Written by Fez Payi, Nceba Jonas and Vince van der Bijl

Three netball, two rugby teams, three soccer teams and a chess team (90 kids and 20 coaches in all) from Ukhanyo travelled to the Strand to play against the ACJ Phakade School.  This was a return match from a similar day in 2017 when ACJ came to Ukhanyo.

This now has become a tradition that will continue.

Innovatively, the day started with a teacher/coach’s netball match! Great idea and Ukhanyo managed to start the day with a win. Wonderful too for the kids to see their coaches and teachers playing netball, not just coaching them – the kids loved it.

There was a high standard of sport and chess throughout. Both teams played with passion and in good spirit, cementing an already firm relationship between the schools. Michael Thyali, the Principal, staff, coaches, and kids enjoyed an invigorating day both on and off the playing field.

The power of sport in every way.

The importance of these outings has to be fully appreciated. So many of the learners who travelled to the Strand had never been outside the Fish Hoek environment. Sport enables wider learning and understanding, grows friendships and prepares learners for a fuller and better future.

Both the classroom and the playing fields produce a more positive and knowledgeable learner.

The results

Every match was competitive and was played at a high standard, this was a great compliment to the coaches and players of both schools.

Netball: Close matches

U11 UPS 15 – ACJ 12

U12 UPS 9 – ACJ   7

U13 UPS 12 – ACJ 15

Soccer: The field was sub-standard, so the teams only played 10 minutes each side. Facilities in underprivileged environments are a real issue in an attempt to give all learners equal opportunities.

U11 UPS 0 – ACJ 0 (Boys)

U13 UPS 1 – ACJ 1 (Boys)

U13 UPS 2 – ACJ 1 (Girls)

Rugby:

U 11 UPS 1 try to ACJ 2 tries

U 13 UPS 1 try to ACJ 2 tries

Chess: The team of 12 won all their matches. The strength of Ukhanyo chess club (which was launched in April this year!) is becoming well known for their skills and approach! The club is a wonderful addition to the school.

This was a brilliant day for all in perfect weather. Tired and happy the buses arrived back at Masiphumelele at 7 p.m – a full 12-hour day of friendships, experiences, competition and memories.

Thank you, A.C.J Phakande for organizing such a wonderful experience.