POLOKWANE – Flora Park Comprehensive High School is revamping its netball courts and soccer fields through a grant from the National Lotteries Commission.

Principal Joseph Ntsiene Masekela said the school’s facilities were previously in poor condition, and there were no funds available for repairs.

“Our soccer fields and netball courts were not in good condition, and the school did not have the money to fix them. We approached the National Lotteries Commission and wrote a letter requesting assistance with upgrading the facilities,” he said.

Upgrade project nearing completion

The upgrade project began in March and is now at 75% complete. Masekela said the improvements will help the school maintain its strong track record in sport.

“Those grounds will not be a white elephant; they will be used by the learners because they are committed to sport.

“The school has produced learners who have represented the school at national level,” he said.

Gratitude for funding support

Masekela expressed gratitude to the National Lotteries Commission for awarding the grant, acknowledging that many other schools are also in need of similar support.

“It is an honour for our school to be considered. We also hope to receive the same consideration in future when we request another grant because we really need it,” he said.

Need for additional soccer fields

With a learner population of 1 491, Masekela added that one soccer field is not enough to cater for all the school’s teams.

He expressed hope that the school will eventually secure funding to develop at least two additional soccer fields to meet growing demand.