SHOOTING hoops and pushing the youth to do better is the drive behind basketball coach, Mxolisi Ndlanya. The seasoned player turned coach, hails from Lamontville and has played basketball for over 20 years.
He is a PeacePlayers International (PPI) veteran who currently offers coaching lessons at Fairvale Secondary in Wentworth which has been well received by the learners who are keen to go far in the sport.
He is also supported by the Wentworth Sports Confederation, which also supplied him with portable basketball hoops.
The 35-year-old was introduced to the sport through his uncle who used to coach a local team in his hometown. “I used to tag along wherever they used to go. But I wasn’t really interested in basketball at the time. My focus was on swimming and lifeguarding.”
His interest in basketball only grew on him when he was in high school. At Ganges Secondary when he realised he had a natural knack for it. He was also drawn to the various opportunities and programmes the sport exposed him to at the time.
He got involved in Playing for Peace, now known as PPI which is a non-profit organisation that uses the game of basketball to unite and educate children and their communities.
After he matriculated he got into coaching as a way to earn an income. He coached at various high schools as part of PPI’s outreach programmes.
“I’ve always been a sports person. Coaching has been a passion of mine from the moment I started.”
He got a scholarship to study at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) where he obtained his diploma in sports management. After completing his studies he did a three year internship in Mpumalanga.
During his time away he played professionally and provincially for various cubs including, VUT, Mbombela Wildcats, Mpumalanga Rhinos and KwaZulu Marlins. “I love everything about basketball and I’m appreciative of all the opportunities it has presented me and being able to represent my province,” said Mxolisi who retired at the age of 30.
He came back home and was inspired to revamp facilities and community sports in Lamontville. He partnered with likeminded individuals and got involved in sports committees to bring his vision to life, to use sports as a vehicle to uplift the youth and the community. He is currently the chairperson of Lamontville Sports Confederation in ward 75.
He believes that youth need to be encouraged to discover their talents beyond the classroom as many possess skills in different areas.
“I’ve always worked with the youth. It is something that I enjoy and find very fulfiling. I’ve always sought guidance and support from my elders, which in turn I use to inspire the youngsters who come behind me. My drive right now is to uplift sports and facilities in disadvantaged areas where there is the youth who are hungry for opportunities and exposure. It is sad to see youngsters succumb to social ills that destroy many communities. I want to play a part in changing their mindsets through recreation and life skills. It is great to see the youth of Wentworth just as keen as I am,” he said.
