MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Mbali Hlophe visited the Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institute recently.
“When the premier chose me it was for the reason to bring back energy to the department and to appreciate the work that must be done. I know and understand the plight of the young people,” said Hlophe.
“Sport is not just about fun and games, but the discipline that we learn and apply in our daily lives. The most successful sports people are the most disciplined ones. Sport also teaches us how to work in a team,” she said.
She commended the girls on their dedication to mastering their skills. The department donated kits, balls and bags to the institute.
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Hlophe said they are committed to making it easier for women to participate in sport, even as they grow older.
“Research shows that females play sport more when they are younger. When they hit puberty, their participation decreases. The changing body is a contributing factor,” she said.
Hlophe said for another programme they donated sports bras to girls to keep them comfortable as they stay active.
Established in early 2021, the institute houses 40 girls and it completely depends on sponsors to stay afloat.
Some of the players are members of the national women’s team.
“We want the MEC to see the work that we are doing so that they know that any funds they direct to us will be put to good use. These girls are so talented, they need all the support they can get from the community,” said Jaco Coetzer, the institute’s founder.
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