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Sportsmanship goes a long way

Logan Green, sports journalist writes:

When I arrived at Benoni Northerns last weekend for the Benoni Football Derby match between Old Bens and Northerns I was expecting a feisty, aggressive encounter – because, well… that’s usually how it goes with a big rivalry like this one.

With Northerns getting involved in some unfortunate fisty cuffs a few weeks prior, in the match against Robertsham, I couldn’t help but feel a degree of nervousness about what could transpire on the day.

I was wrong.

Sure, there were moments of hotheadedness in the derby and a few intense challenges on the park (a red card was issued to Nkululeko Gungqisa for what the referee interpreted as a dangerous tackle), but the game was certainly played in a good, respectful manner and even the usually uproarious Northerns crowd was on their best behaviour.

The coaches too showed true appreciation towards each other and friendship on the day – topped off with a cold beer at the conclusion of the game.

That is something that I am a massive advocate of.

I am a fan of mutual respect and gentlemanly, mature sportsmanship.

To me, the derby between these two clubs represents more than just a soccer game.

It represents Benoni and a unique passion that Benonians have for their town.

Sporting events like the derby, SlowMag Marathon and Rowlin National Night Race among others give us a rare opportunity to welcome others to our little blot on the map of Gauteng and showcase a sporting history and prowess that we actually do possess.

Add a bit of dignity among the competitors and spectators into the mix and you have the perfect recipe for a sports community that stands for camaraderie, unity and fellowship.

They say that “sport mimics life” so I guess that the same principles can be applied across the board in our Benoni.

A mutual understanding and respect for each other in all facets of life is essential for a progressive and unified community.

Just recently over 200 Benonians rallied together to help clean the Chris Rencken Park, an initiative to remove litter and cut down vegetation in the hopes of reducing crime.

This is exactly the kind of thing that will take Benoni forward.

Rather than knocking each other let’s help each other up when we fall!

It all starts with common respect for each other and a simple sportsmanlike handshake.

LG

 

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