Senior soccer players represent Gauteng in Golden Games

Nomonde Nolokwe (64), a Diski Queen and captain of Ubuntu Queens, a female soccer team for older persons, is ready to shine.

The team recently competed in the National Golden Games from 17 to 21 February in Rustenburg, North West.

Nolokwe, affectionately known as ‘Ronaldo’ on the field, said she was proud to represent Gauteng, adding their participation in various sporting codes at the games was a victory for all senior citizens in the province.

Gogo Nolokwe encouraged older persons to participate in active ageing activities and to use their social grant money to maintain a healthy diet.

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“As a team, we play regularly on weekends. We participate in a league in Tshwane and are training three times a week.

“I believe the team is physically and mentally ready to showcase our talent at any stage. We have improved our skills on the pitch, tackling the ball, and building stamina,” she said.

The Department of Social Development hosted the annual National Golden Games for older persons in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, the Department of Health, and the Older Persons Forum.

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The Golden Games promote active ageing and socialisation among older persons and align with the International Madrid Plan of Action on Ageing, which encourages new approaches to ageing policies and programmes to foster a society for all ages.

During the games, persons 60 and above from all nine provinces display their talents in sports, indigenous games, and fun activities and showcase traditional or fresh approaches.

The Golden Games begin at the local level, progress to district and provincial levels, and culminate at the national level.