Cape Town, a vibrant city in South Africa, is eagerly anticipating the upcoming Vitality Netball World Cup, with only 30 days left until the tournament begins. In preparation for the event, the city has unveiled a new World Cup legacy mural at the [Bellville Netball Club](https://capetown.today/the-sporting-symphony-cape-towns-under-19-netball-tournament), which is currently undergoing restoration.
Restoring the Bellville Netball Club
The Bellville Netball Club was destroyed by a fire in 2016, caused by an electrical fault, which destroyed amenities and machinery. The city’s Recreation and Parks Department has since rebuilt the facility, with services now restored. The club is set to undergo additional upgrades, including improved floodlights and resurfacing four of the eight netball courts. Two courts will be converted into fast-five netball courts.
Plans for Improving the Surrounding Area
Plans for major improvements to the surrounding area aim to create a central space accommodating all sporting codes for patrons’ benefit. JP Smith, the City’s mayoral committee member for safety and security, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming World Cup and the excitement building in Cape Town as the city prepares to create history for the netball community.
New Legacy Mural
The City’s Events Department has adorned the main building of the Bellville Netball Club with the new legacy mural as part of the build-up activities for the World Cup. The impressive 4.45-meter by 13.3-meter mural, created by graffiti artist Sergio Rinquest, also known as Serge One, pays tribute to Cape Town’s beauty while incorporating themes of netball, women’s empowerment, and hope. Similar murals have been previously unveiled in various locations.
Importance of Hosting the Netball World Cup in Cape Town
Councillor Patricia Van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, spoke on the importance of hosting the Netball World Cup in Cape Town, emphasizing its role in promoting netball within local communities. Van der Ross considers the latest mural as symbolic of the excellence, heart, and courage the sport represents. She highlighted the pride in unveiling the mural at the Bellville Netball Club while counting down the weeks to the main event.
Bellville Netball Club’s Significance
The Bellville Netball Club serves as more than just a venue. It acts as the headquarters of the Cape Town Netball Federation (CTNF) and hosts numerous league matches that propel young players towards future success. The club has been the training ground for several renowned netball players, including Irene Van Dyk, a South African-born player who holds the record for the most international caps.
Fostering the Growth of Netball within Local Communities
As the city of Cape Town continues its preparations for the Vitality Netball World Cup, the revitalized Bellville Netball Club stands as a testament to the city’s dedication to promoting the sport and fostering the growth of netball within local communities.
