Athletes of Mitchell House were celebrities for an evening when they were recognised for their participation in various sporting codes during the institution’s sport awards at Mercurius Motors Polokwane on Saturday evening.
Learners received certificates for participating in sporting codes such as hockey, cricket, rugby, soccer and netball. Individuals who went an extra mile in their various sporting codes received Special Awards. Percy Motloutsi was named Coach of the Year. Special certificates in tennis went to players Rameez Omar and Fatima Ismail and Coach Rorisang Matsiela. Team of the Year accolade was presented to the Preparatory School’s hockey team. Sportswoman of the Year is Vunene Hlaneki while Tshepang Matlou claimed the Sportsman of the Year award. Coach Justin Pierce was named the Most Improved Coach of the Year.
Five-time South African national champion competitive figure ice-skater Lejeanne Marais was the motivational speaker for the evening. She recalled that during her time she used to train at least six hours a day. She said she always believed that training makes perfect and reiterated that sport was “an amazing thing that can shape one into a better person with discipline and focus”.
“After winning many tournaments and medals, I realised that sport was not about accolades, but life experiences. We are responsible for our own successes and failures. You have to write down your goals and ambitious in order to succeed as an athlete. Trust your training, be confident and always be positive,” Marais reiterated.
Story and photos: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
