From multi-purpose netball courts to full-size rugby and soccer turfs, the foundation is creating safe, professional-grade spaces for young athletes to thrive.
South Africa (09 November 2025)- The Kolisi Foundation has once again brought its vision to life by transforming sports facilities and giving children the chance to play, learn, and grow close to home.
The foundation celebrated the handover of a multi-purpose netball court to Emsengeni, alongside a full-size artificial rugby and soccer pitch at Isaac Booi. For many young athletes in these areas, access to quality sports grounds has long meant travelling significant distances.
The foundation looks to go far beyond building fields. It has introduced after-school physical education programs, inter-school leagues, and coaching initiatives, training local youth to become accredited coaches themselves. This approach not only builds the sporting skills of the children but also provides valuable employment opportunities and life skills for young people in the community. Children gain safe spaces to develop their talents, and local youth gain the tools to mentor and guide the next generation.
Reflecting on the journey from concept to completion, one of the organisers said it felt like a reward.
“This was a vision that Siys has had for years. We spoke about it, we spoke about bringing sports to this community so they don’t have to leave to access sports. And to see these amazing facilities today, to see the youngsters enjoying them, playing sports, is just so rewarding and incredible to see.”
The handover celebrated new infrastructure and was a testament to years of planning, community engagement, and dedication to uplifting sports in underprivileged communities.
The multi-purpose court will now host netball, basketball, and a variety of physical education programs, giving students the chance to experience a wider range of sports without leaving their school grounds. Similarly, the rugby and soccer turf will provide a safe, professional-grade surface for games, practices, and tournaments, helping nurture talent right in the heart of the community.
By combining infrastructure, training, and ongoing programs, the Kolisi Foundation is creating lasting opportunities for young South Africans. This investment is much more than sport, but about building confidence, teamwork, and ambition, while ensuring that children do not have to travel far to chase their dreams.
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