eMba boys represent SA in Los Angeles
Sihle said he is happy to get a chance to go to America.
A team of 10 basketball players and their two coaches from eMbalenhle will be travelling to Los Angeles in America to represent South Africa during the Special Olympics World Games.
The team had a send-off function at the Birchwood Hotel on Sunday, 19 July during which the Deputy Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Gert Oosthuizen, and the ANC veteran, Mr Mathews Phosa, addressed them.
The nine-day Special Olympics will feature athletes with intellectual disabilities competing in sport such as swimming, basketball, track and field and gymnastics.
It is expected to be the largest sports event in Los Angeles with about 7 000 athletes participating in 26 different sports and as many as 500 000 spectators are expected in take part in various events, all of which are free except for the opening ceremony.
“It is going to be a real celebration of our theme, which is celebrating courage, determination and joy, and creating awareness that lead to acceptance and inclusion,” said Mr Patrick McClenahan, president and CEO.
The First Lady Michelle Obama, who is also an advocate of physical fitness and healthy lifestyle, is expected to take part in the opening ceremony this Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum site of 1932 and 1984 Summer Olympics.
Mr Steven Mokwite, basketball assistant coach, said he is pleased that the boys are finally leaving for America.
Sihle Magagula, a basketball player, said he is happy to get a chance to go to America and to travel by plane.
He further said he appreciates the opportunity, because he is going to learn lots about basketball.
“We had a problem at the Department Home Affairs to get the unabridged certificates for the under 18 year players because of the new immigration rules,” said Mr Mokwite.
The assistant coach said most of their players come from poor families and the team organisers had to look for sponsors.
He thanked Sasol for allowing their players to use their facilities for practice at eMbalenhle Sasol Club, Graceland sponsored the team with sandwiches and drinks.
Zimisele Women’s Club, the eMbalenhle Old Age Group, the Church of Christ and the Dutch Reformed Church in eMbalenhle also sponsored them.
The team will be returning on 5 July.
For free breaking and community news, visit our websites:
Ridge Times, Standerton Advertiser & Highvelder
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
BBM – 29C64351
WhatsApp – 082-611-3867
