BONUS - RUSTENBURG - PEP, Africa’s largest single brand retailer, in partnership with South African Schools Netball (SASN) has expanded the footprint of the PEP mini Netball programme to three additional provinces following on from last year’s resounding success. This year, 30 festivals across six provinces will aid in the development of youth netball in South Africa.
Initially launched in Gauteng, Free State and the Western Cape, these fun-filled festivals will now extend their reach to Limpopo, North-West and the Northern Cape.
This expansion reflects PEP’s commitment to making a positive difference in the communities in which it operates, by promoting inclusivity. The festivals provide more opportunities for young girls to learn and master the basics of netball, while building their self-confidence through teamwork, learning and play.
Beyers van der Merwe, Chief Marketing Officer at PEP, expressed enthusiasm for the programme’s growth, stating, “PEP mini Netball festivals offer a dynamic platform where young players showcase their passion and developing skills on the netball courts. This year promises to be even more remarkable as we expand into more provinces reaching thousands of aspiring players and coaches nationwide. For us, it is not merely about introducing a sport; it’s about fostering inclusivity, building confidence, and promoting active lifestyles and a love for the game.”
“By supporting 30 festivals this year, we aspire to create inclusive and supportive environments where young players can be inspired to aim high and have fun while they learn and grow,” adds van der Merwe.
The festivals kicked off at the beginning of March in Springs, setting the stage for an exciting netball season ahead. This weekend, on Saturday, 18 May, the courts at Rustenburg Noord Primary will be the setting for both local and neighbouring schools.
Di Woolley, President of South African Schools Netball (SASN) commended PEP’s initiative emphasising its positive impact, “The PEP mini Netball festivals have demonstrated the effectiveness in promoting youth development through sports and providing an opportunity for children from diverse backgrounds to develop essential sport and life skills. We applaud PEP’s commitment to broadening the reach and impact of PEP mini Netball and in doing so, nurturing the potential of even more young girls.”
