Handball, fencing on offer in PA
MANY former rowers who left the Nemato Rowing Club have returned to the fold after hearing of the success of members getting into study opportunities in Grahamstown and Port Elizabeth.
Nemato Rowing founder Jan Blom said the club allowed them to rejoin under the conditions they do all the hard work that comes with being a member, and that they stick to rules like no drinking, no smoking and no drugs.
"We are very happy they are back, but we'll have to see who can keep up with the tough requirements,” said Blom.
Lottery money used
The equipment ordered with Lottery money started arriving and this month a small coach boat with a 8hp 4-stroke motor supplied by Mr Water Yamaha, was purchased and Nemato Change a Life (NCAL) – the former Nemato Sports Federation – is looking forward to receiving new rowing boats in the next few months, which John Waugh is busy building for them.
Beginner's course
The beginner's course has so far not attracted any new rowers, possibly due to a lack of publicity. However, there is still time for potential rowers to join, and the river water will be warm and pleasant for basic swimming and rowing lessons for the next few months.
Landing mats
The district office in Grahamstown of the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture has donated a set of landing mats to Nemato Gymnastics Club, as the old landing mats are falling apart due to intensive use and outdoor conditions.
The club wishes to thank Mzondeleli Matthews, the owner of the new office, for offering his garage to store the new mats. The club also wishes to thank Rhodes University for the set of thin gymnastics mats received.
Gym for All
Together with its experienced gymnasts the gymnastics club is attempting to put a five minute show together for Gymnastics for All. This difficult and slow process is hoped to present a show for the Gym for All competition in March. At the same time the club will continue practising trampolining and tumbling for the competitions later this year.
Handball
The netball club might change from netball to handball, which a more dynamic sport. It is a small sport in South Africa, which is advantageous for the club in that it will take it out of the township to cities such as Port Elizabeth and East London for competitions. The club had its first handball session coached by a volunteer coach from Germany. Members will soon decide if the club remains the Nemato Netball Club, or is changed to Nemato Handball Club.
Equipment
The National Department of Sport and Recreation has made fencing a priority sport, and the Eastern Cape has been identified as one of the provinces that will receive support. The Fencing Club qualifies for support, but unfortunately government has complicated procedures making it difficult to act quickly.
To keep the momentum going, NCAL decided to use its funds for sport to buy basic fencing equipment in order to get the club going. It is hoped the department will be able to assist with funding for some further equipment, as well as expenses for courses, for coaches and for competitions.
