- The Blitzboks are helping 16-year-old Sara Sauls from Wynberg raise R100,000 to compete in the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar.
- They are supporting her BackABuddy campaign and donating funds.
- Sara’s story reflects her dedication to netball and her deep admiration for the Blitzboks.
The hype around the Blitzboks winning South Africa’s first medal (bronze) at the Paris Olympics on Saturday 27 July will be the talking point for a very long time but very few people know about their humanitarian work behind the scenes.
Sara Sauls (16) from Wynberg, an ardent fan, and her family can testify to this as the Blitzboks are helping her to raise the R100 000 to get to Italy in September for the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar by donating funds to make her dream come true.
She is one of 200 elite rugby netball and soccer players selected by Southern Cape Sports Tours to compete against Elite Schools and clubs from Thursday 19 until Saturday 28 September.
Superfan
People’s Post spoke to her mother Kelly and here is Sara’s story and her relationship with the Blitzboks.
“I have no doubt that there’s no need to introduce you to my daughter, Sara – the second best (after you of course) fan of our mighty Blitzboks and an exceptionally talented netball player with big dreams in the sport. Since a young age, she has been deeply inspired by the Netball World Cup and has set her sights on playing at the highest level of the game.
“I am beyond inspired by her journey from her early days at Wynberg Girls’ Junior School, where her love for netball ignited at the tender age of seven, to the passion that burns brightly within her today. Her resilience, hard work, persistence, confidence in her abilities, motivation, and unwavering consistency are the pillars that have shaped her into the remarkable individual she is today.
Sara is a short (1,54 m) Goal Shooter who always faces taller opponents. Sara’s situation as a short goal shooter facing taller goalkeepers can be likened to the classic tale of David and Goliath. In the biblical story, David, faced the giant warrior Goliath in a seemingly mismatched battle. Similarly, as a short goal shooter, she is often up against taller goalkeepers who may seem like formidable opponents.
Just like David, who faced Goliath with courage and determination, she too approaches each game with resilience and a fighting spirit. Her ability to overcome the challenges posed by taller goalkeepers mirrors the triumph of David over Goliath. Just as David’s victory was not determined by size but by courage and skill, her success on the netball court is defined by her tenacity, perseverance, and the belief in her abilities.
Sara is not just a dedicated netball player, but also a true leader in sports. Her achievements as the head of sport at Junior school demonstrates her commitment, skill, and ability to inspire her teammates to strive for excellence.
Her passion for netball is unmatched, and she has a proven track record of success both on and off the court. Sara aims to further develop her skills, compete at elite levels, and ultimately fulfill her dream of representing her country on the international netball stage.
Transitioning to Wynberg Girls’ High School only fuelled her passion for netball, and Sara’s dedication to the game is truly commendable. Her refusal to surrender in the face of adversity showcases her strength of character. The sacrifices she’s made, visible to all around her, speak volumes about Sara’s commitment and determination.
With us travelling to many places to support the Blitzboks – to paying crazy airport parking tickets – to skipping school days just to welcome them back has surely left incredible footprints in the hearts of the boys!
A former Blitzboks dad has made it very possible from the outset which has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders! The generous support and love has helped Sara achieve quite a substantial amount which we will always be grateful for! For the sake of privacy, one of the Blitzboks has generously donated and reached out to Sara which has touched her heart!
BackABuddy
Fans of the Blitzboks are sharing the post and the BackABuddy campaign via various platforms.The incredible opportunity that has presented itself to play netball in Italy is a testament to her talent and unwavering spirit. Sara’s dream, which started as a flicker in the heart of seven-year-old Sara, is now within reach, waiting to be realized.
“I wholeheartedly believe that with the support of others, Sara can turn this dream into a reality. Her journey is a testament to her deserving nature, and I have no doubt that she will seize this opportunity with all the passion and dedication that has brought her to this point.
“She keeps shining bright, pushing forward, and remembers that her journey is a testament to her strength and resilience. Together, with the help of those who believe in her, she will not only fulfill 7-year-old Sara’s dream but also pave the way for a bright future in her sports career.
I’ve created a BackABuddy campaign where you’ll be able to read some more if need be and also have/allow for some more funds to be raised?”
