Girls’ High nets success in Mandela Day Championship

KIMBERLEY Girls' High School (GHS) triumphs at Mandela Day Championship in Barkly West

GHS’s first netball team put on a strong display of talent and teamwork at the recently held Mandela Day Championship in Barkly West.

The event, organised by the National Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, aimed to foster youth participation in sports and encourage healthy competition among Under-19 netball and soccer teams from various municipal regions.

GHS were at the championship as representatives of the Sol Plaatje Municipal district. Their selection was based on their commendable performance in both their schools league and their registration in the competitive Frances Baard senior club league.

The air was charged with excitement as teams from Phokwane, Dikgatlhong, Magareng, and GHS gathered at the sports grounds in Barkly West as teams prepared to showcase their skills in the fast-paced game of netball.

However, GHS was head and shoulders above their opponents on the day, securing victories in all four of their matches. With each match, the team’s unity, coordination, and determination were evident, earning them well-deserved victories in their matches.

GHS’s spectacular performances caught the attention of spectators and organisers alike, who acknowledged the team’s exceptional talent. However, one player in particular stood out. Reabetswe Shuping, a talented Grade 10 learner, was hailed as the ‘Player of the Day’. Her skills and commitment on the court set her apart from the competition, earning her the coveted title.

Speaking after the championship, the champion team’s head coach, Ninelle Jordaan, said that she is very proud of the entire team. “It was a long day, but they showed great sportsmanship and commitment. It makes the long afternoon practises worth it,” she said

The Mandela Day Championship not only served as a platform for fierce competition but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participating teams. It provided an opportunity for young athletes to showcase their abilities and passion for sports while promoting the values of discipline, teamwork, and respect.

As champions of the day, Kimberley Girls’ High School has set a benchmark for other youth teams in the region. Their victory and participation in the championship will hopefully inspire many other young athletes to pursue their passion for sports and continue honing their skills on the field.

Ultimately, the National Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture’s initiative has proven to be a resounding success, encouraging and nurturing the spirit of competition among the youth. The Mandela Day Championship should leave a lasting impact on the participants and further fuel the love for sports in the hearts of the nation’s young talents.