MIDDELBURG – The Rockdale Strong Girls Netball Club has received brand-new training kits and equipment, courtesy of the Hollywood Foundation.
The donation, handed over on Tuesday, February 4, at Rockdale Sports Ground, will offer young girls not just a chance to play but also a pathway to future success in the sport.
The club, founded in 2021 in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, provides a safe and structured space for young girls under 15 and 17 years old. It also promotes sports as a positive outlet, steering young girls towards a brighter future through discipline and teamwork.
Nurse Mabena, the club’s founder and leader, said she started the initiative to keep young girls active, particularly during school holidays. She saw netball as an opportunity to prevent boredom and negative distractions while nurturing their love for the game.
“Since inception, the club has grown tremendously. We have travelled to places like Witbank, Bethal, and Hendrina for competitions, and teams also come to play against us,” Mabena shared.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. The team has faced tough competition, notably losing twice to the Bethal team.
Despite the setbacks, Mabena remains determined and grateful for the Hollywood Foundation’s support.
“This equipment fills a major gap we had. We are extremely thankful, and we hope Hollywood Foundation can also help us by hosting games so we can gain more exposure,” she said.
Mabena has ambitious long-term goals, aiming to see her players compete at the national level and appear on television, playing against top teams.
Nelisiwe Mazibe said the club has been a life-changing experience.
“Being part of this team has helped me with extracurricular activities and even my academics. I dream of one day playing on national television against big teams,” she said.
Lindokuhle Khanyile, a representative of the Hollywood Foundation, emphasised the organisation’s passion for empowering communities through sports.
“At Hollywood Foundation, we believe in uplifting young people by providing opportunities in sports. When we learned about the Rockdale Strong Girls Netball Club and their dedication to fostering talent, we were inspired to support them,” said Khanyile.
She highlighted that grassroots sports development is a key focus of the Foundation, as it nurtures future talent while fostering social cohesion and youth empowerment.
“Our aim is to provide young athletes with the resources they need to thrive. By supplying essential gear, including netball kits, balls, and bibs, we hope to enhance their training and match-day experiences,” Khanyile added.
