Avios, the travel rewards programme, handed over 25 000 discs to the South African Flying Disc Association (SAFDA) at Reddam House in Johannesburg, during its annual Gauteng Schools Tournament.
The donation of the bright green discs – the colour of which represents Avios’ recent partnership with kulula.com, allowing members to earn points when booking flights with the local airline – has been given in support of a unique, affordable and exciting sport called Ultimate which.
According to Jay Hart, SAFDA vice chair and avid South African Ultimate player – is about to explode onto the South African and world scene.
“Ultimate really is a fun and exciting sport which all children should be introduced to.
“It’s easy to start and to understand – all you need is an open field and a flying disc to play. It’s often played as a mixed‐gender sport, which promotes mutual respect and gender equality.
“The sport is played without a referee, even at the highest level ‐ promoting honesty, respect and integrity,” said Hart.
Head of Markets at Avios South Africa, Juliet Xavier said: “The importance of sport within schools encompasses more than just the physical benefits.
Ultimate provides pupils with the opportunity to grow their social skills, develop their self-esteem and to foster a sense of achievement and sportsmanship towards their peers.
“Avios fully supports SAFDA’s efforts in expanding Ultimate into schools throughout the country and hopes that this donation will give them the footing they need to propel this dream forward,” said Xavier.
Following the influx of flying discs made available through Avios’ donation, SAFDA is initiating a national call for new projects to expand their initiative.
If you would like to find out how you could help develop Ultimate with SA youth, in schools and in poor and marginalised communities, contact SAFDA on safda.secretary@gmail.com.
