From the boxing ring to the rugby and netball fields, Alberton’s sporting community continues to demonstrate that sport is about far more than competition — it is about courage, teamwork, determination and community spirit.

On Saturday, 29 August, the Alberton Boxing Club hosted a spectacular Knockout Event in support of Breast Cancer Awareness, bringing the boxing family together for an unforgettable day.

The event was about more than the battles inside the ring. The crowd heard powerful testimonies from professional boxer Bonita van Jaarsveld, who shared her journey through cancer, and Estelle de Klerk, wife of Alberton Boxing Club Chairman Gert de Klerk, who is currently fighting breast cancer for the second time.

Their stories touched the hearts of those present, leaving many with tears in their eyes. Their courage was a powerful reminder that some of life’s greatest battles are fought far away from the boxing ring.

Then came the fights.

With 27 exciting bouts on the cards, spectators were treated to an adrenaline-filled display of skill, strength and determination. The crowd roared as the boxers gave it all they had. The Mall at Newmarket supported the initiative by providing goodie bags for the event, as well as Mr Price vouchers for Alberton Boxing Club.

The passion for boxing was clear, proving once again that the Alberton boxing family is about much more than sport — it is a community that stands together.

Boxers of Alberton boxing club that participated Saturday at the breast cancer awareness Tournament Luke Sandells, Aiden de Klerk,Davlin Kleinhans, Jacques du Plooy, Hlonepho Mohanoe and Ntando Mnguni

That same spirit can be seen across Alberton’s other sporting codes.

The Mall at Newmarket has once again demonstrated its commitment to the local community through its corporate social investment programme and Derby Day initiative. The mall recently provided valuable support to local sporting teams through sponsorships of clothing, equipment, vouchers, medals and prizes.

The initiative supported both netball and rugby, giving young players additional opportunities and encouragement.

One beneficiary was PNG Flames Netball Club, based in Vosloorus. The club received new netball dresses, Mr Price vouchers, medals and prizes for a netball day held on 10 August 2026.

Coach Banele Khumalo expressed her sincere gratitude, explaining that the sponsorship meant much more than clothing and prizes.

The Mr Price vouchers enabled the club to purchase takkies for some of its less privileged players, ensuring they had suitable footwear to participate.

“It is very expensive to host any tournament, and the assistance made it all possible,” Khumalo said.

For community clubs, support such as this can make an enormous difference. Tournaments come with significant expenses, including equipment, playing kits and prizes. The sponsorship allowed PNG Flames to host its event while giving players the opportunity to participate with confidence and pride.

Support also extended to rugby, with Alberton Hoërskool First XV coach Bobby Mcloud expressing his appreciation for the new rugby jerseys provided to the First XV players.

The school enjoyed an excellent year after choosing to compete in the Valke League Division of the Noordvaal Beker, exposing players to unfamiliar opposition and a different level of competition.

Mcloud believes competing against different teams helps players develop their skills, confidence and ability to adapt. The results were encouraging, with two school teams reaching the quarter-finals and another progressing to the playoffs in the Noordvaal Cup.

The Mall at Newmarket’s support also extended to Alberton High Netball and Alberview Primary School, which received goodie bags for players of the match containing stationery, branded items, water bottles and Spur restaurant vouchers.

These initiatives highlight an important truth: sport has the power to change lives.

It keeps young people active, teaches discipline and teamwork, creates friendships and gives players something positive to work towards. Most importantly, it teaches resilience — the same resilience shown by athletes in competition and by those courageously fighting battles outside the sporting arena.

Whether it is a young netball player receiving her first proper pair of takkies, a rugby player proudly wearing a new jersey, a boxer stepping into the ring, or a cancer survivor sharing her story, each moment represents courage, hope and determination.

A special word of appreciation goes to the Mall at Newmarket team, including Marketing Manager Sihle Makama, for recognising the importance of supporting local boys and girls in their sporting endeavours. Their contribution demonstrates how businesses can make a positive difference beyond their own doors.

And to the Alberton Boxing Club, its fighters, supporters and organisers — congratulations on a successful Knockout Event and for using sport to shine a light on an important cause.

From the boxing ring to the rugby field and the netball court, Alberton continues to prove that when a community stands together, everyone has the opportunity to become a champion.