Stoke fitness brings back the spark to Collingwood Primary School
Taariq Stokes returned to his old primary school for a fitness day and a farewell soccer tournament for the Grade Seven learners.
LEARNERS at Collingwood Primary School warmly welcomed back former learner Taariq Stokes when he hosted a day of fitness and wellness on November 4, followed by a special Grade Seven farewell soccer tournament on November 7.
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Stokes said the initiative was motivated by his desire to uplift the learners, especially the Grade Seven class, who have been struggling to raise funds for their end-of-year farewell.
“I wanted to do something special for them and give them a great end to their year,” he said.
He added that the gesture was all the more meaningful, considering the problems experienced at the school over the past few years and the devastation caused by the Durban floods.
“I wanted to make a difference in these learners’ lives. After seven years of the school suffering due to the floods, I wanted to give them something to smile about,” he explained.
The programme:
The fitness and wellness day was packed with high-energy exercises, motivation and encouragement, while the soccer tournament brought friendly rivalry to the field. The Grade 7C learners took top honours for the girls, while Grade 7B emerged as champions on the boys’ side.
Stokes added that the experience was deeply personal.
“It humbled me to be able to be a part of the initiative. As small as it was, it meant a lot to me,” he said.
He added that this was only the beginning of what he hoped would be continued positive change, both at the school and throughout the greater community. “As small as our efforts may seem, they will make a difference over time,” said Stokes.
Stokes also gave a special shout out to JAM for their sponsorships in making the football kits which were handed out to the winning classes. “Without the support of JAM, none of this would have been possible.
The staff and learners of Collingwood Primary expressed their gratitude to Stokes for his generosity, leadership and commitment to inspiring young people to believe in their potential.
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