Young athletes and coaches from Hope Through Action’s Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre and Mbekweni Community Sport Centre showcased the power of community-based sport development at the Western Cape Netball Championship in Mossel Bay.
Representing the Cape Winelands Netball Federation, players from our Centres competed across Senior Male, Senior Female and Under 19 divisions, contributing to Gold, Silver and Bronze medal-winning performances.
But it wasn’t only the players who stood out.
Two Franschhoek coaches were appointed by the federation, one as the under 19 Winelands Team Manager and the other as a Technical Official for the Male Senior Team. Mbekweni coach Mzimkhulu “Mzi” Godlo led the Senior Male team to a silver medal finish and was recognised as Best Coach of the Tournament. Having been part of the Centre since its launch in 2010, Mzi’s recognition reflects years of commitment to developing young people through sport.
Individual athletes also received top honours, with Molato Phokeng, who started at the Centre years ago as a young boy, being named Best Defender of the Tournament, while Chenique Sampson was recognised as Best Shooter in the Senior Female division.
These achievements are about more than medals and trophies. They reflect what becomes possible when young people are given opportunities to develop their talents, build confidence and pursue excellence within supportive community environments.
