For a sports NPO founder, it isn’t all about winning but instilling values in children

BELLEVUE PARK – The sports NPO supports young ones in their sports as well as academic and social lives.

March 22, 2021

Naidine Sibanda 1 minute read

Puseletso Hlomuka is ready to kick the ball. Photo: Naidine Sibanda

A non-profit organisation, Thol’thuba Athletics (get a chance) is doing a lot to uplift young people through sport.
Former Greenside High School learner Tholi Zuzani is the founder and director of the organisation which supports sporting talent from underprivileged communities.

During a visit to one of the organisation’s football clubs in Bellevue Park by the Gazette, Zuzani shared that children from 9 to 12 years were participants.

For Tshepo Makhura it’s all about being a pro while enjoying the game. Photo: Naidine Sibanda

“The children play football after school. Highlights include our youngest player, 9-year-old Banele Dube, who recently scored a goal after taking a penalty kick. The older ones had been keen to take the shot but I decided to give him the chance. When he scored the whole park celebrated.

“It’s never about winning for me, but rather for them to enjoy the moment and experience. And for me, my goal is when they grow up one day and they have families, to share this pleasant experience,” Zuzani said.

He added that the challenges they have were a lack of resources.

Evans Ncube tries to take the ball from Tshepo Makhura. Photo: Naidine Sibanda

“We sometimes have issues with using the park’s fields as it’s a free public space. So we are looking for fields to play on as well as sports equipment such as a kit, bibs, soccer boots and balls. At the moment, I sometimes collect balls that are flat and revamp them to be used. I sometimes use my personal money to buy the balls.

“We also recruited a psychology graduate because, in as much as we are a club, we also focus on early childhood development. He said they taught the children to be good human beings with values and morals.

Nathi Makhura is in control of the ball. Photo: Naidine Sibanda

The youngest player and goal-scorer Banele Dube puts all his energy into the game. Photo: Naidine Sibanda

“It would, of course, be great to have a child play for the national team but for now we want them to learn values and have a love for school. We have a homework session and through this session, I will also bring a book or magazine for those without homework to boost their reading skills.”