The old believe in the adage that giving back to the community enables growth.
In that same script, former South African pace bowler Makhaya Ntini officially opened the Makhaya Ntini Academy in Mdantsane, East London yesterday.
The Mdingi Express as he is affectionately known as in cricket circles expressed optimism that the academy would go a step further in its quest for success.
“I have long dreamt of having a school of excellence. Someone has to go out there, visit the schools and find the talent which I know is out there. And that someone is me. I will go out there and look for that talent,” said Ntini.
| |
The main sponsors of the initiative are Algoa FM radio station and Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) and Bellingham Smith.
His academy will be more than just playing cricket. Focus will also be on tertiary education, fitness training, diet planning and nurturing life skills while those cricketers who show the right passion and have the talent will be guided to higher levels in the game.
Psychological assessments and counseling will also feature and Ntini will arrange bursaries and scholarships for deserving youngsters.
Ntini set the standard for black cricketers. He was the first black South African to play international cricket and since his debut back in 1997, only four other black cricketers have made it to Test Level.
His academy will be more than just playing cricket. Focus will also be on tertiary education, fitness training, diet planning and nurturing life skills while those cricketers who show the right passion and have the talent will be guided to higher levels in the game.
Psychological assessments and counseling will also feature and Ntini will arrange bursaries and scholarships for deserving youngsters.
Ntini set the standard for black cricketers. He was the first black South African to play international cricket and since his debut back in 1997, only four other black cricketers have made it to Test Level.
By: Farai Diza
RSS Feed