A lot of progress has been recorded at the construction site of a state-of-the-art sports centre at Malale village. Musina Municipality has put aside R6,2 million to finance the project.

The sports centre was developed after consultation with the local people, who raised the problem of a shortage of sports facilities in their area. The multipurpose court, which will cater for netball, tennis, volleyball and basketball, is 100% complete. The palisade fence around the property is also complete. The ablution facilities are 95% complete and the preparations for the soccer pitch are at an advanced stage.

A local soccer player, Hulisani Munyai, said that, upon completion, the project will help to improve the standard of sports in the area. He said some of the young people in the village resorted to criminal activities because they had nothing to do after school. “Young people are always lingering up and down the streets, because there is nothing that keeps them busy. We also believe that the number of young people who engage in drugs, alcohol and criminal activities will be lowered after the completion of the project. We really thank Musina Municipality for listening to our plea by providing us with this facility. We will make sure that it is kept clean and safe at all times.”

Musina Municipality’s communications manager, Mr Wilson Dzebu, says the municipality views recreational facilities in a very serious light. “Sport is very important - not only to kids, but for adults as well. When you play sports, you meet so many people you probably wouldn't if you didn't play. Sport isn't only fun, it keeps you in shape too. You improve your agility, endurance, and overall strength.”

He adds that sports keep people healthy and also bust stress. “When you exercise regularly, your heart and lungs work effectively and this decreases the chances of heart disease. Many sporting codes are played in teams and this inculcates values and skills like leadership, communication, and sacrifice. Hence, sports serve as an avenue for meeting new people and making friends, as people of similar likes and dislikes come together to achieve a common goal. This can enhance the social life of a person.”