The school holidays in the Delmore Park and Delmore Gardens community took on a different feel this year as local youngsters used their free time to hone their sporting skills in preparation for the Back-to-School Youth Tournament.
This tournament has been the talk of the town, said organiser Terry-Ann Diergaardt, adding it has drawn support from every corner of the community.
“While the children play and practise their sport, men from the Delmore Park Restoration and Counselling Centre have been working tirelessly making goal posts out of wooden pallets and netball poles from recycled materials for the big day.
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“Their skills, creativity and commitment have been instrumental to the organisation of this event as they’ve poured their hearts into ensuring every detail is perfect, from setting up the venues to coordinating the activities.
“These men are not only restoring and bettering their own lives but are also giving back to the community by creating opportunities for our youth to shine.
“Their efforts exemplify the power of second chances and the positive impact that focused support and rehabilitation can have on individuals and the broader community,” said Terry-Ann.
Activities include netball, soccer, pool and table tennis tournaments plus a variety of other games for the children.
In addition, a barber and braider will be on site, offering affordable services to get children ready for school and there will be a carwash service.
Terry-Ann said her goal is simple – to bring about a positive change for the youth in Ward 33.
“As the Youth Alliance chairperson of the Patriotic Alliance for this ward, I’m determined to make a difference. My dream is to see the young people in our community celebrated for making positive choices.
“Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to support and enjoy a day filled with fun, competition and community spirit.”
The fun starts at 11:00 on July 6 at the New Delmore Park.
Sustainable
Terry-Ann explained that the Back-to-School Youth Tournament is the result of a recent youth event she hosted, which was enjoyed so much that the community asked for another event.
The enthusiasm has spurred her on to make such youth events regular fixtures for the Delmore communities, and has big ideas of other ways she would like to help the youth in her ward.
This is how you can help:
• Be a mentor/life coach to the youth by coming to the event and talking to them/joining in the fun, especially if you have expertise to offer in any of the sports they are taking part in.
• As a NPO, invite the teens of Delmore to your organisation to lend a helping hand – at an old age home pampering the elderly, for example.
• Donate unused sporting equipment (netball, soccer, pool, table tennis).
• Donate sports kit to the children.
• Sponsor prizes for the tournaments.
For more information on the tournaments and how you can get involved, contact Terry-Ann Diergaardt at 068 216 2700.
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