The Alex Cricket Club marked Mandela Day by hosting partners for a full day’s work to improve their cricket ground and facilities in what could be a game changer for Alex’s aspirant professional cricketers.
The work party gathered at the Altrec Sports Complex clubhouse and included staff of Jones Lang LaSalle Property Consultants, Lighthouse Estate Agents, members of the Gauteng Cricket Board led by chief executive officer, Greg Fredericks, players of the Gauteng Strikers, and schoolchildren.
Activities included mowing the lawn, painting and cleaning the clubhouse, conducting coaching clinics for the children and engaging in cricket games. The workers also bonded over a braai after committing to adopt the club for future support and as a venue for next year’s celebrations.
The property consultants donated a motorised lawnmower worth R35 000 which was used immediately, and the estate agency sponsored cricket kit for the club members and the children.
Fredericks said the occasion was befitting of Nelson Mandela’s wish and legacy that his life’s work be celebrated through worthy causes. “Improving sports is ideal, as all forms of sports unify society, are tools for transformation, vehicles for social change, and empower kids in impoverished townships,” he said.
“Improved facilities will provide the children an [opportunity] to spend their time [productively] and, in the process, be future professionals and positive role models for others.”
The club’s former cricketer, chairperson and board member Jack Madibeng appreciated the support and said it was timely as preparation for the next season starts in September. “It’s a worthy effort to give back to the community which nurtured us into sports persons and professionals in various fields.
“The joint effort will have a bigger impact and, hopefully, consolidate into a longer beneficial relationship.”
He said also urged the community to protect the facility against vandals. “The facility is their [community’s] asset which benefits 160 club members in the eight to 40 age group teams with training and matches, and also the police for their exercises.”
Madibeng said when not in use, the mower could be outsourced to raise funds to augment the limited grant from the boards for the maintenance of the facility.
Andrew Watt of the property consultants said the partnership was great and towards a worthy cause that could produce future cricketing stars. Watt’s colleague, Edward Ward said the improved facility would keep children occupied and out of mischief.
He added that it is a place where they can develop friendships which will encourage them to excel. He also said he hoped that it will collectively uplift the community.
