Not only was it a fun-filled day but also a learning curve for many as they got to know more about indigenous games.
The Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation (SARC) hosted the Indigenous Games Central Corridor Selections 2024, celebrating games that are indigenous to South Africa.
It also served as an opportunity to select players from seven regions (A to G) to be part of a Gauteng team at provincial games in September.
Players who qualified on a local level gathered at Southern Suburbs Sports and Recreation Centre to compete for the provincial selection. Gauteng SARC tasked the Men In Deed NPO to gather players, who will represent Ward 125 in the indigenous games tournament to qualify to present Region F.
Theophellous Chabalala, Men In Deed NPO chairperson and founder said: “Our boys and girls were excited and filled with joy while playing. In our organisation, we have programmes, of which ‘Hero in You’ is one. It involves schools and the community to participate in sporting activities the organisation presents; indigenous games being a part of those activities.
“The organisation is honoured and overwhelmed to have been part of such an initiative.”
With the indigenous games, the organisation aims to bring back the playfulness in ‘play’ so children can be children and be active instead of being glued to a screen. In the interim, recognise the heritage and culture behind these games.
Wide reach
Many players from the regions participated and only 36 players qualified to represent team Gauteng in various indigenous sporting activities or games.
Three of the 36 players are flying the Men In Deed NPO flag with pride. Chabalala participated and won.
Chabalala added: “The reason I entered is to put the work to the word of leading by example, and to expose the organisation to various platforms with an opportunity to bag sponsorships and also let the public know of our vision and objectives.”
Head of the central corridor Gauteng Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Mashudu Magada further highlighted:
“We hold the indigenous games programme in the various corridors. The one held at Region F is called the central corridor. We aim to bring together the best players from our local communities in all seven regions.
“Additionally, we are in partnership with the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), ensuring the players have equipment, transport, and cared for during their participation. These games are important because they keep children in the communities away from malicious activities, focus on their physical and mental well-being and foster a sense of culture through the playing of indigenous games.”
Men In Deed would appreciate sponsors or any assistance to help in preparing the team for the provincial challenges.
For more information, contact Theo on 076 926 1883 or Sphiwe on 067 378 3805.
