Locals are taking back their courts by reintroducing sports matches in Hanover Park.
Resident Sumaya Gilfelleon says despite ongoing gang violence in the area, it is important for them to bring netball and soccer to local courts.
“Many people are scared to come and play at Soetwater and Solent courts on the pitch because of the gang violence that is endlessly happening on this side. We invited two teams over and they came from the (Ward 47) side of Hanover Park. It was so joyful and so nice having people from another community here and playing,” she says.
So far only netball has made a return with the first match held at the end of May.
Officers attached to the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (LEAP) were visible periodically during the matches to ensure the safety of all in attendance.
Gilfelleon says it is hoped that this will be a continued effort by the residents with another match planned for Sunday 11 June.
She says not only was it an opportunity for the youth to play, but residents could also spectate and enjoy the games.
“These gangsters respect us and they won’t shoot in that time (we are playing),” she says.
She says there used to be many local games of netball organised informally.
“But due to the shooting, they needed to stop the playing. We want to get street soccer also here, with volleyball with cricket sometimes. We want other communities to come to play here.”
