The inaugural basketball tournament for the physically challenged at the Yusuf and Prakash and Napier Complex, Ext 3, Lenasia, on Saturday, 20 June was a resounding success.
Philedelfia tops basketball tourney
By Mems Moosa
On the day, six basketball teams slugged it out in the initial stage for a place to the next stage. Teams: Puma, Philadelfia, Wizards and Wings progressed to the next round. Philadelfia and Wizards eventually contesting the finals. In this augural event, the first ever South of Gauteng, Wizards displayed tremendous agility, skills and determination to beat Philadelfia by a score of 23-12, and crowned champions.
Philadelfia won all their games and were worthy of being placed first in the tournament, and as winners took home a beautiful glass trophy and medals for each of their players. Lucas Sithole from the winning team bagged the player of the tournament award, whilst Sammy G, from the host club Lenasia Basket Team (LBT), scooped the most promising player award. Councillor Shaida Kazie had the following to state when she officially declared the event open, “Our endeavour is to make disable sport a success in Lenasia and its surrounds.”
The likes of international basketball referee Charles Vorster stated: “The high calibre of playing was i
mpressive, and this bodes well for the sport.” Wheelchair Basketball SA’s head – Richard Ndindwa said: “Tournaments of this nature bring the best of our players conduct and skills to the fore. The acceptance of the sport for the physically challenge augurs well to integrate the participants into the mainstream of society.”
This tournament was a success only due to the sponsorships received from various individuals and companies and the selfless effort on the part of the Lenasia Sports Council, Region G (Selwyn Francis) and the host Lenasia Basketball Team (LBT). The fine weather, support from volunteers, general public attendance and the high standard of basketball skills, all added to make this inaugural event a success. Interested individuals can join the ‘Dream Team’ – Lenasia Basketball, Chairperson Denzil David on 076 529 3056 or Secretary, Anees Cajee on 073 653 5389.