Alberton can be proud of the outstanding performance and sportsmanship displayed by the Hoërskool Marais Viljoen High School first netball team at the recent Absa Wildeklawer Tournament in Kimberley.

Competing against 13 other top schools in the highly competitive U19 division, the team not only held their own on court but also stood out for something even more meaningful: their unity.

The side was named the team with the best spirit at the tournament, a recognition that reflects players’ and coaches’ unity and teamwork and also a reflection of the togetherness at the school.

The tournament saw Marais Viljoen play eight matches, securing four wins and one draw.

Their results included:

Marais Viljoen 29-23 Potchefstroom Gimnasium

Marais Viljoen 12-12 La Rochelle (draw)

Marais Viljoen 12-16 Affies

Marais Viljoen 14-10 Oranje Meisies

Marais Viljoen 18- 9 Framesby

Marais Viljoen 9-17 Paarl Gimnasium

Marais Viljoen 13-19 Paarl Girls’ High

Marais Viljoen 14-12 La Rochelle

Their performance earned them a spot in the position playoffs (5–8 bracket), where they battled tough competition. In a tense final placement match, they secured a hard-fought victory over La Rochelle to claim seventh place overall.

“Our first netball team took part in the extremely competitive tournament where 14 schools competed,” the school said in a statement.

“Marais Viljoen showed their mettle and played against some of the best netball schools in the country, with true perseverance and Marais spirit. Finishing among the top seven schools nationally is a significant achievement.

“You have shown that success is not only about results, but also about respect, support for each other and the way you carry the Hoërskool Marais Viljoen name with pride,” the school added. The team’s achievement highlights not just talent, but character that continues to make Alberton proud.