The Sandton Sports Club in Parkmore has undergone a significant revamp. Tennis and soccer facilities have been upgraded and a new Milk Bar family restaurant has been introduced.
The previously run-down facility was in serious need of repair when the new committee took over with a vision to restore and improve the club as a community asset.
The hard-working team secured clear-view fencing along the property, adopted the wetland from City Parks, irrigated soccer fields and installed new floodlights for the soccer club. Seven 5-a-side soccer fields were built and five out of seven tennis courts were resurfaced.
Chairman of the club, Marc Du Chenne, said, “The club was in serious financial debt when we took over. If it had got any worse, they would have cancelled the lease agreement… People in the area are now seeing the upliftment and are interested in coming back.
“For the community, this is becoming a place where families can come and enjoy a meal while the kids play sport. It is a hub where the community can be outdoors and healthy.”
They will offer more sports than any other club in the vicinity including the Nedbank Running Club, touch rugby, boot camp, netball, cricket, parkour and soon parkrun.
Ndu Ncube, head coach at Next Generation tennis which operates from the club, said, “The courts were in seriously bad nick and our hut was burnt down in June 2013. Since the revamp, there has been a lot of interest from people who live in the area.”
Parkmore resident Coloman Hendrik said, “I have seen the progress over the last few months and I have been impressed by the coaching at the tennis club [for my granddaughter]. I am going to support the club and bring my friends here.”
Chairperson of the Parkmore Community Association, Kate Wardle, said she was excited to see the improvements at the club and believed it would be a tremendous asset to the community.
“I would like to sincerely thank the volunteer committee of the Sandton Sports Club, who are working tirelessly to improve the club,” said Wardle. “I encourage all residents to visit the club and show your support by joining as a member.”
People are invited to join the club for R100 per month, which includes a 10 per cent discount at the restaurant. There will be additional fees to become a section member.
To find out more about joining, email chairman@sandtonsportsclub.co.za or for tennis queries contact Ndu on 079 828 9624.
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