Grivonne Rhode and Chesterney Fortune from Lavender Hill High School are the first learners to progress through the Mass participation; Opportunity and access; Development and growth (MOD) Programme system and be chosen to represent South Africa at the u/19 Junior Women Soft Ball World Cup in Florida, America.
In 2010, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) conceptualised the MOD Programme. The concept spoke to the philosophy of the 10 000 hours rule, which states that if one practices doing something for 10 000 hours, you will learn to have mastered it over this period of time.
The MOD Programme in conjunction with the Neighbourhood Schools Programme and the Club Creation/Assistance Programme creates this type of access and opportunity, where the learner has the space to practise every day.
For roughly 7 years, from the age of 10, Grivonne and Chesterney have practiced for approximately 2 hours per day, for at least 4 days per week, for 39 weeks of the year x 7 years = 2, 184 hours. In total, they have practised for approximately 1/5 of the stipulated 10 000 hours and this is what they have achieved, already.
DCAS encourages youth to participate in activities at the MOD Centres to gain leadership and life skills. We empower our youth and invest in the role models of tomorrow BETTER TOGETHER.
Dr Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877 / 076 093 4913
E-mail: Tania.Colyn@westerncape.gov.za