The talented Fast 5 netball stars at Curro Salt Rock kicked off their season with good performances at Hoërskool Suid-Natal last weekend.

The tournament in Port Shepstone on Saturday morning (August 2), brought together some of the top regional teams from KZN for a day of fast-paced competition.

Despite the early start with travelling involved, Curro’s players brought their A-game to the courts, showcasing teamwork, resilience and skill across all age groups.

Special mention must go to the U16B team who were the only ‘B’ Team to compete in the ‘A’ League. The team won one of their four matches, but the three close-fought defeats were all within a few points.

“It was a remarkable achievement that highlighted their strength and potential,” said school spokesperson, Cindy Carbutt.

Netball Tournament Results

First Team

• vs Gelofte Skool: Lost 5-10
• vs Hoërskool Suid-Natal: Lost 7-11
• vs Kingsway High School: Won 14-3
• vs Port Shepstone High School: Won 14-5

Under 16A

• vs Gelofte Skool: Lost 6-13
• vs Hoërskool Suid-Natal: Lost 8-18
• vs Kingsway High School: Won 13-6
• vs Curro Salt Rock B: Won 9-6

Under 16B

• vs Gelofte Skool A: Lost 5-12
• vs Hoërskool Suid-Natal A: Lost 6-12
• vs Kingsway High School A: Won 9-7
• vs Curro Salt Rock A: Lost 6-9

Zuleika de Lange (1st team), Michelle du Plessis (U16A) and Luca Groenewald (U16B) were voted Players of the Day for their outstanding performances, leadership and their impact on the games.

READ MORE: Strong sporting start to third term for Curro Salt Rock | North Coast Courier

Rugby

While the netball girls headed south, the Curro Salt Rock boy’s rugby teams travelled north for the Hoërskool Richardsbaai 7s Tournament.

The teams faced strong opposition and had a challenging time, but showed resilience and glimpses of promise that will be built on as they prepare for an upcoming tour to Vryheid.

U15 Results

Curro Salt Rock’s U15 side were missing a number of key players and were forced to field several athletes with limited game time.

While the scoreboard did not reflect the boys’ courageous efforts, the tournament provided an opportunity to expose and nurture less experienced players in a competitive setting,” said Curro head of rugby, Sifiso Shabangu.

• Game 1: Lost to Mandla Mthethwa (5-10)
• Game 2: Lost to Pongola Academy (0-30)
• Game 3: Lost to Felixton College (0-38)
• Game 4: Lost to Hoërskool Pionier (0-38)

“Effort and courage never waned,” said Sifiso. “Both are vital ingredients as we aim to rebuild and regroup for the tour ahead.”

U18 Results

Curro’s senior boys also faced stiff competition, playing four highly physical games. Much like the U15s, the U18 squad was short of a few regulars and had to rely on squad depth.

Despite this, the boys showed admirable fight, especially in the narrow loss to Pongola Academy and the well-earned win against Mandla Mthethwa.

• Game 1: Lost to Hoërskool Pionier (5-28)
• Game 2: Lost to Felixton College (14-34)
• Game 3: Lost to Pongola Academy (15-17)
• Game 4: Won against Mandla Mthethwa (21-12)

Standout performances came from Raelyn Govender and Chase Killian, who brought intensity, leadership, and creativity to the side’s efforts.

“Their composure under pressure and ability to spark momentum were highlights of the U18 campaign,” said Sifiso.

Looking Ahead

While results didn’t go Curro’s way, both teams have clear working points to focus on.

“The tournament was an important step in testing our structures, broadening player experience, and sharpening combinations,” added Sifiso.

“With Vryheid on the horizon, the boys are hungry to bounce back, and with continued effort and belief, there is every reason to be optimistic.”

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