Scottsdene MOD Cluster Offers Youth Sporting Opportunities

On Saturday, 28 November 2015, Western Cape Premier Helen Zille, Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Anroux Marais and Minster of Education Debbie Schäfer launched the Scottsdene Mass participation; Opportunity and access; Development and growth (MOD) Cluster at Bernadino Heights Secondary School.

The cluster boasts with upgraded sporting facilities, which offer learners from Cavalleria, Parkdene and Watsonia Primary Schools, and Bernadino Heights and Scottsdene High Schools the opportunity to develop their sporting talents. Some of the upgrades include a new athletic track and astro-turf hockey surface. As part of the launch of the facilities, learners from the surrounding schools played rugby, hockey and netball and ended the day with sprint races.

During the opening of the facility, Minister Marais emphasised the fact that the community should ensure that the facilities are well looked after: “These facilities belong to Scottsdene and we want every member of the community to take pride in the facilities and to ensure that children get the chance to develop their talents. We need the community to take ownership and help to keep the facilities from being vandalised and broken.” she said.

Premier Zille said that sport plays a big role in giving young children something constructive to do. “Sport gives children the opportunity to be part of a team, rather than being part of a gang. We must encourage our children to take part in sport.” she said.

The Western Cape Government supports communties by providing facilities for young people to take part in sport and to stay away from social ills. Communtiies should take ownership of the facilities and encourage the youth to participate. Let us develop and support our young people BETTER TOGETHER.