Sports isn’t only a means to keep children physically healthy, but it also offers psychological benefits and imparts vital life skills.
This was evident during the sports tournament for children in government-run institutions organized by the Gauteng Department of Social Development held at the Don Mattera Child and Youth Care Centre last Saturday, 21 October 2023.
Hundreds of children from various institutions across all five regions in Gauteng couldn’t contain their excitement at being given the chance to participate in a soccer and netball tournament. Ten institutions took part in the games, resulting in the selection of 59 outstanding male soccer players for the provincial squad and 35 netball players.
According to one of the tournament’s organizers, Tshepo Makgetha, who also serves as the Provincial Sports Chairperson of Institutions and a Care Worker at Walter Sisulu Child and Youth Care Centre, the tournament aims to provide a platform for young people to display their talents and to give them an opportunity to unwind and enjoy time with their peers.
Makgetha emphasized that these initiatives aim to promote sports and sport-based learning as a tool to prevent crime and effectively build the resilience of children in conflict with the law. The objective is to positively influence the behavior and attitudes of these children, steering them away from anti-social and risky behavior.
“These children deserve a second chance and a platform to showcase their capabilities,” he added.
He highlighted the fact that sports play a significant role in boosting children’s confidence and self-esteem while helping to alleviate anxiety.
“It’s a fantastic way to connect with others and engage in physical activity with friends, allowing these children to freely interact with their peers from different institutions,” he mentioned.
Makgetha announced that the selected squad will represent the province and will soon compete against the Augusto Palacious Academy. He underscored the many psychological and social benefits sports offer children.
A skilled player from the Walter Sisulu CYCC team, affectionately known as Mosquito, expressed his eagerness to be part of the Department’s squad. He is keen to exhibit his talent and dreams of playing for Orlando Pirates in the future.
“I hope we get as many games as possible to demonstrate our talent,” he expressed optimistically.
