Grassroots recognition took centre stage at the 20th gsport Awards, as the next generation of athletes were recognised for their winning efforts during an outstanding year under review, with athlete Karabo More and footballer Rethabile Molefe walking away with Emerging Athlete and School Sport Star of the Year respectively.
More never thought she would ever be on the gsport Awards stage, but that all changed. The young runner jogged up to the stage to collect her award and could barely get any words out as she shyly thanked those close to her, including her coaches, for the success she has achieved so far.
From breaking national records to winning numerous titles, More has proved she is someone to watch. Having won her first 5km title at the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Road Running Championships in August, she is destined for bigger things in the sport. More expressed a sense of pride and happiness after her recent achievements, describing it as a dream come true to win a gsport Award.
She recounted the challenges faced during the year, such as injuries and self-doubt, but credits mental strength, coaches, and supportive people for her success.
“It wasn’t an easy year, you know, we had injuries, setbacks, challenges, and I asked myself, am I really fit enough to be on this journey. But I think with my mental strength and my coaches, the surroundings, that is what matters the most.”
2025 Emerging Athlete of the Year Award Winner, Karabo More
“The people who held me just always went for space for me. You know, it wasn’t a music journey, I would lie, but I’m glad,” said More, “And I thank the Lord for giving me the strength and the ability to be where I am today.”
So what can we expect from More in the future? According to the ambitious young athlete, she will remain dedicated while pursuing top results.
“I can promise to stay committed, persevere and be disciplined, have energy for my career. I think more good news from me, that’s what I would promise.”
More says gsport’s recognition motivates her to work hard and see herself on significant stages, surrounded by inspiring people.
#GSPORT20: An Ode Fulfilled
The 20th gsport Awards on Saturday night was pure magic, the kind of night that…
‘More Than Just Recognition’ – 2025 Telkom Woman of the Year Akhona Ngcobondwana
Akhona Ngcobondwana says winning a gsport Award is more than just recognition, it’s a reminder…
Caster Semenya Hands Baton to 2025 Athlete of the Year Prudence Sekgodiso
South Africa’s 800m star Prudence Sekgodiso was crowned the 2025 Athlete of the Year at…
Mandla Mashimbyi Announces the Proteas Women’s Cricket World Cup Squad
Cricket South Africa has named the 15-strong Proteas Women squad to represent South Africa at…
Springbok Women Make RWC History with Key Victory over Italy
The Springbok Women have excelled with their first win over Italy, with their second consecutive…
Prudence Sekgodiso Crowned Athlete of the Year at #GSPORT20 in Johannesburg
After a sensational international season, 800m track star Prudence Sekgodiso has been crowned the Athlete…
“We feel recognised. We feel as equal as men, it’s giving us a boost to say we can do whatever we put our minds to, but this kind of push. It’s a great thing, you know, to open our eyes, to also give us the motivation to work hard, to see ourselves on this stage, and surround ourselves with such amazing people that surround us, like at the gsport Awards.”
She advised up-and-coming athletes to never give up, emphasising the importance of dreaming big and grinding to achieve goals.
“Never give up, you know, we never know what tomorrow holds. Just keep on dreaming big. Keep on grinding, you know, look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself that I’ve got this. I mean, I was born to do it. I think that’s what keeps me going. I am cheering for you wherever you are. I am also proud of the fact that you are starting it. It means you are a champ. You know, just put it out there, put it on the books, and you’ll see where it takes you.”
Meanwhile, Rethabile Molefe walked away with the 2025 School Sports Star Award, having captained South Africa to bronze at the CAF African Schools Championship, at the age of 15.
She says that her award has inspired her to reach new heights as a young soccer player.
“Winning this gsport award means so much to me because it’s recognition of the hard work, discipline, and sacrifices I have put into my efforts on and off the field, and it motivates me to keep pushing towards my dreams.”
2025 School Sports Star Award Winner, Rethabile Molefe
“I am very proud of myself because this award reflects the countless hours of training, the challenges I have overcome, and the support I have received from my coaches, my friends, my teammates, my family, and my school. It is a reminder that dedication really pays off, and it makes me even more determined to aim higher.”
Molefe hopes that her successes can motivate other young sportswomen to reach their dreams.
“I hope to inspire other young women to believe in themselves and never give up, no matter where they come from or what challenges they face.”
“Winning this award proves that women’s football is growing and that young girls have a place in the game,” says Molefe. “I want them to see that if I can do it, they can too with passion, hard work, and perseverance.”
Main Photo Caption: The next generation of athletes were celebrated at the 2025 gsport Awards, with scholar stars Karabo More (Pictured, Athletics) and footballer Rethabile Molefe’s talent recognised on Saturday, 30 August 2025. Photo: Sachin du Plooy Naran
Photo 2 Caption: Up and coming track star Karabo More earned the Emerging Athlete of the Year Award. Photo: Paul Mukwevho
Photo 3 Caption: Footballer Rethabile Molefe walked away with School Sport Star of the Year. Photo: Paul Mukwevho
Photo 4 Caption: Molefe: “I hope to inspire other young women to believe in themselves and never give up, no matter where they come from or what challenges they face.” Photo: Sachin du Plooy Naran
