City Wide 40: A Legacy of Unity on the Court
JUN 30, 2025
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On 14 June 2025, the courts at Hoy Park Sport Grounds in Durban came alive as PeacePlayers South Africa hosted its 40th City Wide Basketball Tournament (CWT). This milestone event marked 24 years of bringing young people together through sport, using the power of basketball to break down barriers and build lasting connections.
More than 500 youth participants gathered, representing 21 schools and communities across KwaZulu-Natal Province. Joining them were 115 dedicated volunteers and coaches, who ensured that the day ran seamlessly. The tournament even welcomed two invitational teams—from the North and South Coasts of KZN—broadening the reach of the celebration and reminding everyone of the power of inclusivity.
A Day That Began With Purpose
As the sun rose, staff, coaches, and volunteers arrived to prepare the grounds, followed by waves of young people buzzing with anticipation. After registration, the crowd gathered for the official welcome. Program Manager Thando Msweli’s opening remarks set the tone for the day:
“Welcome to our 40th Citywide Basketball Tournament, a milestone that reflects over two decades of unity, growth, and transformation through the game we all love. Since our very first Citywide in 2002, this tournament has been more than just basketball. It’s been a space where young people from all walks of life come together to learn, grow, and build lifelong connections. Today, we honour that legacy and take it a step further.
The theme for this year’s tournament is Social Cohesion and Gender Equity. What does that mean for us today? It means we’re choosing to break down the barriers that divide us, whether it’s race, gender, background, or belief. It means we believe in creating a community where every person is seen, heard, and valued, both on and off the court. By mixing teams of boys and girls, we are showing that skill knows no gender, and that teamwork, respect, and unity are stronger when we bring our full selves and support one another.
So today is not just about winning a prize, it’s about building relationships, challenging stereotypes, and showing the power of sport to unite us.”
Basketball With a Difference
As the games tipped off, the courts filled with energy. Round-robin matches stretched through the morning, with each team blending players from different schools and communities. The emphasis wasn’t only on scoring points, but on learning to trust teammates, celebrate differences, and compete with respect.
By midday, the excitement had grown as the tournament advanced to the semi-finals and then finals. The matches were competitive but spirited, with every basket cheered on by peers and coaches alike. Between games, players showcased their talents in a lively Skills Challenge, demonstrating that basketball is not just about winning, but about creativity, confidence, and joy.
At every stage, the tournament rules kept equity at the centre. Each player was given a fair chance to participate, and teams were required to maintain a balance of boys and girls on the court.
Voices From the Court
For many of the young participants, City Wide 40 was more than a tournament—it was a chance to make new friends and challenge stereotypes:
- “Playing in a mixed team was awesome! It pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me that skill has no gender.” – Azaria
- “Being part of 40th Citywide meant more than just playing basketball. It made me feel like I belong to something bigger—a family that believes in unity and equality.” – Nicole
- “I met so many new people from different schools and areas. It felt good to connect with others who love the game just as much as I do.” – Junior
Celebrating Our Legacy and Looking Ahead
As the day drew to a close, cheers erupted during the awards ceremony, not just for the winners of the finals, but for every player who had taken part. Volunteers, coaches, and staff were acknowledged for their dedication, and the tournament closed with a heartfelt vote of thanks.
Looking around Hoy Park, it was clear that this was about more than basketball. City Wide 40 stood as a celebration of PeacePlayers South Africa’s 24-year journey of using sport to unite, educate, and inspire youth from diverse backgrounds
