REBUILDING and strengthening sporting culture in Amanzimtoti, carving out pathways of opportunity for young talents and bolstering school sports. That is the bold and audacious goal of Sports Leap Africa Rugby Skills Academy, which will start in January next year.

Also read: Action-packed Uhuru Rugby Festival held in Amanzimtoti

Previously known as Konke Sports SA, founders Muzombwe Rashidi and Owen Masinga successfully hosted the Uhuru Rugby Festival in Amanzimtoti for four consecutive years.

The academy will focus on children aged seven to 14, equipping them with the basic building blocks of rugby, increasing community involvement and helping retain talent in high schools.

“Our goal is to rebuild the strong sporting culture Amanzimtoti was once known for. We understand that not every child will remain here as some may pursue opportunities in Durban-based schools, however, by nurturing those who stay, we believe we can produce exceptional talent from our area,” said Rashidi.

He said that his own rugby journey was sparked from a chance encounter with Nathan Pillay, the director of sports at Durban High School, who was teaching at Penzance Primary School at the time.

“He saw potential in me that even my dad did not and convinced him to let me give rugby a shot. What a shot it was. That opportunity opened doors to some incredible mentors and coaches who not only taught me the game but also supported me through highs and lows,” said Rashidi.

Also read: Sprucing up the environment around Amanzimtoti Sports Centre

He added that he is thankful to have had the guidance of exceptional coaches who share in his vision of growing the game and giving back to the community.

“As I am now a coach myself and play in the Amanzimtoti community, I am convinced that our children have the potential to excel in rugby. With the right guidance and opportunities, they can achieve great things,” he added.

Plans ahead

Under the new banner of Sports Leap Africa, Rashidi is excited to announce the Uhuru Sports Festival, which will be hosted at Amanzimtoti High School from March 28-April 1 next year. The expanded festival will include an U19 netball tournament running alongside the rugby event, offering yet more young athletes a platform to showcase their talent.

“As part of this initiative, we are also seeking to formalise partnerships with local businesses who believe in youth development and community upliftment. Should any organisation or business in our community be interested in supporting or partnering with us, we warmly encourage them to reach out,” said Muzombwe.

For more information, contact Muzombwe on 082 569 6739 or email sportsleapafrica@gmail.com.

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