Simanyene Secondary School, Nomzamo, is the proud victor of the South African School Netball Championship following a sterling performance on Sunday 7 August.

The school defeated Phathulwazi 16-10 in Johannesburg, Gauteng, in the tough encounter.

Simanyene’s u-17 team believes “discipline and dedication” were the deciding factor that saw them crowned champions.

It is hoped the win will inspire other children in the area to dream big and know that anything is possible regardless of where one comes from.

School principal Monwabisi Matshoba said the triumph made the school and community “very proud”.

“As the school we are extremely excited by this great achievement from our learners,” he said. “It is pleasing to see learners who come from humble backgrounds go all the way and be the subject of such great news.”

Matshoba thanked parents, coaches and players for their dedication.

“These kids’ discipline is commendable,” he declared. “I wish other children are watching this and know we do not only excel in bookwork but sports as well. Andiwuvali umlomo yimincili.”

Team manager Lindelwa Gqiba agreed with Matshoba; the players are dedicated and listen to their coaches.

“In everything one undertakes discipline is very important, and these players have shown that,” she said.

“The game was very tough, as we were leading only by one point at the end of the first half, but came out very strong in the second half.”

Gqiba also praised local netball coaches for the role they played in making the players better netball players.

Team captain Linathi Zono said she was very proud to have brought the cup to Cape Town.

“The final game was one of the toughest we had to undergo,” she said. “But our dedication, discipline and team-based togetherness ensured we came back the victors.”