In recent years, the South African sports and athleisure market has seen significant growth, with a reported 7% increase last year, outpacing the country’s overall economic growth of 1.1%. Old School, a clothing startup founded by brothers Daneel and Stef Steinmann, has emerged as a key player in this sector. Initially launched from a college dorm room to produce vintage-style shirts for fans of the Springboks during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, the company has since expanded its offerings to include gear for premier soccer clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Old School’s success was underscored by a remarkable achievement in 2023, when the company recorded R4 million in team-shirt sales in just one day during the Rugby World Cup. The brand has now partnered with major organizations, including the NBA and Manchester City Football Club, and employs over 250 people across more than 20 standalone stores in South Africa. Furthermore, Old School is collaborating with 100 schools to develop athleisure items tailored for alumni and parents.
In contrast, Riverlea Secondary School faces significant challenges as it prepares for its reopening on April 8, 2026. A fire incident has raised concerns about safety and security within educational facilities. This follows a previous fire at the school on April 27, 2025, which resulted in damage to 11 classrooms. Local authorities are taking the situation seriously, with community leaders like Theo Doyle emphasizing the need for accountability among those responsible for such acts of vandalism.
As the school community grapples with these challenges, the introduction of innovative products like Smart School Shoes offers a glimpse of hope. Co-founded by Kelly O’Sullivan, Cindy McKenzie, and Charne Verster, this patented design expands up to three sizes, addressing the recurring financial burden of replacing children’s school shoes. The shoes incorporate adjustable sizing, reflective safety features, and smart technology, making them a practical solution for many families.
While Old School continues to thrive in the sports apparel market, the contrasting situation at Riverlea Secondary School highlights the ongoing struggles faced by educational institutions in South Africa. The juxtaposition of growth in the athleisure sector against the backdrop of community challenges underscores the complexities of the current landscape.
Experts like Daneel Steinmann believe that sports can play a unifying role in society, stating, “We really believe sport can unite this country, and we thought merch is a great way to do it.” This sentiment reflects a broader hope that initiatives in sports and education can foster community resilience and support.
As developments unfold, the impact of these contrasting narratives will be closely watched, with stakeholders from various sectors keen to understand how they might influence the future of schools and community engagement in South Africa.
