By Gofaone Motsamai

Soccer balls rolled, whistles blew and chess pieces moved quietly as learners from five schools gathered at Maano Secondary School in Mmasutlhe Village for a day of sports organised by the North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus Sports Department.

The community sports tournament on Friday, 25 July 2025, brought together Maano Secondary School, Sejankabo Secondary School, Mococoe Secondary School, Mailakgang Primary School and Mogakolodi School. The learners participated in soccer, netball, volleyball and chess.

At the end of the day, the winning teams in each sporting code received medals, trophies and kits.

“This event was not just about competition, it was about unity, development and empowering our youth through sport,” says Thabo Raborifi from the Sports Department.

He adds that sport is a tool for building values and forming partnerships with the broader community. “This tournament forms part of our broader mission at the Mahikeng Campus to engage meaningfully with the community and to use sport as a tool for education, inclusion and transformation.”

As part of the university’s outreach, Maano Secondary School, host of the event, received a donation of sports equipment.

“We are especially grateful to the school for hosting us so warmly and providing their facilities for this initiative,” says Thabo.

The event relied on student volunteers from the NWU and support from educators and school staff. Thabo acknowledged the collective effort that made the day possible. “A heartfelt thank you goes to our organising team, our student volunteers, educators and everyone who made this outreach possible.”

Learners and educators from participating schools gather for a group photo during the community sports tournament at Maano Secondary School.