From left are school principal Fezile Mguqulwa, Ovayo Ngamra, Thimna Ngqamla, teacher and rugby coach, Nosipho Poswa and rugby coach Yandisa Myokwana.
Hard work and dedication have earned two pupils from Zimasa Primary School call-ups to represent the provincial under-16 cricket and under-15 rugby teams.
Rugby player Ovayo Ngamra was handpicked to represent the province in Johannesburg at a tournament which kicks off on Friday December 9 and ends on Wednesday December 14.
Thimna Ngqamla has been selected to represent the cricket team in East London at a tournament which runs from Monday December 12 until Thursday December 15.
As happy as the school community is, however, they face the mammoth challenge of trying to raise the funds needed to cover the girls’ travel and accommodation costs, and have made an impassioned plea for assistance.
School principal, Fezile Mguqulwa, said the achievement meant a lot to the school, particularly as they start to make a comeback in sport after the Covid restrictions. He added that the girls’ selection was a true reflection of how the teachers and school had invested in developing pupils’ natural talent.
Mr Mguqulwa said they wanted to position the school in such a way that it could be known as the epitome of excellence in sports and academics as well.
“In many cases I use my car to transport these children to trials and when they have to play their games, and at times I will ask other teachers to transport these children. I at many times take out from my own pocket to ensure that these pupils get food and are well looked after.
“I do this because I have passion for the development of a black child. I’m also blessed that I have teachers that believe in me and are passionate about what they are doing,” he said.
Ngqamla said she was excited at the prospect of representing her school and the province, and thanked her teachers and principal for their support. Ngamra shared these sentiments and applauded her principal for always showing up for them.
Teacher and rugby coach, Nosipho Poswa, has herself donned the colours of the Women's Springbok team and has represented the country as well.
If you can assist in any way, call Fezile Mguqulwa on 082 707 2163.