“We started out with nothing, but won match after match, which saw us crowned as the winners of the U/19 Gauteng School’s cricket league, despite the circumstances.”
“Our team was supplemented with Grade 8 and 9 learners, and, even though we received a trophy, we still have nothing,” said Jocelyn Keyter, coach of the Florida Park High School cricket team.
She added that the condition of their cricket facilities would provide the perfect excuse for any player to just give up and walk away, but they managed to practice with dedication in their hearts. “I encourage my boys to overcome circumstances, I teach them respect and team spirit. We are a family and it is not about what you have, but what you can achieve,” she said.
The team is made up of the coach, a scorer and 13 players who do not only respect their team-mates, but also their opponents, and Jocelyn said, “They respect players to such an extent that they even guide and coach players from other schools during the match. They will never put anyone down or belittle them.”
But, unfortunately, the school does not have enough money to provide these players with the type of facilities that will help them achieve more, and Jocelyn is appealing to the community to assist them. “As a coach, I feel it is my duty to provide these youngsters with the best possible opportunities, and that is why I would like to ask if anyone would be willing to help us upgrade our cricket nets. This will not only allow them to enjoy the game, but also provide a safe practice space,” she said.
The team is using cricket nets without proper carpets (just concrete flooring), rusted poles and wires that cut them from time to time. They also do not have proper stumps, and use empty paint tins or bricks found in the school environment.
“It would be safer for them to practice in proper nets and would also develop their skills. Just imagine the difference the proper facilities could make in these players’ lives, and, who knows, they might even play professionally one day,” Jocelyn concluded.
If anyone can assist the school, contact Jocelyn by sending an email to jocelyn.keyter@gmail.com or on 079 493 5969.
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