FIELD OF DREAMS FOR MANENBERG

MAYOR Geordin Hill-Lewis handed over a R20 million newly-upgraded sports ground in Manenberg over the weekend.

Manenberg’s ‘The Greens’ sports ground underwent a mega facelift, replacing the facility’s old astro turf and went through a 18-month construction project.

The programme held on 20 September saw the Under 15 local soccer kids from Crystal Palace FC and Idols Football Club playing alongside the mayor.

The upgraded complex includes a full-size astro turf field plus two five-a-side pitches, expanding options for the many teams and players using the facility. All fields are equipped with floodlights for evening matches.

Further upgrades include the construction of two Weather-Flex multi-purpose courts and a Weather-Flex warm-up running track, upgrades to internal roads and hard surfaces, the installation of outdoor gym equipment, timber and steel play equipment, new signage, fencing upgrades, and lighting upgrades. 

Hill-Lewis said: “It was a joy to check out these newly-upgraded sports facilities which are set to help young people in Manenberg develop their talents and reach their full sporting potential. 

“Top-class sports facilities like these hold priceless value for communities."

He added that The Greens is a place of belonging, safety and pride for the community reflecting the city’s commitment to their wellbeing and to working hand in hand with local leaders and organisations.

MMC for community services and health Francine Higham said that there were no reports of any vandalism incidents at the sports ground in the last year, showing that mense take pride in the facility.

The upgrades have also been welcomed by the Manenberg Local Football Association (LFA), with the new turf and additional pitches set to help preserve the LFA’s grass fields. 

This will ensure year-round play, as waterlogged pitches in winter previously hampered matches.

Ward councillor Deidre de Vos said: “[Saturday] was more than just the opening of a field. It was a celebration of unity, culture, and sport. It was a reminder that when we come together as a community, we create joy, pride, and opportunities for our children.

“Let us remain focused, positive, and united. Let us not give space to rumours or division, but instead carry forward the spirit into the days ahead.”