DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA – The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) sporting community gathered this week to celebrate a historic milestone for indigenous sports. Seven members of the South African Kho Kho contingent—including five standout players and two dedicated technical officials—were officially honored at the KZN Sport Awards.
The recognition comes on the heels of their stellar performance at the Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, held in India from January 13th to 19th, 2025, where the team secured a prestigious Bronze Medal 🥉 on the global stage.
A Historic Achievement for South African Sport
Among those recognized was Coach Xolile Ndaba, whose leadership was instrumental in guiding the squad through a grueling international field in India. The award serves as both a tribute to their past success and a powerful motivator for the future of the sport.
“It was a huge honor and a motivation for Kho Kho in KZN, South Africa, and worldwide. Seeing our athletes recognized at this level proves that our hard work is paying off.”
The Rise of Kho Kho: From Traditional to Mainstream
Kho Kho has rapidly transitioned from a niche interest to a mainstream sporting powerhouse in South Africa. The sport’s growth is fueled by strategic grassroots development, most notably its inclusion in the National School Sport program.
Key Growth Indicators:
- National Inclusion: Now a competitive fixture for Under-14 boys and girls across South African schools.
- Global Standing: South Africa is now firmly established as a top-three global contender following the 2025 World Cup.
- Provincial Support: Increased funding and recognition from provincial bodies like KZN Sport and Recreation.
What’s Next?
With the bronze medal now as a foundation, the South African Kho Kho Federation aims to expand the school programs further, looking to turn this regional momentum into a bid for gold at the next world championships.
The KZN Sport Awards have sent a clear message: Kho Kho is no longer just a “traditional game”—it is a professional discipline that is here to stay. 🇿🇦🌍