Talent, teamwork, and determination define United Through Sport’s young leaders. From the netball court to the hockey field, Anga and Laylaa are showing what it means to play with purpose. Their stories celebrate leadership, confidence, to inspire girls in sport across South Africa.
Leading with Talent and Heart for Girls in Sport
The Anganathi Manentsa Journey
Anganathi Manentsa’s netball journey started way back in primary school, where her talent was impossible to miss. In Grade 7, her impressive skills on the court earned her a place at Alexander Road High School – a big step for any young player.
From the moment she arrived at Alex, Anga continued to shine. She was selected for the A team in Grade 8 and never looked back. By Grade 9, although supposed to join the under-16 A team, her performance stood out so much that she was promoted to the school’s 1st Netball Team – something very few Grade 9s ever
Her hard work paid off when she was awarded Junior Netball Player of the Year.
She also walked away with a scroll award and a trophy to recognise her incredible contributions to the sport.
This year, Anga’s journey has only gone from strength to strength. She made it to the final round of trials for EP Netball, where she held her own among some of the province’s top players. She was also chosen to attend the Phoenix Fitness Camp – an exciting opportunity for promising young athletes to learn more about sports, grow their skills, and be inspired to reach their full potential.
Anga’s story is one of talent, determination, and passion, inspiring girls in sport. She’s already achieved so much – and there’s no doubt there’s even more to come.
We are so proud of you, Anga. Continue raising the United Through Sport flag high and being an outstanding representative both on and off the court!
A Story of Hard Work and Achievement
The Laylaa Winning Journey
Laylaa Salie, now a Grade 12 learner at Alexander Road High School, has shown outstanding talent both on the field and in the classroom. Her journey began at Astra Primary School, where her hockey skills and academic performance earned her the chance to attend Alexander Road.
Since starting high school, Laylaa has been part of the A team hockey every year, an achievement she and her supporters are very proud of. In Grade 11, she took her passion to another level by joining the Girls’ 1st Team Hockey, earning a scroll and colours for her performance.
Her dedication to sport and academics has never gone unnoticed. In Grade 8 and Grade 9, she was recognised for her academic excellence with certificates for Language Proficiency in both English and Afrikaans. By Grade 11, her passion for hockey saw her joining the Girls’ 1st Team Hockey, earning both a scroll and colours for her outstanding contribution to the sport.
This year, Laylaa reached a new milestone when she was awarded Honours for Hockey, the highest form of recognition at the school. Her commitment, teamwork, and determination on the field also earned her the role of Captain of the Girls’ 1st Team, a position that reflects the trust and respect she’s gained from her teammates and coaches alike.
Laylaa is a true reflection of United Through Sport’s mission, using the power of sport to tackle social, educational, and personal challenges. She embodies what it means to play with purpose and lead with heart, both on and off the field. Another incredibly inspiring student athlete for girls in sport.
Her journey proves that with passion and perseverance, one can truly become a jack of all trades, excelling in sport, academics, and leadership. Laylaa continues to be an incredible ambassador for United Through Sport, inspiring young athletes to chase their dreams and make a difference through sport.
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