Year in Review : Sport Codes 2025

Basketball

As captain of our high school basketball team, I lead a tight-knit squad that thrives on unbreakable chemistry - every pass, screen, and hustle play flows like second nature, born from countless late-night practices and off-court bonds that turn us into a family on the hardwood. We were the ultimate underdogs this season, overlooked by flashier programs with deeper benches and bigger budgets, but that only fuelled our fire to outwork and outsmart everyone in our path. Channeling the spirit of Osama Jordan's iconic 2025 MVP campaign, where he averaged 30 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists per game while taking Heather to their first title, and I, Slime, locked in as the ultimate wingman with 21.0 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists, and 4 steals - proving two stars can dominate when locked in sync - I pushed our team to elevate their game, attack the rim relentlessly, and defend like our lives depend on it, showing that heart, unity, and a one-two punch can topple any giant. Wishing nothing but greatness upon our boys and good luck on their future endeavors. Scelaphile Ndlovu

Seated : Asthabe Somsetu, Raul Singh, Michael Kleinhans, Ms. P.P. Ngcobo, Njabulo Mthembu , Devine Mgazi, Scelaphile Ndlovu

Standing : Jordan Mwanya , Luthando Makhathini, Melusi Sithole

Chess

Signing up to play chess was one of the best decisions we could have made. Through participating in tournaments, ranging from inter-class to inter-school to districts and further, we have made unforgettable memories along with the experience. The highlight of playing chess can be summed up into one word: ”winning”. The greatest accomplishment a chess player could have is the honour of saying “check-mate” especially when it is met with a prize or us advancing to the next level, which many of our players often did.

Cherese Naidoo 12 A

Seated : Siphosethu Mtiya, Arabella Mohammed, Mr U. Bagwandeen , Cheresse Naidoo, Caden Hoosen

Standing : Nihal Gungapersad, Darshan Kumar, Shristiq Dwarika

Cricket

Youngest Umpire in KZN - Hayden Krishnan - Grade 12B

My cricket journey started at the age of 6 years old. At that young age my father put my first cricket bat in my hand. Playing cricket has become my passion. I attended the UKZN Cricket Academy for many years.

As I grew, cricket became more than a sport to me. It was my way of life. I played for teams such as the Tuskers in the Tuskers winter league. I was a significant team member for the Northdale Hub Cricket Association. Through the Northdale Hub I was introduced to the KZN Inland Cricket Academy. It was then that I decided to look forward towards new opportunities in cricket. My aim was to simply contribute to the cricket game in a different and equally meaningful way.

Becoming an umpire was not easy. I had to learn the rules, decision making and maintain my composure under pressure. My experience as a cricket player has become invaluable as it now gives me an inside understanding of the players mindset. I am now able to understand their emotions and uphold the law of cricket. I had to endure several umpire training sessions and passed my Level 1 KZN Inland Umpire Accreditation exam with a distinction. I am currently the youngest umpire in the KZN province at the age of 16 years old. My transition from player to umpire has led me to a new perspective. I now have the privilege of ensuring fair play and equal opportunities for all players on the field.

This February 2025, I stood on the cricket field as an umpire for the first time. It gave me a great sense of fulfillment. I am blessed to have Mr Mark Young who is currently the President of the KZN Inland Umpire Association as my mentor.

I represent my school, Heather Secondary, together with the Northdale Hub and my family.

I believe that all things are possible with my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, by my side.

Hayden Krishnan, Thahir Naikcer, Mr U. Bagwandeen, Jayden Ramjewan and Dhaneshwara Govender

Soccer

As the captain of our school's soccer team for 2025, I'm proud to reflect on an incredible three-year journey. We had our fair share of amazing wins and tough losses, but the memories and lessons learnt will stay with me forever.

Our team showed visible growth, resilience, and teamwork which assisted us in winning some tournaments and making it to the finals in others. One of the highlights was leading my team to victory in the 5-a-side tournament on Hillview, where we defeated our tough-rivals in nail-biting penalty shootouts.

