Plans are under way to introduce a basketball schools’ programme in the heart of Khayelitsha between April and June through the Khayelitsha Basketball initiative.
A group of residents gathered at Sikis Koffee Kafe on Saturday, April 6, to discuss the growth of Khayelitsha Basketball, which will act as an umbrella body for basketball development in the area.
Among them were Lazola Mncameni, Dumisani Wambi, Vuyolwethu Magwentshu, Siphosethu Abraham, Sakhele Mkoko, Lonwabo Marele, Sondelwa Mpashe, Vusi April, Mzingisi Tengani and Wonga Mampana.
Apologies were given by advisory members, Jongi Macutwana and Lindelwa Busakwe.
The focus immediately shifted to the plans the coordinators have for the upcoming Term 2 Programme in high schools.
“Over the past 20 years, we’ve not had an umbrella for basketball to grow in Khayelitsha. Our mission and vision is to have competitive clubs across Khayelitsha in the long run,” said Mncameni.
A technical team from Khayelitsha Basketball will see runners at grassroots level, going from school to school, to introduce the concept of the upcoming basketball schools league. The technical team will run a recruitment drive and organise coaching clinics for interested pupils and coaches, from April to June.
Businessman, April drew a business model canvas template that needs to be completed by the relevant coordinators, detailing partners, activities, resources, cost structure, channels and more.
Former basketball players, Sakhele Mkoko and Sondelwa Mpashe expressed their interest in coaching when their work schedules allowed.
“A person that is willing to help their community should be able to help without having a title,” said Mpashe.
Among the topics discussed was governance compliance, with attendees seeking clarity on the existing structure and processes outlined in the constitution.
“For everyone that is here, it means they have an interest in seeing basketball grow. There is a need to do something to grow the sport in and around Khayelitsha. More people will want to join this organisation and it will need to have a structure that is well represented,” said Tengani.
“We can’t be Khayelitsha Basketball until we have members. Ideally, we want to create a relationship for schools to become members. Our vision is a well-rounded professional who can serve the world and be impactful back to Khayelitsha,” said Wambi.
Attendees were to be added to an existing community group for upcoming activities. They also encouraged the public to follow the Facebook group – Khayelitsha Basketball.
Those interested in being a part of Khayelitsha Basketball can contact the coordinators, Lazola Mncameni on 027 63 827 6673 or Dumisani Wambi on 072 190 6890.
