Latest news with #SaintsSportsFest
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Dunvegan Primary unveils new multi-purpose sports courts
Dunvegan Primary School officially opened its multi-purpose courts on May 24. The event was held in conjunction with the school's open day and its winter sports day, which featured soccer and netball. The school's deputy principal, Graeme Mitchley, said having an open day on the same day was 'great' for the parents visiting the school to witness all the activities. ALSO READ: Local sportswoman breaks barriers in cricket umpiring The school previously had three netball courts, but they were in poor condition. 'We've also decided to incorporate the official opening of the multi-purpose courts on the day. We were considering either resurfacing them or providing courts that could be used for multiple sports — that's why we call them multi-purpose courts. 'We also wanted a different surface to allow for various line markings. 'These courts are now suitable for netball, soccer, and hockey, and can also be used by the learners for PE during the day,' said Mitchley. The three courts will now serve multiple functions. Additionally, the previous netball courts didn't have fencing around them. With the new fencing, the courts now allow proper games to be played safely. The earlier courts lacked sides or netting, but with the new improvements, three teams can simultaneously play on the courts. Richard Laidley, the school principal, said sport at school level was crucial. 'It's about developing the whole child, not just one aspect such as culture or academics, but all of these together. Sport adds that extra element. 'The multi-purpose courts also have the advantage that even if they get wet, players can still utilise them. Grass can become too wet to play on, but these courts remain usable all year round.' ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang The revamp of the courts was made possible through school fees paid by the parents. 'I think it's nice for the parents to see their money being well spent. For me, the most important thing is that these courts will benefit every single child at the school, from Grade One to Grade Seven,' added Mitchley. The School Governing Body chairperson, Khakhu Muthaphuli, described the event as a flagship day for the school. She said this is something the school looks forward to every year. 'New parents who have heard about Dunvegan are curious and fascinated. They come to our open day, walking the grounds and asking questions. Sometimes I join in to see the vibrancy and curiosity. 'The school has a very good reputation — it is well-maintained and well-run, which we are very proud of,' said Muthaphuli. ALSO READ: Development rugby takes centre stage at Saints SportsFest day 4 'This day is very significant because we are also officially opening our multi-purpose courts. We hope there will be plenty of games, many memories made, and friendships built here. 'Across this whole field, there are over six sporting areas available, and we are very proud of that. As parents, we are proud of the teachers and management of the school, as well as our learners,' she added. She also thanked the parents for their contributions. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
13-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Diggers outplayed by ruthless Wits attack
The Diggers Rugby Club senior team faced a tough afternoon on their home ground as they were outclassed by Wits University's senior side, who walked away with an emphatic 85–7 victory on the day. From the opening whistle, it was clear that the visitors meant business, applying early pressure and taking full control of the game. Read more: North Riding rugby star shares recovery tips Wits were quick to make their mark, scoring two converted tries to take a 14–0 lead within the first few minutes. Their attacking play was swift, sharp, and difficult to contain. Diggers struggled to keep up with the pace, often caught off guard by Wits' well co-ordinated movements and quick passes. The standout performance of Wits' left lock Kgoposto Matlena, who scored two quick tries, widened the gap even further. Diggers had no response to the visitors' smooth and structured gameplay. By halftime, Wits were firmly in charge, with a 28–0 lead. The second half followed the same pattern, with Wits picking up right where they left off. Their right centre Keith Chirwa added two more tries to his name as Wits' attack continued to slice through the Diggers' defence. At one point, the scoreboard showed a staggering 71–0 in favour of the visiting side. Spectators could be heard chanting, 'Give us 90!', reflecting the confidence and excitement surrounding the dominant performance. Wits full back Latica Nela commented on the teams performance. 'For the first time in a while it was a good, holistic performance. Of course, it was a bit of a loose game and I think we adapted to that. We would still like to see the boys put in a bit of structure against the bigger teams.' Though the match was clearly beyond their reach, Diggers kept pushing and were finally rewarded with a consolation try. It was a small moment of joy in an otherwise forgettable outing. The match ended 85–7, a result that will likely prompt some serious reflection within the Diggers camp. Also read: Heronbridge College rugby star eyes professional career path Diggers' first team rugby coach Kane Mavrodaris expressed his disappointment with the team's performance. 'We knew we were the underdogs going into this game, and it felt like we didn't deal very well with their ball movement. We didn't trust each other on defence and let each other down a little bit' For Wits, the match was a clear display of their attacking depth, fitness, and discipline. Their ability to control the game from start to finish made it one of their most commanding performances yet. As for Diggers, they will look to regroup, learn from their mistakes, and come back stronger in their next fixture. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! Related article: Development rugby takes centre stage at Saints SportsFest day 4 At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
