Keeping youngsters out of the street and into sport

POLOKWANE – “Young people face challenges of substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and unemployment every day, but to support and motivate them not to give up and succumb to these evils of society, I train them in sports,” Rowenda Wessels said.

The 47-year-old Westenburg resident started the Energetic Netball Club in 1999 with the motto to get children out of the street and into sport.

“There is nothing in our community to keep our young people busy and I think that is why most of our children use alcohol, drugs and sometimes get involved in criminal activities.

“My goal with the Energetic Club is to keep children busy so that they are less on the street, but also to motivate them not to give up on their dreams. Also to show them there is a future for them no matter what their circumstances,” Wessels said.

Over the years Wessels expanded the Energetic Netball Club into a soccer and hockey team as well.

“”The netball girls travelled to Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Cape town and Kimberley where they participated in several championships. We won a few titles and I was proud when I saw the excitement on the children’s faces when they got the opportunity to see other places outside Westenburg and also to meet new people. As time passed I realised that there is a need for other sports codes in our community and that is when I started the hockey and soccer teams,” Wessels explained.

Wessels not only trains the children in the different sporting codes, but also participates with them. She plays netball, soccer, and hockey and is part of the Westenburg Pom-pom Girls.

“I believe one must lead by example and by practising with the children I build a relationship of trust and we bond as a family. I am not just their coach, but a mother, sister, and friend.

“The children trust me, and ask me for advice and guidance on issues like peer pressure, sex and substance abuse. The fact that the children feel free to talk to me is important because when they are faced with life challenges I can advise and guide them,” Wessels said.

The teams also participate in the annual Westenburg Easter Sports Festival, which is very popular in the community during the Easter weekend.