HIGH-FLYING action marked the start of the KwaZulu-Natal Ringball League which got underway at Hoy Park on Saturday with five teams participating in the fast-paced tournament.

KZN Ringball Federation president Ockie van Schalkwyk said the turnout for the tournament was encouraging and that the future of ringball in the province is filled with promise. “With growing participation, committed leadership and passionate players, ringball can go far,” said Van Schalkwyk.

The five clubs that took part included eThekwini Ringball Club, Umhlathuze Ringball Club, Jaguars Ringball Club, South Coast Ringball Club, and Inkunzi Ringball Club. Van Schalkwyk encouraged more people to sign up for the sport that is open to men and women, starting from the age of 11 up to the over-60s senior level.

“We invite the community to be part of this exciting journey as we build not only competitive teams, but a lasting legacy for the generations to come,” he said.

Also Read: Players invited to join Ethekwini Ringball Club

The over a century old sport is recognised by SASCOC. Its development and growth has however been met with challenges over the years due to limited funding and dwindling support.

“Ringball is one of the few truly inclusive sports where generations compete side by side. It creates a space where experience meets youth, where skills are developed, and where lifelong friendships are formed,” said Van Schalkwyk.

“It can be costly as clubs and participants have to pay out of pocket to attend training and tournaments. Even getting access to proper gear is a challenge in ringball, especially for those coming from rural communities.”

This was echoed by KZN and Jaguars player Zama Mthethwa, who said there are a number of young people in under-developed communities who want to learn and play the sport. “What is preventing them is finance and support, even getting tekkies and transport to training for some of the young players is a problem for us. It is unfair, but sometimes we end up choosing teams based on affordability of the player over skills,” said Mthethwa.

Also Read: Ringball Club open for membership

Ringball is also struggling to gain momentum in eThekwini. The federation has called out for more support for emerging teams which will allow the sport to grow further. Vicki Schoeman from the South Coast Ringball Club described ringball as a mix of netball and basketball and encouraged more schools to add the sport into their extracurricular programme.

“Schools often turn down the sport because they say it clashes with the rules and plays in netball and basketball, affecting the players. But, what we are saying is introduce ringball to the kids that did not make the team but may be interested in trying out for a similar sport,” said Schoeman.

The league is expected to conclude in May ahead of the KZN Team trials. Players selected to represent the province will go on to nationals where they compete against other districts. To find out more or to join the league, contact Schoeman on 083 462 1995.

Also seen at the high-flying and fast paced games:

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