Al-Qalam 
By Azra Hoosen
Orient Islamic School’s girls’ volleyball team has secured a historic third consecutive league title after being crowned U19 champions at the Girls’ Schools Volleyball League hosted by Westville Girls’ High School.
The victory extends an unbeaten run that began in the U16 division, where the team won back-to-back league titles before moving into the open category and claiming the U19 championship this season.
Playing before a home crowd in Westville, Orient navigated a highly competitive knockout stage to retain their title. The team defeated Danville Park Girls’ High School in the semi-final before overcoming hosts Westville Girls’ High School in the final. Coaches described the atmosphere as intense.
Some players received individual recognition for their great performances.
15-year-old Sanaa Habiba Nakooda, received three of the league’s top individual awards: Best Server, Best Attacker and Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the U19 division.
Sanaa has also been selected to represent the Umlazi District Volleyball Team at the Winter Games Tournament in Gauteng next month, where she will compete against players from districts and provinces across South Africa.
Speaking about the sport, Sanaa told Al-Qalam that teamwork remained one of the aspects she enjoyed most. “What I enjoy most about volleyball is the connection we build as teammates. Whether we win a point or lose one, we continue encouraging each other and keeping the energy alive. That’s what makes this sport so special,” she said.
The championship was particularly significant for matric learner Atiyyah Amojee, who played her final match for the school after representing the volleyball team since Grade 8.
Her mother, Munirah Docrat, described the victory as an emotional moment for the team. “The girls have built an amazing bond despite the age differences between them. This was Atiyyah’s final match for the school, so winning the title made it even more special,” said Docrat.
Head of Sport, A.R. Hyder, said that winning three consecutive league titles reflected the dedication shown by the players over several years.
“These young learners have shown tremendous dedication, discipline and character throughout their volleyball journey. They continue to raise the standard of excellence in school sport and have created a legacy that future generations of Orient athletes can aspire to. We are immensely proud of their achievement and the manner in which they have represented the school,” he said.
The girls’ sports coach, Aisha Bhatti, attributed the success to the team’s commitment and unity. “Their success is built on hard work, sacrifice and a shared belief in one another, and we could not be prouder of what they have achieved together,” she said.
Bhatti also noted that the final stages of the competition tested the team’s resilience and unity. “The atmosphere was intense as volleyball can be anyone’s game on the day. There were moments when the girls’ confidence dropped, but they continued encouraging one another and fighting for every point. Their ability to trust each other and work collectively towards one goal ultimately helped them maintain their status as undefeated champions,” she said.
The players and coaches also acknowledged the support of the school’s healthcare partner, Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital and Executive Headmaster Imtiaz Saib, whose backing of the volleyball programme contributed to the team’s successful season.
The achievement marks a rare milestone for the school’s volleyball programme, with the team maintaining its championship status across two age categories while continuing to produce players capable of competing at the district level.
As the celebrations continue, the players now turn their attention to future competitions.
