MAGAU – "Sports is an important vehicle to cause harmonious interaction between people", said Mr M Maroge of the Makhado Municipality, during the prize giving ceremony of the Northern Province Funeral Parlour's soccer, volleyball and netball awards on Sunday.

Maroge said he is proud of the quality of sports development in Sinthumule. The Manager of Northern Province Funeral Parlour, Mr Jurie Smith said his company would assist communities if there were a need to encourage the youth to become engaged in sports than become involved in crime and drugs.

Cllr Patrick Sikhutshi indicated that all the youth must involve themselves to participate in different sporting codes. Sport and education is the key for the future of our youth, he said. He requested the youth to stay away from crime, alcohol and be aware of the threat of HIV/Aids.

In the Volleyball category, Magau Volleyball Club emerged as the champions and went home with R300 and a trophy. The second placed Mashamba V Mash received R200 and a ball. The third position went to Sobani, who collected R100 and a ball.

The giant in netball, Makhado Netball Club received R250 and a trophy while the runners-up Sobani collected R150 and a ball. Magau, who ended in the third spot collected R150 and a ball. The fourth position went to Ramahantsha, who received R50.

The winners in the soccer category, Tshiozwi Mates, went home with R500 and a trophy. The runners-up, Magau Hungry Tigers, received R300. The third position went to Zoutpansberg Powerline, who received R150 and a ball. Magau Manchester went home with R100 and a ball. Mnini Mutobvu of Magau Hungry Tigers received the Man of the Match trophy.