Learners from three primary schools came together for an exciting day of sport and friendly competition during a rugby and netball sports day hosted by Laerskool Westgold Primary School.

The event brought together young athletes from Westgold, Laerskool Florida and Laerskool Fochville, creating a lively atmosphere as learners showcased their skills on the field and court. Players from various age groups competed throughout the day, gaining valuable experience while building camaraderie with peers from neighbouring communities.

Young learners shine on the rugby and netball fields

Located on Main Reef Road in West Porges, Westgold regularly hosts sporting and extracurricular activities to develop learners both academically and physically.

Barend Beyleveld, the organiser of the sports day, said the event was inspired by his childhood memories of competing against other schools during pre-season training.

“I felt this was a perfect opportunity to garner support from parents and the community at large to see their children competing in sports. It also helps build relationships with other schools, so this can become an annual event,” he explained. He added that he was very pleased with how the day progressed,” he said.

Barend added that supporters lined the sidelines, cheering on the young athletes, while coaches and educators guided their teams and encouraged good sportsmanship. Matches were played in a competitive yet friendly spirit, with learners demonstrating determination, teamwork, and respect for their opponents.

Sports Day promotes teamwork, discipline and community spirit

Parents expressed their pride in all the learners:

Sabelo Msimango said he was proud not only of his son but of all the boys and their determination. Nonhlanhla Nkabinde echoed his sentiments, wishing the boys the best in their rugby futures. Puseletso Ramuhudi thanked the teachers and organisers for their efforts, while Dineo Malele drove from Pretoria to watch her son play and shared her pride in all the participants.

Rudolph de Bruin, coach of the U13 rugby team at Westgold, said the sports day was a valuable learning experience for his team. They won their first game against Laerskool Florida but lost the second against Laerskool Fochville.

“It’s still pre-season, so we are trying to figure out which combinations work best. Additionally, two of my boys were competing at the athletics district qualifiers, so they couldn’t play today,” he explained.

Barend highlighted the importance of such inter-school events, noting that they promote healthy lifestyles, strengthen relationships between schools and give learners early exposure to competitive sport.

By the end of the day, the fields at Westgold were filled with smiles, handshakes, and celebrations, as players reflected on a day that showcased not only their sporting talent but also reinforced the values of teamwork, discipline, and unity among the three schools.

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