‘Sport for lives’ by Halalisani Shoba
We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that not all learners will excel academically but there are those who do well also in sports.
Last week I had a chance to go through the speech of MEC, Hlengiwe kaMavimbela as she was allocating the budget under the department of Sports, arts, and culture here in Kwa-Zulu Natal. She presented a budget of R1.4 billion and above, that is meant to focus on the economic upliftment of sports and recreation. R1.4 billion, that is a lot of money, only if the funds will be used accordingly. I was so thrilled when the MEC mentioned something about “re-introducing sports activities and also the idea of improving the sports facilities in schools”.
We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that not all learners will excel academically but there are those who do well also in sports. So it is only fair that they get the platform at a young age because I believe in sports to change the lives of those passionate about it. Even community leaders must invest their time in making sure that they improve sports facilities in their respective areas, and such facilities must be protected at all times against the barbaric acts of vandalism. I’m mentioning vandalism because I strongly believe that, such an act should be associated with some mental illness. Why would you vandalise and be against the idea of social progress? I mean it cost millions of rand to build and maintain those facilities.
Here I am appealing to the people who are directly involved with sports activities around Dundee town. I know there are many who need sponsorship and attention but every time I pass by Beaconsfield street, I always notice a group of young and old men by the corner of the street with their chessboards. I don’t know what is their agenda right there but at some point, I use to enjoy the chessboard. You cannot just play chess for fun, I highly respect chess players. So I wish people who are directly involved with sports in that area could intervene, perhaps with more chess boards or at least a proper shelter where those pupils can freely exercise their minds.
Again, I guess it was a great weekend for the people of KwaZulu Natal, especially to the faithful football community, as Richards Bay Football Club did an exceptional job by winning the GladAfrica Championship and automatic promotion. As it stands, it means our province will now be represented by 5 professional soccer teams in the 2022/2023 DSTV premiership campaign. Congratulations to Richards Bay football club.
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