Spring has Sprung, it’s a new season and a time for new beginnings as the flowers bloom and the mood gets lighter and as we look ahead to end the year in the best way possible. Sadly, though the weather still has to come to party.
Spring provides the opportunity for all of us to reflect, reset and reimagine our goals. As an elite athlete, in the amateur or development ranks, a change of a new season is the opportune time to assess personal growth, development and renewed passion. At this time of the year, one should question how far have they have come with 3 months to go in the year and how to conclude in a way that will still give you great momentum going into the new year.
Finalists and winners at the 2024 Momentum gsport Awards are all still enjoying the after effects of being recognised on the iconic gsport stage but even more, perhaps the big question is: how do I leverage from the recognition.
School Sport Star of the Year Katleho Malebana says winning at South Africa’s women in sport premium awards has been life changing:
“Winning a gsport award has had a profound impact on my life, both personally and professionally. It has brought a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, especially as it comes after captaining the Gauteng Girls’ team to victory in the inaugural U15 Girls TDS Interprovincial tournament.”
2024 School Sport Star of the Year Katleho Malebana
“This recognition has not only affirmed my journey but has also strengthened my commitment to advancing women’s sport. It’s a reminder that hard work and dedication do get noticed, and it has given me a platform to inspire other young athletes, particularly girls, to pursue their passions with determination,” says Malebana.
“The award has also reinforced my responsibility to be a role model, encouraging me to use this achievement to uplift others and contribute to the continued growth of women’s football in South Africa.”
Katleho Malebana
Malebana recently had to embrace a new season in her life after the teenage sensation was loaned out from Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies to the University of Pretoria football club in the Hollywoodbets Super League.


“Joining AmaTuks from Sundowns on loan was indeed a new chapter in my career, and with any new beginning, there were moments of uncertainty. However, I approached this transition with an open mind and a willingness to embrace the challenges that come with change. The jitters were natural, but I leaned on my preparation, my belief in my abilities, and the support from both my new teammates and coaching staff. By focusing on what I could control—my work ethic and mindset—I was able to settle in and view this as an opportunity to grow and showcase my skills in a new environment.”
A finalist at the #gsport18 awards and a winner this year in the Volunteer of the Year category, Precious Hlaka has been celebrated to the max by the people of Diepsloot and in Polokwane. A sign that her community value and appreciate the work she has done, how she has inspired her community and the kids around her but also how she’s put her community on the map through her incredible work.
The work Precious does through her Youth Alive Sports Project will also benefit from her triumph because more people now know there’s such an initiative that seeks to uplift and empower the young girls in her community.
“Yho! A lot has changed I’m a way I never expected. I’ve been getting a lot of love and respect not only in the community but across, which is so overwhelming. There massive hope that going forward a lot will be improve with my campaign which drives projects for the young girls. I had people hosting a celebration event for my win and even in my absence I saw in Limpopo at Polokwane they did the same too.”
2024 Volunteer of the Year Winner, Precious Hlaka
When approaching a new season Hlaka advises: “One thing I have learned is that in the journey of success, it’s not supposed to be comfortable. If you have an idea or vision of starting a new project, I say: ‘Just do it!’ You have got nothing to lose but a lot to gain. Research, engage those in a similar field or project, be it NGOs/NPOs. Networking is also good. Perhaps look at getting a mentor too.”
With October being Mental Health Awareness month in South Africa it is imperative to note that sometimes people fear change to a point where they let go of new opportunities. Starting a new opportunity — whether it’s a job, school, or project — can bring excitement, but it can also trigger mental health challenges.
These issues often stem from fear of the unknown, pressure to succeed, imposter syndrome, or major life transitions. Common feelings include anxiety, self-doubt, and overwhelm.
Here are a few strategies to manage mental health during this time
1. Acknowledge and Validate Feelings: Recognising that it’s normal to feel anxious or unsure in new situations can help reduce self-imposed pressure.
2. Establish a Routine: Creating a stable routine helps bring a sense of control, even amidst change. Prioritise sleep, healthy eating, and regular exercise.
3. Set Realistic Expectations: Break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps. It’s okay to not master everything immediately.
4. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially if things don’t go perfectly at first. Everyone faces challenges in new environments.
5. Seek Support: Talk to a trusted friend, mentor, or counsellor about your feelings. Sometimes just verbalising worries can lighten the emotional load.
