MOD Centre Learners Enrolled at Western Cape Sport School

Eleven excited learners will begin 2014 with a passion to excel on the sports field and in the classroom at the Western Cape Sport School in Kuils River. On Thursday, 28 November 2013, they were honoured by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS), the Western Cape Education Department and the Western Cape Sport School.

All 11 have been participants in the Mass participation, Opportunity and access, Development and growth (MOD) Centres in their communities. The DCAS MOD programme recently won the Best Project: Mass Participation award at the National Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Kamoso Awards (Social Sector).

Alseq Beneke, Stephen Tabisher and Cameron van der Scholtz (from Tuscany Glen Primary School), Gershwin Esau (Stratford Primary), Suleiman Adams and Lacalle Benjamin (Downeville Primary), Bradwin Josephs (Groenberg Secondary), Vuyolwethu Bili (Buren High), Lorenzo Adams and Ashton Daniels (Willensvalley Primary) and Nathan James (Helderkruin Primary) were selected for enrolment at the elite sport school.

The Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Dr Ivan Meyer paid tribute to these emerging athletes, adding that although they will be away from their families for some time, they will not be alone. “This is an exciting chapter in your life where you will make new friends and be inspired to work toward your goals. We’re confident that you will live the values of the school and represent the Western Cape well wherever you go.”

Principal Mr Shaheed Khan said the school is committed to identifying talent and using sport and education as a vehicle to better lives. “Not only will we be focusing on developing your sporting skills, but your academic skills as well. We will strive to create an environment where you, as our champions, can flourish. We hope you will adopt the culture of respect on and off the field,” he told learners.

The school boasts sport excellence in a number of categories. 48% of the current learners at the school have attained provincial sports colours. Sport School learners Tezna Abrahams (Aquatics) and Tamzin Thomas (Sprint running) are notable athletes who have represented South Africa at international events.

Netball player Vuyolwethu Bili is looking forward to experiencing the sporting culture at the school next year. “It’s a dream come true for me. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I’m looking forward to work with my new team-mates and coaches and to always give my best.” These achievements show that DCAS MOD centres are making a difference in the lives of many young people.