Learners off to district champs

At least 10 athletes from Simunye Primary School will represent the school in the cross-country race at the Ekurhuleni South District Championships (ESDC) after their outstanding performances earned them first place at Sam Ntuli Stadium on August 15.

Thrilled and anticipating the race, the young athletes said they would do it for everyone and hoped to bring the accolades home.

Grade Seven learner Thando Sibisi (12) came third in the cross-country race. She said it took much training and motivation to reach the championship stage.

“Our coaches told us we are not just running for fun but have to win to go to Rietvlei. I did my best and did not expect to reach the championships,” said Sibisi.

She said not only was she doing well in sports, but she made it a priority to balance her academics.

“I want to study to be a medical doctor when I grow up. However, at the same time, I want to continue running, if possible.”

Grade Six learner Kamogelo Lebelo (11) said he would perform spectacularly at the championships.
The sports lover said he wanted to pursue a career in athletes.

“My performance leading up to the champions was great. I could see it because I was pushing myself hard,” Lebelo said.

Another Grade Seven learner, Kamohelo Madlabane (13), said she was happy for the opportunity and hoped to put her school at the top.

“I look up to Caster Semenya and want to be like her, represent my county internationally and collect all the trophies and gold medals,” she said.

The trio and seven others – Amanda Mchunu (U10 girls’ 2km), Fezile Franklin (U10 boys’ 2km), Junior Vilakazi (U10 boys 2km), Katleho Madlabane (U10 girls 2km), Ntando Grass (U11 boys 3km), Simphiwe Mazibuko (U10 boys 2km), Sphamandla Sibiya (U13 boys’ 4km) and Sibusiso Mthombeni (U12 boys’ 3km) – trained four days a week to prepare for the highly contested race.

The coach and sports communication officer, Khutso Makofane, said this accomplishment reflected the talent and determination of the learners and the exceptional coaching and mentorship they received from their staff.
He said that to have a well-rounded education system, they believed in nurturing learners’ physical and mental well-being.

“We recognise that participating in sports improves physical fitness and enhances character development, teamwork, and discipline. The success of our athletes is a testament to the effectiveness of our holistic approach to education,” said Makofane.

Head coach Xolani Zulu said it took a lot for them to reach this stage and he was proud of the learners, more so because they were not used to participating in athletics.

“Athletics is not like other sports. You compete as individuals, so we motivate the learners to believe and trust in themselves,” said Zulu.

He said the school had participated since 2018 and had managed to keep a good record in sports. Last year, they came second at the ESDC.

“I believe in motivation. Yes, we know the learners must train and prepare, but motivation goes a long way.”
Zulu encouraged other schools to reintroduce sports, saying it helped learners remain disciplined and improved their communication skills.

The school principal, Dumisani Ngcobo, wished the learners good luck ahead of the ESDC at Rietvlei Zoo Farm on August 24.

He said this showed that teamwork made the dream work.

“I am proud of the learners. Their dedication and hard work got them where they are. As a school, we work endlessly with our coaches to spot and develop talent in the school.

“Our school is first in the cluster by the number of medals the learners got, and we have the highest number of learners who advanced,” said Ngcobo.