6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing to calm the mind during periods of stress.
Malebana adds her advice on how to deal with change in a new season: “Change can indeed be daunting, but it’s also a powerful force for growth. To young people entering a new space, I would say this: Embrace the unknown with courage and trust in your abilities!
“Stepping into something unfamiliar is where true progress happens, both personally and professionally. It’s important to approach new opportunities with an open heart and a positive mindset, understanding that every challenge presents a chance to learn and evolve. Surround yourself with a strong support system, stay true to your values, and never shy away from the chance to grow—because that’s where greatness begins.”
Katleho Malebana
Some corporates at this period are also looking to partner with new people or organizations. One hopes that in this new season and period we are entering women in sport will gain more sponsors.
“Women sport is slowly growing but it could definitely go bigger if corporates consider jumping in to assist. A lot of project fail because of lack of support hence it is hard to maintain the consistency in growing women sports especially in the township,” says Hlaka.


“Speaking for Diepsloot, we don’t have sports facilities at all, we have only one field which is use for every soccer game, community sports and recreational events. Due to lack of support, we can’t even add others sporting codes. We definitely need corporate to join the movement trust me a lot can change.”
As the year draws to an end, Hlaka has big plans on the horizon.
“Currently concluding the year with a massive girls tournament with an organisation called A Million Girls Foundation it’s called: I am a Power House. We will also hosts coaching clinics at this event. So the plan is to end 2024 on a positive high impact note. So far I’ve ticked all boxes for the year I’m happy that I’ve managed to get things going regardless of my circumstances.”
Here are some more tips for all women in sport as you embrace your new season
1. Reflect on the Past Season
Before diving headfirst into the challenges of a new season, it’s essential to take a moment to reflect on the past one. What were your key successes? Where did you encounter difficulties? Reflecting on both your triumphs and setbacks helps you identify areas for improvement and personal growth.
Women in sport often face unique challenges—whether it’s overcoming societal expectations, balancing career and family, or handling the pressure to prove themselves in male-dominated environments. But these challenges also forge resilience. Take pride in how far you’ve come, acknowledge the hurdles you’ve overcome, and use these reflections as fuel for the season ahead.
2. Set Fresh, Intentional Goals
A new season is the perfect time to set fresh goals, both physically and mentally. Maybe you want to improve your personal best, enhance your mental toughness, or even take on a leadership role in your team. Goals give you a clear sense of purpose and direction, driving motivation throughout the season. While it’s important to dream big, break your goals into smaller, actionable steps.
3. Embrace the New Challenges
Every new season brings its own set of challenges, from new competitors to changing team dynamics or even evolving personal expectations. Instead of shying away from these challenges, view them as opportunities for growth. Each challenge you face sharpens your skills, builds your resilience, and strengthens your mental fortitude.
Women in sport are no strangers to adversity. Whether it’s breaking barriers or fighting for equal representation and opportunities, you’ve faced challenges that make you stronger. Use that strength to embrace the unknown and tackle whatever comes your way this season with confidence and determination.
4. Prioritise Mental and Physical Well-being
As athletes, administrators and media practitioners it’s easy to get caught up in the grind of training, competition and overall improvement. However, it’s crucial to prioritise both your physical and mental health. A new season is an ideal time to establish self-care routines that keep you healthy, strong, and mentally resilient.
5. Build and Lean on Your Support System
Whether it’s mentors, coaches, teammates, family, or friends, don’t be afraid to lean on your support network. Seek advice from those with more experience, and be open to learning and growing from their insights. Additionally, surround yourself with women who inspire and motivate you. Female camaraderie and mentorship are invaluable in the world of sports, where breaking down barriers and supporting one another is key. Building each other up not only strengthens your individual resolve but also pushes the entire community of women in sports forward.
6. Celebrate Every Step of the Journey
While setting and achieving goals is important, the journey itself is just as valuable. Every step you take in a new season, whether a victory or a lesson learned, is part of your growth. Celebrate each win—whether small or large—and embrace the lessons that come with each setback.
Women in sport are trailblazers, breaking down barriers and setting new standards. As you embark on this season, do so with pride, knowing that you are part of a growing movement that empowers women to achieve greatness on and off the field.
Embrace the journey ahead, knowing that each new season is another chance to redefine your limits and inspire those who follow in your footsteps.