Shooting goals and aiming for success
The Grade 7 Yellowwood Park Primary School learner’s talent was first recognised by her coach randomly during a PE lesson, who encouraged her to attend netball practice.
KNOWN for shooting the hoops with accuracy and ease is netball player, Aphiwe Cele.
The Grade 7 Yellowwood Park Primary School learner’s talent was first recognised by her coach randomly during a PE lesson, who encouraged her to attend netball practice.
She started playing netball in Grade 5 and it wasn’t long until she secured her positions of goal shooter (GS) and goal attack (GA).
This year she was made captain and shared her pride in this unforeseen milestone.
“Being announced as captain was very exciting because I didn’t think I would be one. Being a good captain means seeing yourself equal as the other players and nurturing the friendship you share which makes great team work. I am very proud of myself and my growth as a player. When I first started out I used to make a lot of mistakes but now I am much more confident in my game. Now I just need to master the running-step. My coach inspires me a lot. I’ve come a long way and I’d definitely consider playing or coaching netball professionally. It’s my back-up plan. When I grow up I want to be a surgeon and hopefully save enough money to build one or two advanced hospitals in rural areas,” said Aphiwe who shared that her mom is her biggest role model.
Lockdown, unfortunately, disrupted the school sports calendar, resulting in the cancellation of planned netball matches this year. “Not being able to compete in my last year of primary was very disappointing because I really love this sport. I feel like I am less active now since I haven’t been doing netball that much.”
She shared that she did however, enjoy inter-house matches held at the school this year.
The 13-year-old also shines in the classroom, having achieved stellar academic marks. When she isn’t on the court, she also enjoys playing hockey and swimming.
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