In a heartening collaboration, global chemicals and energy company Sasol partnered with Wheelchair Basketball South Africa (WBSA) to commemorate World Disability Month during the 2023 School U19 National Championships for Girls on Sunday, December 10, 2023. The event aimed to celebrate the achievements of athletes with disabilities and inspire young players to pursue their dreams in wheelchair basketball, emphasizing that their aspirations are valid and attainable.
The festivities unfolded with motivational talks from esteemed Wheelchair Basketball players, including Captain Michelle Moganedi and her teammates Palesa Moment and Lizalo Gwadana. These accomplished athletes, who recently represented South Africa and the African continent at the IWBF U25 World Championship in Bangkok, Thailand, shared their experiences and encouraged aspiring players to persevere and excel in their chosen sport.
The highlight of the day was a 5×5 exhibition game featuring WBSA legends and current senior players. This showcase not only demonstrated the skill and intensity of wheelchair basketball but also underscored the opportunities available within the sport. Additionally, able-bodied hoop challenges were incorporated to emphasize the physical and mental strength required by players, dispelling misconceptions about the ease of the game.
Dean Somerset, Sasol Manager: Brand and Sponsorship, expressed the company’s excitement about the partnership with WBSA, stating, “This month is all about celebrating and raising awareness of athletes that are differently abled, and this partnership of many years ensures we provide opportunities to these athletes to make it onto the global stage.” He emphasized Sasol’s commitment to supporting wheelchair basketball, acknowledging the potential for talent identification among the young participants.
Siphamandla Gumbi, AmawheelieGirls and AmawheelaBoys assistant coach, expressed WBSA’s pride in the collaborative effort, stating, “We are extremely proud of what we have achieved today, working with Sasol to make sure that the young girls here today living with disabilities are acknowledged.” Gumbi highlighted the importance of recognizing Disability Month, promoting inclusion, and ensuring that both the sport and its athletes receive the acknowledgment they deserve.
The event served as a powerful testament to the possibilities within wheelchair basketball and the commitment of Sasol and WBSA to foster inclusivity, break boundaries, reach their full potential.
