Goalball in the Western Cape is continuing to gain momentum following the recent South African Sports Association for the Physically Disabled National Championships, with several exciting developments taking place both on and off the court.
One of the major highlights in recent months has been the continued growth of the Western Cape inter-district Goalball league, which has already completed two fixtures in the men’s division. The competition has provided valuable match opportunities for players across the province and continues to strengthen the overall standard of the sport.
So far, Athlone School for the Blind has been setting the pace in the men’s division with strong performances early in the season. The women’s division is also set to get underway on 23 May, adding further excitement to the provincial programme.
The next men’s inter-district Goalball fixture is scheduled to take place in Worcester on 6 June, continuing the province-wide expansion of the sport.
A particularly significant milestone was the recent league fixture hosted in Lotus River in the Cape Metro. It marked the first Goalball fixture at the venue in nearly ten years. The return to Lotus River has been welcomed by the Goalball community, with hopes that increased exposure in the southern parts of Cape Town will contribute to the development of new clubs and the revival of previously active clubs in the area.
Another major positive for the sport has been the recent Goalball coaching course that was completed in the province. The course is expected to play an important role in addressing future coaching capacity and development needs within Western Cape Goalball. Building a stronger coaching base remains an important focus area as the sport continues to expand at school and club level.
The recent Western Province SAPD Awards Ceremony, held this past Saturday, also celebrated several outstanding Goalball athletes following their performances throughout the season and at the national championships.
Among the award winners was Thabang Parkies, who received the Junior Male Player of the Year award. Parkies has served as captain of the Western Cape junior team and continues to establish himself as one of the province’s standout young players.
The Junior Female Player of the Year award went to Inathi Dlaza, who has also been an important part of the Western Cape junior structures and continues to show excellent potential within the sport.
The Men’s MVP award was presented to Uya Mawisa following a remarkable national championships campaign. Mawisa contributed approximately 50% of the goals scored in the matches he participated in and once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the top Goalball scorers in the country. His consistent performances at major tournaments continue to underline his growing reputation within the sport.
The Women’s MVP award went to Avela Mehlo, who recently completed schooling at Athlone School for the Blind and continues to make a strong impact within the women’s division.
Another standout performer recognised during the season was Uya Mawisa, who finished as the top goal scorer. Mawisa’s attacking performances throughout the competition once again highlighted his importance within Western Cape Goalball and his ability to consistently deliver at a high level.
With growing participation, renewed activity in historic venues, improved coaching structures and strong performances from emerging athletes, Goalball in the Western Cape appears to be entering another exciting phase of development.
