South African schools take sport seriously. From inter-school athletics in Term 1 to rugby and netball seasons, your child may participate in multiple sports throughout the year. Understanding what the school provides versus what you need to buy prevents unnecessary spending.
What the School Typically Provides
- Team jerseys and playing kits for official matches
- Shared equipment: balls, bats, goals, nets, athletics equipment
- Coaching and training facilities
- First aid supplies on the field
What Parents Must Buy
Every Sport
- PE uniform (house colour shirt, shorts, sport shoes)
- Sport shoes appropriate for the activity
- Water bottle (minimum 750ml for sports days)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50, sport formula that does not run into eyes)
Cricket
- Cricket whites (trousers and shirt): R200-R400
- Cricket bat (optional for primary school, expected from U13): R500-R3,000
- Batting gloves: R200-R500
- Box/protector: R100-R200
- Cricket shoes: R400-R800
Rugby
- Mouth guard (essential, custom-fitted preferred): R50-R500
- Rugby boots with studs: R400-R1,000
- Headgear (optional but recommended): R300-R600
Netball / Hockey
- Appropriate court shoes or astro boots: R400-R800
- Hockey stick (if playing hockey): R300-R2,000
- Shin guards (hockey): R100-R300
- Mouth guard (hockey): R50-R500
Swimming
- School-approved swimming costume/trunks: R150-R400
- Swimming cap (usually in school colours): R50-R100
- Goggles: R100-R300
- Towel
Where to Find Deals
- Second-hand: Cricket bats and hockey sticks hold their value. School parent groups often have sports equipment for sale.
- Off-season shopping: Buy cricket equipment during rugby season and vice versa for 20-40% savings.
- Multi-buy discounts: Many sports equipment suppliers offer team discounts when multiple parents buy together.
- Entry-level first: Do not invest in premium equipment until your child is committed to the sport. A R500 bat is fine for U11 cricket.
Find school sports equipment suppliers in your area.