David Rossouw
What should have been a triumphant celebration nearly faded into uncertainty. As the Atlantis Local Netball Association (ALNA) approached its 10th anniversary committee members envisioned a gesture of pride, gifting each affiliated child and player with a commemorative T-shirt to symbolise belonging, unity and growth. But with no budget and limited access to sponsors the plan began to stall.
“We didn’t want it to be about trophies,” ALNA chairperson Felicity Bailey pointed out, “we wanted it to be about belonging.”
She and and treasurer Maria Addison worked tirelessly, drafting proposals and reaching out for support. Still, hopes hung in the balance until an unexpected phone call from Anthony May Anthony May, sales manager of Mike’s Sport, changed everything. Cape Town’s iconic team-wear supplier, reached out without prompt. What followed wasn’t just a donation it was a transformation.
“While reviewing our inventory we came across product that, although older, still had value, and we wanted it to serve a purpose,” a joint statement from him and Mike Augoustides read. “ALNA has supported us consistently over the years, and we’ve seen firsthand the impact they make in their community. It felt like a natural fit.
“We’re proud to contribute in a way that uplifts those who need it most, and we’re especially glad if this brought even a small morale boost to the players and families involved.”
The company provided branded T-shirts, athletic gear and sweaters, not only for netball players but for the broader community. Clubs and schools across Atlantis received netball equipment.
“We were prepared to fight for every shirt,” Addison and Augoustides said. “Instead, we received more than we ever dreamed, enough to bless the clubs and the schools.”
Thanks to the generosity of Mike’s Sports ALNA was able to outfit every affiliated child and club, ensuring no athlete would be left behind.
“This gift didn’t just mark our tenth year,” Bailey added. “It gave a voice to every child who thought sport wasn’t for them.
“Behind every kit is a story,” said May, who has spent the last two decades fostering relationships with clubs such as ALNA. “We’re honoured to be part of theirs.”
What started as a logistical hurdle became a symbol of purpose, proof that when community determination meets authentic support, entire towns rise, stitched together by sport, dignity and pride. We couldn’t ask for a better opportunity.
Thanks to the generosity of Mike’s Sports ALNA can now provide every child and player with a sweater, not just for warmth but as a symbol of belonging, pride and being part of something bigger than themselves, according to both Addison and Bailey.
