Soccer teams shine in ground-breaking friendly matches
The games featured both men and women athletes, and athletes with disabilities, underscoring the event's commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities.
THE Hamalaya Sport Grounds in Merebank witnessed an electrifying display of soccer prowess as various teams, including players with disabilities, took part in a series of hard-hitting friendly matches on August 16.
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The event, which featured clubs from across the greater eThekwini area, was organised by Durban and Coastal Mental Health (DCMH).
In a thrilling encounter, the Merebank Challenge faced off against the Shallcross Challenge team. Despite their valiant efforts, the Merebank Challenge fell short, with Shallcross Challenge emerging victorious with a score of 3–1.
Lungisani Mthiyane, the spokesperson for Durban and Coastal Mental Health, highlighted the significance of the event.
“The primary goal of these games is to foster a sense of inclusivity for people with disabilities within the community,” Mthiyane explained. “Previously, these clubs engaged in individual games, but this year, we decided to bring them all together for a unified friendly match. By doing so, we aim to bridge the gap between the broader community and those living with disabilities through the unifying power of sport. This is the first time we’ve hosted such an event, and we hope to continue this tradition in the future,” said Mthiyane.
“The event not only showcased the competitive spirit of the participants but also underscored the importance of inclusion and community cohesion. As the final whistle blew, it was clear that today’s matches had achieved more than just sporting success; they had created a platform for unity and mutual respect.”
Meanwhile, the eThekwini Municipality is proudly hosting the KZN Provincial Disability Games every year – a vibrant celebration of athleticism and inclusion taking place across various venues in the region.
The event offers individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in a diverse range of recreational and sporting activities, showcasing their talents and determination.
Participants from across provincial districts come together to compete in eight distinct sporting codes. These include deaf and intellectually impaired players of soccer and netball, wheelchair basketball, athletics, uMlabalaba, chess, table tennis and goalball.
The games feature both men and women athletes, underscoring the event’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities.
The KZN Provincial Disability Games aim to promote a greater sense of community and support for athletes with disabilities, providing a platform for them to demonstrate their skills and compete in a supportive environment.
The event has been met with enthusiasm from participants and spectators alike, highlighting the positive impact of sports on fostering unity and empowerment.
With various venues across eThekwini serving as the backdrop for these competitions, the games are not only a showcase of athletic talent but also a testament to the municipality’s dedication to supporting and celebrating diversity through sport.
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