At United Through Sport, we believe in education through sport. Through scholarships and mentorship, young people like Asive, Alethia, and Leehana are turning athletic potential into lifelong success. Their journeys prove that with opportunity, discipline, and belief, sport can open doors to brighter futures.
Kickoff to Success
The Asive Matrose Journey
Asive Matrose’s journey with United Through Sport began in 2014 when he earned a scholarship to attend Pearson High School through our Senior School of Excellence programme, a life-changing opportunity made possible by his talent and passion for rugby. His dedication to the sport opened the door, and he ran with it.
During his time at Pearson, Asive grew both in the classroom and on the field eventually matriculating in 2018. After high school, he stayed connected to UTS through our Youth Programme, a space that helps young people find their feet by offering support in job readiness, personal growth, and education through sport.
Asive went on to study at Nelson Mandela University, where he earned not one, but two qualifications. His drive to better himself never faded. In 2022, while juggling his studies, Asive joined the United Through Sport team as a driver. For over two years, he brought energy and reliability to the role – always willing to help out wherever needed and playing a key part in our daily operations.
Now, we’re thrilled to announce that Asive has started a new chapter as an educator at a high school right here in Ggeberha! His journey shows just how powerful sport can be in opening doors and creating lasting change.
We couldn’t be prouder of you, Asive. You’re a true example of what happens when opportunity meets hard work – and we can’t wait to see what you do next.
Well done, champ! Your UTS family is behind you all the way!
Dedication, Leadership and Education Through Sport
The Alethia Kock Journey
Meet Alethia Kock, a remarkable Grade 11 learner at Alexander Road High School whose journey of excellence began back in Grade 7 at Machiu Primary. Identified for her academic potential, Alethia was selected to attend one of Geberha’s top schools through our scholarship support. Since joining United Through Sport in Grade 8, Alethia has proudly represented the programme with distinction for the past five years, both in the classroom and on the field.
Alethia has been part of United Through Sport since Grade 8, proudly representing the programme for the past five years. In that time, she has collected a number of academic awards, including Silver Awards for Academic Excellence in Grade 8 and 9, as well as certificates for Language Proficiency in English and Afrikaans.
Her determination extends beyond the classroom. In Grade 9, she was chosen for the U/14A team and went on to lead as captain. By Grade 10, she was accepted into the iGEMS Engineering Programme, which equips young people with skills and support to pursue careers in engineering. That same year, Alethia achieved an incredible milestone by finishing first in Geography for her grade. And earlier this year, she was recognised with an Athletics Badge for her sporting excellence. She is a true representation of the power of education through sport.
Alethia embodies what United Through Sport stands for: academic excellence, sporting commitment, leadership, and personal growth. She continues to make us proud and inspire those around her through her passion, drive, and unwavering focus.
Keep shining, Alethia, the future is yours.
Leader on and off the Field
The Leehana Hoffman Journey
From the classroom to the cricket pitch, Leehana Hoffman is proving that hard work really does pay off.
Her journey started back in Grade 7 at Astra Primary School, where she was recognised for her academic excellence.
That recognition wasn’t a once-off. Throughout high school, Leehana continued to shine. She’s received awards for language proficiency in both English and Afrikaans and has consistently been ranked in the Top 20 academic achievers from Grade 8 to Grade 10.
But Leehana hasn’t stopped there. Now in Grade 11, she’s managed to strike a determination towards her education through sport with a great balance between her studies and training. With her dedication and determination, she earned a place in the Girls’ First Cricket Team, showing that she’s not just strong in the classroom, but on the field too.
Leehana’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you put your heart into everything you do. We’re incredibly proud of her and excited to see where her journey leads next.
Leehana’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you put your heart into everything you do. She represents everything United Through Sport stands for dedication, resilience, and balance. Whether she’s excelling in academics or making her mark on the cricket field, Leehana leads by example. Her journey inspires others to aim high, stay focused, and embrace every opportunity. We are proud to call her one of our own.
To keep up with the latest success stories, follow @uts.southafrica on Instagram and United Through Sport South Africa on Facebook, and of course, our news feed.