Sporting Legends Trust has appreciation for the past, and a plan for the future

THIS past weekend, the Kimberley Sporting Legends Trust presented a weekend where former cricket players and administrators were thanked and honoured for their selfless contributions to the game and their communities.

However, the chairperson of the Trust, Godfrey Erlank spoke to the DFA recently and explained that this recognition was not just a matter of looking back in appreciation for what happened in the past.

Erlank says that the focus of the Trust is to record the city’s ongoing cricket history. “The event marked the beginning of formally recording Kimberley's rich cricket history, ensuring the legacy of its legends lives on,” Erlank explained. “This celebration honours our legends and keeps their legacy alive for generations to come.”

He said that there was now a forward focus too: “The committee aims to empower the next generation through youth programmes, mentoring, and support, leaving a lasting legacy by sharing skills, knowledge, and resources.” 

Therefore, in the end, the Kimberley Sporting Legends Gala Event was a celebration of the region’s cricketing heritage, honouring the past while building for the future. The event set a high standard for future events, showcasing the community’s collective spirit and generosity. 

Erlank, as chairperson, acknowledged the successes that were achieved thanks to the hard work of the committee and the generosity of sponsors.

Commitment reaffirmed

The Trust’s chairman then outlined and charted the path ahead.

“The Kimberley Sporting Legends Trust has reaffirmed its commitment to honouring the region’s rich cricket heritage while building a future of excellence, opportunity, and character for youth across Kimberley and South Africa,” he said.

“As guardians of a proud sporting legacy, the Trust remains dedicated to preserving cricket history, celebrating the pioneers who shaped the game, and ensuring their contributions inspire future generations.”

He then explained how they would be failing if they did not build on the foundations that their forerunners had established. “Our duty is twofold – to record and honour our cricket history, and to translate that heritage into meaningful development for our youth and our community. 

“We stand on the shoulders of giants, and we are committed to building new shoulders for the generations that follow,” he affirmed.

He then explained that, as far as the Trust is concerned, cricket represents more than competition, as it is a platform for dignity, unity, moral leadership, and opportunity. 

According to the Trust, their purpose and vision, in fact their whole reason for existence is to drive five main initiatives, namely:

• To preserve and document the story of cricket in our community
• To honour and celebrate the heroes who built the game
• To build programmes that develop youth in sport, education, and leadership
• To promote dignity, discipline, and strong family structures
• And to leave a legacy of excellence beyond the boundary

“Through mentorship, youth programmes, community partnerships, and heritage initiatives, the Trust is committed to creating lasting impact,” Erlank said. Adding that, “Legacy is not memory alone – it is action; we honour the past by building the future.” 

For more information or to get involved with this initiative, please contact the Kimberley Sporting Legends Trust by emailing godfreyerlank5@gmail.com or 082 672 1371.