03-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Talented twins make Gauteng netball team
Constantia Kloof — Dynamic duo Gracia and Michelle Ojiadazie were selected for the U13 Gauteng Netball Team and will participate in the upcoming South African Schools Netball (SASN) All Ages Tournament at Hoërskool EG Jansen at the end of June. The senior players have proved themselves on the court, competing against other players in both the D12 district and inter-district trials where they competed outside their comfort zone. ALSO READ: Development rugby takes centre stage at Saints SportsFest day 4 The head coach at Constantia Kloof Primary School, Adri van Wyk, praised the girls for their consistency during the trials, practice sessions and league matches, also adding that the girls have the potential to play in a higher performance league. 'I started coaching the girls at U11, and I have seen so much progress, both physically and mentally. 'There is still a lot of work to be done, but with the current league matches taking place and added training sessions for the Gauteng team, this can help them prepare for the upcoming tournament. Their teammates are so excited and super supportive,' said Adri. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
28-04-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Horizon Karate Centre earns 77 medals at provincials
Horison — The Horizon Karate Centre is riding high after a stellar performance at the provincial championships that took place at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg. The team secured a total of 77 medals and set the stage for their upcoming participation in the SA JKA National Championships. Among the medal tally, Horizon's members claimed 34 gold, 19 silver, and 24 bronze. Notably, 12 of the gold medalists achieved double golds, showcasing exceptional versatility and dominance in their respective categories. ALSO READ: Saint Stithians' Saints SportsFest closes with a bang 'We have worked incredibly hard as a team, and it has all paid off. I am incredibly proud of every one of our students,' said Sensei Wendy Wannenburg (6th Dan). 'This success is a testament to their commitment and the spirit of our dojo.' As a result of their outstanding achievements, 61 karateka from the dojo have qualified to represent Gauteng at the upcoming SA JKA National Championships taking place in Johannesburg in May. 'This year's championships are significant as they incorporate the JKA Africa Cup,' said Wendy. The Horizon Karate Centre has, over the years, cultivated a reputation for excellence, consistently producing skilled martial artists who excel in competitions. ALSO READ: Match report: Northcliff High back to winning ways at St Stithians Sportsfest As the dojo gears up for the prestigious national championships, anticipation and excitement are palpable among the team members. With their eyes set on bringing home even more accolades, the athletes are committed to maintaining their rigorous training regimen. 'Our goal is to continue this impressive streak and showcase what we've accomplished,' added Wendy. 'The upcoming nationals will be a true test of our skills, resilience and unity as a team.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
22-04-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Jozi Cup Season 4 kicks off in May
Lions Cricket confirmed that the country's biggest T20 winter club cricket competition, The Jozi Cup, will commence in a month with Season 4 kicking off on May 11. The officially endorsed Lions Cricket community-based competition includes more than 25 clubs spanning 10 age group categories and more than 130 participating teams from U11 right through to over 40s. The brainchild of Lions Cricket, the Jozi Cup was developed to foster community club cricket, which ultimately serves as a continuation of the Pride's pipeline feeder system. Also read: Final day of Saints SportsFest underway in style Inclusive of blind cricket teams as well as players from the valued Telkom Talent Acceleration Programme, there really is no stone left unturned when it comes to unearthing the talent within the pipeline. Jozi Cup tournament director Reuben Mandlazi said the tournament provided continuity for those wanting to stay in form over the winter period, with stiff competition and superb exposure. 'This is a competitive tournament that offers players the opportunity to improve their game under the guidance of experienced players, while at the same time encouraging them to play with freedom,' he said. Also read: Thrilling U16 clashes to close out 2025 St John's Easter Rugby Festival He added that every year, the tournament strived to uphold its founding values of inclusivity, diversity, fairness, equity and equality no matter gender, race or religion; offering clubs and the entire cricketing eco-system something to look forward to each winter and feel a genuine sense of belonging to the Lions Pride. 'We are also thrilled to welcome a girls' U13 division for the first time – may you all enjoy the tournament as much as we do hosting it.' Lions Cricket CEO Jono Leaf-Wright said the SA20 Joburg Super Kings (JSK) would help elevate these tournaments once again. 'We are excited to have JSK a part of this tournament again and supporting our Jozi Cup. Having them involved certainly elevates the experience for all our participating clubs and players. We are also always so thrilled and grateful to the partners that jump on board to walk the Jozi Cup journey with us. Every sponsor, partner, team and volunteer aid in making this an exceptional experience and a project we are proud to power.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
