New Sport Facility Brings Joy to Learners in Gugulethu

A school-based multipurpose sport court was opened at the Nobantu Primary School in Gugulethu on 5 May 2014. Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) partnered with the school, the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), the Western Cape Education Department and the Sports Trust to make this facility possible.

The R1 million court has a 20-year lifespan and 15-year warranty. Its interlocking tiles provide a high level of “lateral forgiveness”. This design helps to cushion impact on players’ joints, making sport safer, particularly for young people. An environmental audit has certified the court’s “Zero Waste” status. This is in line with the Sports Trust’s “green” policy of helping to protect the environment in its work. Sporting codes to be played on this court include five-a-side soccer (futsal), netball, basketball, tennis and volleyball.

Anita Matthews of the Sports Trust praised the partners for their ongoing efforts to enhance education through sport. She said the facility will be an integrated hub where the whole community can take pride in participating in sport.

Principal Linda Appolis says the school is confident that the facility will be a bedrock for future sport achievers and leaders in Gugulethu. “The court will be shared so that other schools in the area, as well as local sport clubs, can benefit. We are grateful for this facility.” Siphosethu Mzwathali (13), who plays soccer, said the facility has brought joy to learners. “We can now take our sport to another level,” he said.

Thabo Tutu of DCAS added that the facility demonstrates the support of partners for linking physical exercise, mental equilibrium and a good quality of life for the people of the Western Cape. “Quality infrastructure and programmes like these are essential for leaving a lasting legacy in communities.”