Ashton International College Ballito pupils returned home with silver and gold medals after standout performances at the inter-provincial (IPT) action netball tournament held in Pretoria over the Easter weekend.

Hosted at Centurion Action Sports over five days, from March 31 to April 4, the national competition brought together teams from across the country competing in the U15 to U17 age groups.

The KZN U17A and U17B teams, managed by Ashton parent and Ballito resident Megan Uys – who has completed her Level 1 coaching qualification – advanced to their respective finals after an intense round-robin schedule.

Kerryn Todd, Jana Scheepers and Michelle van Heerden represented the KZN U17A team, which claimed silver after a 27-18 defeat to Western Province in the final.

Emma Hoyle represented the triumphant KZN U17B team, which secured gold with a 28-23 victory over Western Cape Coastal in the final.

Michelle van Heerden’s performances were outstanding, earning her selection to the SA Indoor Netball U19 team.

“I am extremely proud of making the team,” said Michelle, who previously represented the U23 team at just 16 years old.

Michelle said she has worked incredibly hard for years, putting in extra time on training and conditioning, proving that hard work, discipline and dedication pay off.

“I couldn’t have achieved what I have in this sport without the support of my family and coaches, who motivated and supported me,” she said.

Megan said she is incredibly proud of the girls.

“Their teamwork and resilience throughout the tournament was truly exceptional,” she said.

“To see both teams push through to the finals is a testament to their hard work and determination, and securing gold and silver is an incredible achievement.”

Megan also praised head coach Toni Joharie, who prepared the players for the tournament and led them to first and second place.

“I could not have done this without coach Toni by my side, her support played a huge role in this success.”