Building Hope Through Hoops: New Basketball Courts Inspire Change in Durban
September 15, 2025
SHARE
Great news for greater Durban! PeacePlayers South Africa, in partnership with The Victor Daitz Foundation, unveiled two brand-new basketball courts at Carrington Primary School in Umbilo and Excelsior Primary School in Mobeni Heights. These courts, built in under-resourced communities, represent more than just a place to play — they are spaces for hope, unity, and opportunity for young learners.
At Carrington Primary, the atmosphere was electric as the school community gathered for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Dr Alison Misselhorn, Executive Director of PeacePlayers SA, praised the project as “a victory for Carrington Primary and the community, as well as local schools that will benefit from access to this basketball court.”
Misselhorn, who has led PeacePlayers SA for the past four years, highlighted the court’s potential to strengthen Carrington’s sports programme and nurture young talent. “We’ve been working with Carrington for the past 20 years and have built a strong relationship. The school’s central location makes it ideal for serving both the community and PeacePlayers teams. This court could one day launch the career of a future athlete. It’s all about creating a ripple effect,” she said.
The day’s celebration reached its peak when Principal Nzwakazi Mbonambi led her staff and learners onto the new court with a song of joy. “I am a proud principal today because of you,” she said, addressing PeacePlayers and The Victor Daitz Foundation. “We look forward to working together to uplift our school. Thank you for recognising Carrington Primary.” Turning to her learners, she reminded them, “Without sports, there is no school. Sport teaches you discipline, teamwork, and respect. Remember — when you play, you also learn and exercise. A healthy body means a healthy mind. It’s your responsibility to keep this court clean and well looked after.”
Meanwhile, in Mobeni Heights, the newly rebuilt court at Excelsior Primary School marked another major milestone. Once “in the worst state,” the court took months to rebuild from scratch — a transformation made possible through the same partnership between PeacePlayers SA and The Victor Daitz Foundation. Special thanks were extended to Adria Sports “for incredible work” in bringing the project to life.
Together, these two courts will provide safe spaces for youth to participate in PeacePlayers programmes, host Cross-Community Peace League Games, and build connections that transcend barriers. As both organizations reaffirmed, this collaboration is not just about basketball — it’s about empowering children, strengthening communities, and shaping futures across Durban, one court at a time.
https://www.citizen.co.za/berea-mail/news-headlines/local-news/2025/08/22/carrington-primary-shoots-for-the-stars-with-new-basketball-court/
CARRINGTON Primary School in Umbilo was a hive of activity and excitement on Wednesday afternoon as the school celebrated the official opening of its brand-new basketball court with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Her enthusiasm was shared by Liezel Patterson of The Victor Daitz Foundation, who expressed pride in supporting the initiative. “This is why we partner with PeacePlayers. It’s not just about building a court — it’s about developing children, encouraging team spirit, and building excitement for sport in schools,” said Patterson. “We’re creating long-lasting change by offering a space where learners can be active, build friendships, and develop values like teamwork and respect. Future stars will come from here.”
Principal Nzwakazi Mbonambi led a joyful entrance onto the court with a celebratory song, joined by fellow staff members. Speaking under the bright afternoon sun, she offered heartfelt thanks to PeacePlayers and The Victor Daitz Foundation.
“I am a proud principal today because of you. We look forward to working together to uplift our school. Thank you for recognising Carrington Primary,” she said.
To her learners, she offered a strong message about the importance of sport: “Without sports, there is no school. Sport teaches you discipline, teamwork, and respect. Remember — when you play, you also learn and exercise. A healthy body means a healthy mind. It’s your responsibility to keep this court clean and well looked after.”
The day culminated with cheers from the school’s cheerleading squad and some dancing from learners and staff who were delighted with the new court.
PeacePlayers SA in partnership with the Victor Daitz Foundation launched a brand new basketball court at Carrington Primary School! This is one of two newly built courts that will provide a safe space for youth to participate in our programme and help the community.
For their opening game, they hosted @highburyprep and we know they are looking forward to hosting more Cross-Community Peace League Games with pride.
We would like to send special thanks to the principal of Carrington Primary School, Mrs Mbonambi, her entire staff team, the learners, the parents & the community of Umbilo for trusting our organisation with the care of the young people.
All of this would not be possible without the support of our friends at Victor Daitz, thank you for always showing up to support us in fulfilling our mission.
Our greatest gratitude goes out to our Board of Directors, staff and coaches for always going over and beyond your call of duty.
Victor Daitz helped Addington Primary School with new hoops that were installed a few months ago.