Throughout my time in HSS, we won more games than we lost, with a win-loss record that I'm truly proud of. The experience taught me valuable skills like leadership and sportsmanship and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to inspire and be inspired by my teammates. As I look back, I know that the friendships, lessons, and triumphs will stay with me for a lifetime.

Kazimla Holweni

Seated : Asithabe Somtseu, Akhona Ndawonde, Ndiphiwokuhle Matekana, Mr U. Bagwandeen, Mihla Sithole, Jordan Mwenya, Tyreece Samson

Standing :Kazimla Holweni, Thapelo Dlamini , Melusi Sithole, Luthando Makhathini, Manqoba Simelani, Jordan Mwenya, Michael Kleinhans, Sibongakonke Simelane

Swimming

As a swimmer, I had an incredible experience competing in various events, including the 100m freestyle and 200m medley relay. My role was to lead off the relay team, and I took pride in delivering a strong performance under pressure. Throughout the competition, I pushed myself to swim faster and more efficiently, and it paid off with a personal best time in the 100m freestyle. What made it even more special was the support and camaraderie of my teammates – we worked together, cheered each other on, and lifted each other up. As a leader, I couldn't be prouder of our team's performance, and I want to extend my best wishes to each and every one of my teammates for their future endeavours. You've all made this experience unforgettable, and I'm honoured to have shared it with you!"

Kuhle Leeu

Volleyball

As the Captain of the boys’ volleyball team, we have been together from 2022 until 2025, and in that time, we played various tournaments, including the Summer Games and District Tournaments amongst many others. The team developed a strong bond, and we have experienced so much together. I hope that my fellow teammates continue playing and getting better. I wish them all the best for the journey ahead. I love you guys!

Caleb Durgapersad

It has been a pleasure being part of the Volleyball team since 2023.

Over the past few years, we’ve pushed ourselves to new heights (literally), helped improve one another, competed in tournaments in Pietermaritzburg and we even made it to provincials in Durban.

One of the highlights for me was playing for provincials, we worked hard as a team and we delivered great results. No matter the position, we still supported each other and continued our passion for volleyball!

Huge thanks to each of you for your dedication and spirit. Best of luck in everything ahead

May your spikes be sharp and your serves be strong!

Saniya Deepnarain

Table Tennis

As the team captain, I have taken part in various ranking tournaments during this year. This included the Friendship Games, in which I represented Heather Secondary, against schools around the region and attained 2nd place but most importantly I made the regional team and participated in the South African National Championship games which was held during the October holidays in Durban.

It is the highest ranking tournament in the country in which I have represented my region and school Heather Secondary and attained a bronze medal 3rd place in the Country in the team events.

To Heather Secondary, thank you for having me and thank you for giving me a name to represent.

To Titans Sport Club, thank you for giving me the opportunity to play table tennis and training me to my best abilities.

Aryik Bhundoo

Netball

As we conclude another fantastic year, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation and pride to the entire netball team. From our training to thrilling matches, we've shared unforgettable memories and moments. I wish you all the best for your future endeavours and encourage you to keep striving for excellence.

Philile Dlamini

I had an exhilarating experience playing the sport I love. From strategising with my teammates to making split-second decisions on the court, every moment was thrilling. I took pride in leading my team, motivating them to perform their best, and working together to achieve our goals. The rush of adrenaline, the cheers of the crowd, and the sense of camaraderie with my teammates made it an unforgettable experience. I wish my team all the best in the future endeavours, may all the goals and wishes come true.

Aphiwe Msomi

Seated: Ms. K. Arjun, Philile Dlamini, Nolwazi Ngcobo, Lethiwe Bhengu, Siyamthanda Zondi, Ziyanda Zuma, Ms K.Z. Biyela

Row 1: Kuhle Leeu, Ziyanda Kweyama , Asanda Wanda, Aphiwe Msomi, Emihle Qhola