By Nikki Matthew | Chief Operating Officer
After 2 uncertain years, our children and staff are excited about the promised Rugby Season ahead.
Pre-season matches have begun and this year feels like we are heading to a more 'normal' existance.
It has been two difficult years (obviously for many) but it was during this time that we saw the REAL value in our coaches. Yes they are skilled sportsmen/women but at a time where sports, schools and feeding programmes shut down, these incredible men and women stepped up. Within days of the initial lock-down, our coaches had secured premesis across the community and had started pop-up feeding programmes.
Our coaches offered the children mentorship, academic activities and a friendly ear every single day. Once it was safe to do so, they secured spaces where children could play supervised games in private school gardens so that children who were living in less secure circumstances had an outlet. In 2021 when promised matches were suddenly cancelled due to COVID, our coaches would take the children on oudoor outings - hikes up Table Mountain, a trip to the beach.
Most of our staff reside in the Langa community. The children see them when they are on and off duty. We have often been contacted by members of the community and told what incredible role models our coaches are for the children. They are proud to work for VUSA and they are passionate about teaching our children the organisational values that they measure themselves upon: reliability, time, kindness, transparency and partnership / teamwork.
Our coaches are not paid well (100% funding dependant) and we are incredibly grateful for your generosity. These funds mean that one of our coaches can now be promoted from a part-time to full time position.
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