The Johannesburg Table Tennis Association proudly congratulates its Soweto Table Tennis Paraplegic athletes on their outstanding performances at the SASAII National Open Summer Games 2026, held from March 23 to 27 at the City of Mbombela Local Municipality.
Representing the Gauteng Team for Schools with Intellectual Impairment, Oratile Mogorosi, Samantha Utabwarova, and Xolani Mkhondwane showcased determination, discipline, and competitive spirit across team, doubles, and singles events, underlining Johannesburg Table Tennis Association’s commitment to excellence, development, and inclusion in table tennis.
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The boys’ team, competing in the Boys Over 16 category, delivered consistent performances throughout the tournament, advancing to the quarterfinals in all events, including team, mixed doubles and singles.
In the Girls over 16 category, Utabwarova produced an outstanding performance, earning a silver medal in girls’ doubles and securing gold in girls’ singles, marking a major highlight for JTTA and the Gauteng team.
JTTA Para Manager and Gauteng Table Tennis for Special Schools Convenor, Tsepo Ntilane, expressed pride in the athletes’ achievements and growth throughout the competition.
“I am extremely proud of Oratile, Samantha and Xolani for the way they represented Johannesburg and Gauteng. They competed with confidence, discipline and heart.
“Their performances, especially reaching the quarterfinals across events and bringing home medals, reflect the progress we are making in para table tennis and in the development of special schools. These athletes continue to prove what is possible when the right support structures are in place,” said Ntilane.
JTTA extends its appreciation to SASAII, coaches, officials, parents and supporters for their continued contribution to the development of inclusive sport.
The association remains committed to expanding opportunities for athletes with intellectual impairment and strengthening pathways from grassroots to national competition.
