Mini-cricket teachers-cum-coaches celebrated

Cricket South Africa and KFC laud teachers who double up as volunteer coaches of the mini-cricket programme.

October 9, 2023

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Alex teachers lauded on World Teachers' Day for their role in the KFC Mini-Cricket Programme are Mapula Mashishi from Skeen; Ntombifuthi Mazibuko from Bramley Primary; Phillip Mabeba from Iphutheng; Refgilwe Buti from Ikage; Abulele Bebe from Dr Knak; Makhosazana Tshabalala from Gordon; Sindisiwe Msweli from BramleyPrimary; and Ofentse Mokoka from Ekukhanyisweni. Photo: Sipho Sisoi

Alex teachers-cum-coaches of the KFC Mini-Cricket were among those lauded on World Teachers’ Day for the sterling job they do to ensure that aspiring young cricketers get to take the steps to a potentially fruitful cricketing career.

The message of appreciation came from Cricket South Africa and KFC South Africa, who both celebrated the teachers who play a vital role in the KFC Mini-Cricket Programme as volunteer coaches who continue to inspire and provide an opportunity for young boys and girls to be the best versions of themselves.

KFC marketing manager for brand and purpose Andra Nel celebrates teachers-cum-volunteer coaches in the KFC Mini-Cricket Programme.

With more than 13 000 mini-cricket volunteer coaches that are qualified or retired teachers across 6 000 schools nationwide, it’s no wonder the programme has such a strong foundation.

As administrators of this grassroots programme, the network of volunteers leaves an undeniable impression on the lives of many children, igniting their passion for cricket, and imparting qualities of teamwork, integrity and friendship.

Cricket South Africa's Tshogofatso Mautla at the rtecent KFC Mini-Cricket Programme indaba. Photo: Sipho Siso — Cricket South Africa’s Tshogofatso Mautla at the rtecent KFC Mini-Cricket Programme indaba. Photo: Sipho Siso

Andra Nel, KFC marketing manager for brand and purpose, expressed her gratitude to these teachers and said, “Being a teacher goes beyond the classroom for many of our volunteer coaches and coordinators, and commemorative days like this remind us to show appreciation.

“Our KFC Mini-Cricket coaches are not only educators, but they are truly the heartbeat of the programme. We hope they remain inspired to continue making a meaningful contribution to society and to level the playing field for each boy and girl they encounter.”

Alex teachers at the recent KFC Mini-Cricket Programme are Refgilwe Buti from Ikage; Mapula Mashishi from Skeen; and Sindisiwe Msweli from Bramley Primary. Photo: Sipho Siso

CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki said, “In honouring World Teachers’ Day, CSA and KFC extend their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional teachers who double as volunteer coaches in the programme.

“These dedicated educators extend their roles beyond classrooms, shaping the future of thousands of young boys and girls nationwide. Their commitment resonates far beyond the cricket field, instilling values of teamwork, integrity, and friendship.

Gordon's Makhosazana Tshabalala and MC Weiler's Makhala Sepolo listen attentively to some of the speakers at the KFC and Cricket South Africa's recent mini-cricket indaba. Photo: Sipho Siso — Gordon’s Makhosazana Tshabalala and MC Weiler’s Makhala Sepolo listen attentively to some of the speakers at the KFC and Cricket South Africa’s recent mini-cricket indaba. Photo: Sipho Siso

“As we celebrate this global day of significance, we acknowledge the invaluable impact these teachers have, not just on the game of cricket, but on the lives, they touch, inspiring the youth and nurturing the spirit of sportsmanship. Their unwavering dedication illuminates the path for the aspiring cricketers of tomorrow, and for that, we are profoundly thankful.”