Minister Mackenzie welcomes opening of shared sports facilities in George

GEORGE NEWS - Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie helped unlock new opportunities for youth in George on Tuesday 24 February, officially opening newly developed shared sports facilities at Imizamo Yethu Secondary School and Heatherlands High School.

The Shared Facilities initiative, a joint effort between the provincial Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and the Western Cape Education Department, represents a significant investment in expanding access to quality sport and recreation.

The event in Thembalethu was attended by numerous dignitaries including Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, Mayor of George Browen Johnson and District Mayor Marais Kruger.

At Imizamo Yethu Secondary School, the upgraded shared facility includes:
• Five multi-purpose courts
• Two grass fields (rugby and football)
• One cricket field
• Three cricket nets
• A fully equipped clubhouse

“The upgraded facilities at Imizamo Yethu Secondary School are a major boost for school and community sport in George. With quality courts, fields and cricket infrastructure now in place, more young people will have the opportunity to train, compete and grow their talents in a safe and supportive environment,” said Mackenzie.

At Heatherlands High School, the development features:
• A new swimming pool
• Office space
• Modern change rooms

Mackenzie, who also took a dip in the new pool as part of a swimming instruction class led by the National Sea Rescue Institute, emphasised the importance of the investment:

“This investment will expand access to sport, promote water safety, and help nurture the next generation of swimmers.”

“Importantly, this facility will serve both young people and the senior club making use of the pool, ensuring that residents of all ages can benefit from staying active and healthy.”

The broader Shared Facilities Programme reflects the Western Cape Government’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for communities to participate in sport and recreation.

Premier Winde welcomed the investment in community sport infrastructure.

“Sports can be transformative. It is one of the most powerful tools we have to build character, resilience and hope in our young people. When our youth step onto a field, a court or a track, they are not only strengthening their bodies, they are learning discipline, teamwork and the confidence.

“These facilities are crucial to keeping our youth away from crime and offering them pathways to opportunity so that they can become active economic citizens.”

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport continues to prioritise partnerships that expand access to sport and recreation, particularly in growing communities across the province.Department of Cultural Affairs Head of Department, Guy Redman, Minister Ricardo Mackenzie and Premier Alan Winde at the welcoming at Imizamo Yethu. Netball courts in Imizamo Yethu.