PlayerNation Summer Athletics Games enjoyed by all
The PlayerNation Summer Athletics Games took place in Bedford from 5 to 6 December with primary and secondary schools in the Blue Crane and Raymond Mhlaba municipalities taking part.
PlayerNation brought yet another wave of excitement to the Karoo with its muchanticipated summer athletics games. The two-day event provides not only fun to sport enthusiasts but also relaxation for residents and school learners in the Karoo, offering a much-needed opportunity to unwind after long exams.
The programme attracted more than
1 000 young boys and girls from SomersetEast, Cookhouse, Bedford, and Adelaide communities.”PlayerNation is all about showing the incredible impact that sports can have on our young people, shaping their future in ways beyond imagination,” said John O’Connor, CEO of Arch Group Holdings, the company with which the Institute of Sport is accredited. “We are thrilled to bring this amazing wave of excitement to the Karoo. The games are not just about competition; they are about empowering youth through sports excellence. The two-day event took place at Bedford and attracted an overwhelming participation of young people who are eager to engage in a day filled with fun and the joy of sports. This unique platform provided young athletes with the opportunity to showcase their skills, promote active living, and foster a sense of pride in their accomplishments.”
PlayerNation is an initiative developed by the Institute of Sport partnering with Exxaro as the first founder partner, through its renewable energy business Cennergi.
It was launched in May.
With its multifaceted approach encompassing sport, health, education and skills development, PlayerNation, in partnership with the Department of Sport and the Department of Basic Education, aims to become the ultimate school sports programme. The summer games focused on empowering youth through sports excellence, contributing to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
School governing body chairperson for Templeton High School, Rudi Arends, noted the remarkable transformation witnessed among school learners in the community. He said that the spark of interest in sports that was ignited during the winter games has continued to grow. “It’s heartening to see our learners eagerly anticipating future sports games with such enthusiasm,” he said.
All the participants were awarded with medals.