Gold for West Rand School paralympians

Three West Rand School learners recently showcased their sporting talent at the Toyota Paralympics.

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While they demonstrated their skills, they were supported by their coaches from VDS Academy and Adaptive Gym, who helped them hone their abilities and improve their athleticism.

The three learners, Steven Joubert, Katlego Motjope and Dalinda Vagenaar, received gold medals in the various sporting events they participated in, mainly javelin, shot put, and discus.

VDS Square Academy and Adaptive Gym was established to address the need for children with physical conditions to exercise safely, effectively and affordably.

According to trainer and founder Michelle van der Schyff, they believe that exercise is medicine, and various conditions can be treated through remedial exercises. They offer a variety of programmes designed to assist learners in reaching their full potential.

Michelle added that early intervention for neuromuscular conditions is crucial for improving underlying muscle weakness, enhancing mobility and daily function.

Improved muscle strength can lead to a reduction in increased muscle tone and spasticity in the upper and lower limbs, as well as improved postural control and stability, resulting in better functional ability for learners both in the classroom and on the sports field.

“This leads to greater endurance for sitting during class, improved upper-limb function for writing and using assistive devices, and a better gait pattern when walking independently or with a walker.

“We are currently conducting remedial rehabilitation programmes for learners at West Rand School for Disabilities suffering from spina bifida and cerebral palsy, achieving profound success. Additionally, we coached the athletes who recently competed at the national level in the Toyota Paralympics.

”The data we collected on the participating athletes over three months indicated that they have gained muscular strength, improved mobility, enhanced postural control and stability, and have been breaking their personal best records in javelin, shot put and discus.”

She added that their performance has increased significantly, allowing them to break South African National Paralympic records and earn gold medals at the recent Toyota Paralympics.

“We offer various remedial programmes tailored to each child’s unique condition, including autism, spinal conditions, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida.

We also provide sport-specific training that focuses on the biomechanics of the sport alongside strength and conditioning training.”

Michelle mentioned that the academy plans to expand in the future by reaching out to more schools, as they do not only cater to children with disabilities.

“Our equipment is designed to be utilised by both the general population and individuals with disabilities, allowing children and youth between the ages of nine and 14 to exercise safely and effectively without the negative impact of using weights on their growth plates. This also teaches them the correct form, helping to prevent injuries while exercising.

Our vision and goal are to transform, improve, and empower the lives of the disabled, women, youth, and those in rural areas through physical fitness, sport coaching, rehabilitation, transformation, and skills development programmes.

“We aim to introduce them to our exceptional features combined with unique and cost-effective equipment. Our patented process, equipment, and internationally accredited courses can enhance the lives of all disabled members of our society. We strive to make these unique features accessible to everyone, whether part of the general population or the disabled community.”