Lenasia’s First Wheelchair Basketball Team Organizes Tourney

By Mems Moosa

The latest sport code to be formally structured and affiliated to Southern Disabled Sports Association (SDSA) and accepted as a member to Wheelchair Basketball of South Africa (WBSA), will be organizing a tournament on 20 June, taking place at the Yusuf and Prakash Napier Complex, in Ext 3, Lenasia.

This unique tourney, hosted by Lenasia Wheel Basketball, consisting of 10 teams from all over the country, will be the first time that such an event for the physically challenged takes place, South of Johannesburg. This inaugural event will be preceded by an hour basketball refereeing lecture, for all who those interested in this game. The tourney has received unanimous blessings and unequivocal support from the Lenasia Sports Council - who will be playing a major role to launch this unique event, Region G (represented by Selwyn Francis), Lenasia Cycling Club, The Female Soccer Clubs of Lenasia, The Bowling Club of Lenasia, progressive Political Organizations of the area, youth groups and Schools.

Lenasia Wheelchair Basketball Team consists of 22 members and its secretary. Anees Cajee had the following to say, “This is an ideal opportunity to expose the physically challenge to sports and make  the public at large aware that being physical disabled does not preclude one from society, and sports is for all to participate in.” “The club is looking forward to meeting all the other teams, building new friendships, sharing our unique life style and make the public aware that being physically handicap does not mean that one cannot excel and enjoy life to its fullest. One has only to look at the likes of Oscar “Blade Runner” and appreciate that much can be achieved despite a physical ‘problem’, limited resources and prejudices of society,” chairperson Samir Asma added. Lenasia Brigade and a host of local dignitaries will be visible at lending support to such an important sports day in our calendar.

For further information on this tourney and to become a member of the Basketball Team (‘Dream Team’) contact chairperson - Denzil David on 076 529 3056 or Anees Cajee the Secretary - 073 653 5389.