LIMPOPO – Gravelotte Primary School’s netball team, the Gravies, made history when three of its players were selected to represent the cluster in the next netball trials, which will be held at Dr Annecke Primary School in Letsitele on Thursday, April 24.

The selection process took place on Wednesday, March 19, during the highly competitive netball trials at Laerskool Mariepskop in Hoedspruit, where over 70 talented players from different age groups in various schools competed for a spot.

Only 21 players per age group were selected, and the Gravies proudly contributed three athletes to this prestigious list. Ofentse Mashilani and Basani Mushwana will represent the u/13 team, while Nyiko Baloyi has secured a place in the u/12 team.

The team’s coach and head of netball, Ayonda Ceko, expressed her excitement about the girls’ achievement. “I feel very excited about their performance, especially since we had a very late start to the season. However, within two weeks, I saw a lot of improvements,” she said.

Ceko, who recently began her coaching journey at Gravelotte Primary School, highlighted the dedication and enthusiasm of the players.

“Even though Gravelotte Primary School has existed for many years, I recently started my journey with them as coach and head of netball. Today marks exactly a month of working with the girls. I cannot say much as of right now as we still have a lot of work to do, but the girls are very eager and passionate about the sport,” she added.

She also acknowledged the crucial role played by the school’s acting principal, Shilla Hlungwane, and the sports committee in supporting the team. “The extreme support from the acting principal, Shilla Hlungwane, has made everything so easy. Her love and passion for the learners have lightened my load. Thanks to her and the whole sports committee,” Ceko expressed.

Acting principal Hlungwane also shared her pride in the team’s success.

“I’m beaming with pride as I see our netball girls thriving despite the challenges of 2025. Their dedication, passion, and willingness to adapt to their new coach are truly inspiring. I would also like to extend a special thank you to coach Ayonda for her exceptional work in such a short period. Her guidance and expertise have made a significant impact on our team’s growth. To the parents, I am grateful for your unwavering support throughout this journey. I am excited to see these talented young women flourish, overcome obstacles, and emerge victorious,” she said.