Andrew Russell (61) from Cape Town, Western Cape
For as long as he can remember, sport has been more than just a game for Andrew Russell – it’s been a language of hope, connection, and opportunity. Today, as the director and co-founder of sport4kids, Andrew has dedicated nearly two decades to ensuring that children from underserved communities can experience that same joy and belonging that the power of sport brought into his own life.
Through sport4kids, a non-profit organisation he started in 2006 with David and Jenny MacGregor, Andrew is helping rewrite the stories of children who might otherwise have been left on the sidelines. Their mission is simple yet profound: to give every child a chance to play – regardless of their financial background.
From the Field to the Heart
Andrew’s love for sport began in his early school days.
“I played everything I could – cricket, rugby, you name it,” he recalls fondly.
After studying, he spent eight years teaching and coaching at a high school before venturing into sports tourism. In 2000, he founded Cape Africa Tours, bringing sports teams from around the world to South Africa.
It was during these tours that Andrew began noticing a heartbreaking reality.
“Many of the local kids had incredible talent but no access – no kit, no coaching, and often, no transport,” he says.
Visiting teams would sometimes leave behind their equipment, and Andrew would distribute it to local schools. But the need was far greater than a few extra cricket bats or soccer balls. That realisation sparked the birth of sport4kids.
Since its founding, the organisation has helped hundreds of children participate in sports by providing them with equipment, uniforms, and access to coaching.
“We’ve seen shy, uncertain kids transform into confident young athletes,” Andrew explains. “Sport teaches teamwork, resilience, and belief – lessons that last long after the final whistle.”
A Vehicle of Hope
One of the organisation’s proudest moments came in 2016 when Westminster Under School in London raised funds for a 14-seater Toyota Quantum – a vehicle that became the beating heart of the programme.
“That van has transported countless children to practices, matches, and tournaments they otherwise would have missed,” says Andrew. “Without it, hundreds of fixtures would simply not have happened.”
But sustaining this vital service has become increasingly difficult. Rising fuel costs, maintenance fees, and the need for more sports gear have stretched their resources thin.
“Right now, we’re in urgent need of support to keep the vehicle running and ensure no child misses their shot at playing,” he adds.
In June 2025, Andrew launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aptly titled ‘The Power of Sport’, to raise R250,000 for kits, equipment, and vehicle maintenance. So far, 10 donors have contributed R5,783.50, but the journey ahead remains long.
Yet Andrew remains hopeful.
“Every small donation truly helps,” he says. “A cricket bat or soccer ball might seem small, but for a child who’s never owned one, it means the world.”
Sport as a Lifeline for Mental Health
Beyond the physical benefits, Andrew believes sport has the power to nurture mental well-being and community belonging – something especially vital for South African youth.
“Sport gives kids a purpose, a sense of identity,” he explains. “It keeps them off the streets, away from dangerous paths, and helps them believe they belong to something bigger than themselves.”
He recalls one story that has stayed with him over the years: a young boy named Nathan, who received a scholarship to attend Plumstead High School through sport4kids.
“Nathan was sport-crazy and full of potential,” says Andrew proudly. “Today, he’s involved in coaching and giving back to other young athletes – proof of how the ripple effect of opportunity can change lives.”
For Andrew, these moments make every challenge worth it. “When a parent comes up to you after a match, with tears in their eyes, thanking you for believing in their child – that’s when you realise this work matters,” he says.
The Future: Building Champions On and Off the Field
Looking ahead, Andrew envisions a thriving network of empowered children and communities who see sport not as a luxury, but as a right.
“In ten years, I hope sport4kids will be bigger, stronger, and reaching even more schools across South Africa,” he says. “I don’t ever want to see another talented child sit out simply because they couldn’t afford to play.”
He also expresses deep gratitude to those who have already supported the cause.
“We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who’s donated and cheered us on thus far,” he says. “You’re not just funding sport – you’re giving kids hope, structure, and a reason to dream.”
As Nelson Mandela once said, “Sport has the power to change the world.” For Andrew Russell and his team, those words aren’t just a quote – they’re a calling.
Keeping the Power of Sport Alive
For many children in Cape Town, sport4kids isn’t just about games – it’s about belonging, confidence, and healing. The organisation’s impact extends far beyond the playing field, fostering community, inclusion, and positive mental health.
Through his BackaBuddy campaign, Andrew hopes that more South Africans will recognise how even the smallest act of generosity can spark enormous change. “It doesn’t take a lot to make a difference,” he says. “Every bit counts – and together, we can keep the power of sport alive.”
To support Andrew and sport4kids, visit their BackaBuddy campaign link here:
👉 https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/the-power-of-sport
Share their story and help bring the joy of sport – and hope – to more children across South Africa.