31/08/2026
🏆 SPORTS AGAINST CRIME: BUILDING SAFER COMMUNITIES THROUGH SPORT
Kgotsong came alive on 29 August 2026 as young people, sporting federations, government departments, community structures and stakeholders gathered at Hlaboloha Public School for Sports Against Crime — a day dedicated to using sport as a positive tool for youth development, discipline and safer communities.
The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Department of Social Development, Department of Health, South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Correctional Services, sporting federations and community organisations.
Among the sporting stakeholders in attendance were NALFA, represented by Mr Makgelane; Athletics Regional Coach Instructor Mr Ditsoane; Netball Confederation representative Mr Bennett van Wyk; and Chess representatives Ms Majola and Mr Totolo, together with many other partners who contributed to making the day a success.
A major highlight of the event was the presence of guest of honour Portia Modise, former Banyana Banyana captain, whose participation brought inspiration and encouragement to the young athletes.
Modise also took part in coaching practice, working directly with young participants and sharing valuable sporting skills, knowledge and experience.
📱 A call for responsible use of social media
The importance of responsible social media use was also highlighted during the programme. Mme Motloung from the Community Policing Forum cautioned young people to be mindful of the content they consume online and to use social media responsibly.
She emphasised that young people are increasingly exposed to content that may not be appropriate for their age, which can negatively influence their thinking and create misconceptions.
Learners were encouraged not to criticise, bully or undermine one another on social media, but rather to use digital platforms responsibly and positively.
⚽ Talent needs discipline
Another important message throughout the event was the importance of discipline in sport and in life.
Young participants were reminded that talent alone is not enough to take an athlete far.
Dedication, discipline, commitment, respect and a willingness to learn are equally important in developing a successful sporting career.
The different coaching clinics and sporting activities provided participants with opportunities not only to participate, but also to learn, develop their skills and interact with experienced coaches and sporting practitioners.
🤝 Sport as a tool for positive change
Sports Against Crime demonstrated the power of collaboration between government departments, law enforcement, sporting federations, community structures and local stakeholders in creating positive opportunities for young people.
The event provided a platform for young people to participate in football, ladies' soccer, athletics, tennis, netball and chess, while promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, healthy competition and personal development.
The Local Organising Committee extends its sincere appreciation to all government departments, sporting confederations, coaches, community structures, partners, volunteers, officials, parents and, most importantly, the young people who participated.
Special appreciation goes to Portia Modise for taking the time to engage with and coach the young participants, and to all the stakeholders who shared their knowledge and expertise throughout the day.
Together, we can continue creating positive spaces where young people can discover their talents, develop their potential and make positive choices.
SPORT AGAINST CRIME — BUILDING SAFER COMMUNITIES THROUGH SPORTS. 💚💛
