President High drummies to compete in Croatia

Four drum majorettes representing President High School are getting ready to twirl the South African flag, and their batons, at the World Championship of Majorette Sport in Croatia in August.

The athletes, who form part of the national team, are members of the Federation of Dance Drill, Cheerleading and Majorette Sport South Africa (FDDCMSA).

The federation was established two years ago and promotes inclusivity within the sport, says Chantal Lombard, who coaches both the President High School and the South African majorette teams.

In order to compete at the international championships, each majorette needs to raise R36 000 to cover their flights, accommodation, and competition fees.

Ms Lombard will be a novice judge at the championship. She says that being granted this opportunity is an achievement and long term dream of hers.

"I think it's exhilarating and nerve-wracking. It's going to be an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience the majorettes will never forget.“

The sport helps to keep youth active and off the streets, away from mischief, says Ms Lombard.

"It also teaches them how to build friendships, how to deal with winning and losing and other important life lessons they will need even after they leave school.“

The President High School drummies squad was established this year and is made up of drummies from both that school and neighbouring schools.

Almira Cecil, 17, has been a drummie for 12 years. "Drummies has taught me to have respect and discipline. It is like a family," she says.

The Goodwood College pupil says she is thrilled to have received her South African colours.

"South African children do not get such opportunities so I am very proud to represent my country at the international competition. For most of us this is our first time going overseas so we are very excited and nervous at the same time."

Goodwood Park Primary School pupil Dullyne Adonis, 12, has been a drummie for two years.

"It was exciting receiving my South African colours, especially getting it in my first year of being a drummie. I wouldn't be where I am today without my coach; she helped me through everything.

"I'm looking forward to experiencing new things, in a new country, and meeting new people. I'm also looking forward to winning and spending time with my friends.“

Jo-leigh Sebastian, 17, attends the London Village Christian Academy in Mitchell’s Plain and has been a drummie for nine years.

“This opportunity is very big for me because I never thought I would go overseas with this sport in particular," she says. "I feel very honoured because it took me four years alone in primary school just to get my primary Western Province colours.“

Hope van Tonder, 17, a Brackenfell High School pupil, has been a drummie for eight years and says she is thrilled to be chosen for the championship this year because she did not make it last year.

"I missed it by 3%, but I did not give up. My coach, Chantal, told me to try again."

She says that although the fund-raising is stressful, she is excited to be travelling overseas for the first time and following in her older sister’s footsteps.

The team will be holding several fund-raisers ahead of the competition. For more information, call Chantal Lombard at 072 502 9071.