Women and girls in the Vhembe district are being encouraged to join the Catchball movement, aimed at increasing women’s participation in sport. The initiative is being introduced by the South African Catchball Association (SACA) as part of its expansion into the district.
Training sessions will take place at the Elim High sports ground. No previous experience is required, as both players and coaches will receive training. Catchball is a team sport similar to volleyball and is played mainly by women.
The organisation says the sport helps women stay active, build confidence, and develop teamwork. Florah Ritshilingana (62), who started playing Catchball in 2015 and recently joined SACA, said the sport has improved her health.
“It helps us a lot with our health and prevents diseases from affecting us easily. We encourage elderly women to join because being older does not mean we should stop exercising,” she said.
SACA recently appointed Tlangelani Hlongwane (Tlangelani TsongaQueen) as chairperson for the Vhembe region. She will lead the establishment of Catchball structures in the district, including forming a local association, creating teams, and developing coaching and officiating programmes.
Hlongwane encouraged women and girls aged 12 and older to participate and help grow Catchball in their communities. “Each village is encouraged to form its own team and prepare to compete. Catchball is an inclusive sport that promotes fitness, teamwork and confidence among women,” she said.
Teams consist of six players on the court, with eight to ten per team including substitutes. Tshedza Mufamadi said the initiative also aims to challenge gender stereotypes and provide women with opportunities to reach their full potential.
“Sport plays an important role in improving both physical and mental health. Through empowerment we want to provide women with the skills, tools and opportunities to build stronger communities,” she said.