President's pledge to keep advancing para sport

The South African Sports Association for Physically Disabled (SASAPD) held a dynamic and positive Annual General Meeting and National Council Meeting over two days at the Cape Recife High School in Gqeberha at the weekend.

President Jean Miggels’ presentation painted a picture of an organisation making progress in athlete development, international recognition and high-performance sport.

She also acknowledging the financial, administrative and structural challenges that must be addressed to sustain that momentum.

South Africa’s growing influence in international Para Sport is a notable highlight, particularly in Boccia, where local representatives have secured leadership, technical and classification appointments within World Boccia.

On the competitive front, Puseletso Mabote’s world record in the men’s T63 long jump and Masala Makatu’s silver medal in the men’s T12 100 metres at the 2026 Commonwealth Games underlined the potential of South African athletes. Simoné Kruger’s two prestigious awards further emphasise the achievements being made across the sector.

The president stressed that success must extend beyond elite performers, with junior participation, grassroots development and stronger provincial structures essential to the future of the codes. Eight junior Para Cyclists competing at the CSA Youth Road Championships and preparations to develop Goalball towards the 2032 Paralympic Games illustrated this broader ambition.

Funding remains a critical consideration. Support programmes are assisting athletes preparing for the 2028 Paralympic Games, she called for more sustainable resources and effective coordination. Governance, communication and administrative compliance also feature prominently, alongside preparations for two international competitions in Stellenbosch in July 2027.

The president’s central message was one of collective responsibility, insisting that “good governance remains fundamental to the credibility, accountability, and long-term sustainability of SASAPD.”

Ms Miggels said that SASAPD’s mission as bigger than medals and records: “Our responsibility extends beyond celebrating achievements.” The challenge is to build the structures, funding and support systems that enable athletes with physical disabilities to participate, develop and excel.

The message was unequivocal: “Together, we will continue advancing para sport in South Africa.”

Provincial presentations and code convenors presetations were also submitted, with the future looking bright for the federation whose eight codes are para athletics, para cycling, para swimming. Boccia, blind judo, CP Football and Goalball and para powerlifting.

Treasurer Laurence van Heerden's presentation included a positive qualified independent audit opinion and a good tax compliance standing with SARS.