level while also teaching teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Primary school hockey clinics and interschool competitions will ensure that talent is nurtured from an early age.
Kimberley’s sporting future
With phase one now a reality and phase two on the horizon, Kimberley’s sporting future looks brighter than ever. The partnership between KHS and DHS is proof of what can be achieved when schools unite for a common purpose, building not only fields and courts but also opportunities, pride, and a lasting sporting legacy for the city.