Passion powers DurbaKnights’ goalie Christo Pieterse through all challenges

DURBAKNIGHTS goalie, Christo Pieterse, 14, shared more on living with Cliedo Cranial Dysostosis (CCD) and while this disease has greatly affected his life, it has had little affect on his love of ice hockey, where he plays the exciting goalie position.

The Kuswag learner was diagnosed at just five weeks old with the rare genetic physical condition, which only affects one in a million people, and has undergone many major procedures over the years.

CCD sees Christo without collar bones, he is much shorter in stature, has hyper mobility of joints and supernumerary teeth which require extensive corrective surgeries (the most recent maxio-facial operation took place in December 2018, where braces and chains were fitted to his teeth).

Tympanic tubes were fitted into Christo’s ears at just 17-months-old, one of four sets over a space of nine years.

Christo’s eardrums have been damaged and he is not able to have any more procedures to correct his hearing.

At age 10, after extensive blood tests, Christo was found to be selective igA deficient, which means his body doesn’t produce sufficient amounts of antibodies to fight respiratory infections.

During his senior primary phase, Christo was home-schooled, which offered limited sporting opportunities.
Although he was warned against participating in contact sport, he discovered ice hockey and his love for the game has only grown since.

Playing the position of goalkeeper, injuries as a result of physical contact are somewhat lower.

Suited up in his extensive protective gear, Christo’s love for the sport has seen him prefer the very exciting position and as a result, he possesses not a frightened bone in his body.

“Christo has worked so hard over the past year and has been selected to play in the inter-provincial tournament in (ITP) Cape Town for the Coastal U16 team as a goalkeeper,” said proud mother, Michelle Pieterse.

“This tournament takes place from 16 June to 23 June. This will be his first ever IPT and he is over the moon to be able to participate.”

Michelle further explained that Christo always looks forward to his Sunday morning practices at Galleria.
The sport, and together with those who make up the team and coaches, have led Christo to see the DurbaKnights Club as his second family.

Christo idolises DurbaKnights’ goalkeeper and registered coach, Matt Morgan.

“Christo is always willing to help the new kids that try out for the first time and his enthusiasm shows in his smile,” said Michelle.

When not on the ice, Christo loves playing lego, fishing with his father, camping, playing Xbox and spending time with friends.

“I recommend everyone try ice hockey at least once,” said Christo. “You’ll have your limits pushed, discover what real fun is and make friends for life.”

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