The Stephen Reagan Sports Field buzzed with excitement on Thursday as netball teams from Mitchells Plain battled for the top spot in the annual Women’s Day Netball Tournament.
The tournament, now in its second year, is the brainchild of Area South Mayco Member Eddie Andrews, who partnered with the Mitchells Plain Netball Union.
The event, which was first hosted in 2017, has doubled in size with more than 30 teams across three age groups competing against each other.
“This year we really tried to go bigger and better. So, with the netball union, we also partnered with the City’s Sports and Recreation Department, and we have made it into a family event with jumping castles and face painting,” says Andrews.
“We want to celebrate the women of Mitchells Plain by having an event that is aimed at them, but also share a strong message against gender-based violence and with opening up we can reach men and women of all ages.”
BIGGER AND BETTER: Lekker netball action at Stephan Reagan Sports Field in Mitchells Plain. Photo: Monique Duval
One of the main events was a friendly match between City staff and the netball union.
The main attraction was a men’s team which took to the courts not shy to show off their boude as women in the stands were heard shouting: “ Lekker djy!”
Besides trophies and medals, prizes included water bottles and netball balls.
“While all the teams in the finals get the same prizes, the winners will get a voucher for new netball kits,” says Andrews.
Olga Smith, vice-chairperson of the union, says the tournament has become a highlight on their calendar, with teams preparing weeks ahead.
“This is really a special event for our clubs. With all the crime and abuse, this gives the girls and women something positive to focus on,” Smith says.