Sasol Place was abuzz with excitement as the South African Men’s under-23 wheelchair basketball team, set for the IWBF Africa Northern Region Tournament in Libya, met with Sasol’s Senior Vice President Corporate Affairs, Rightwell Laxa. The event celebrated the team’s achievements and allowed the Sasol community to show their support before they head off to Libya.
Mr Laxa praised the team and Wheelchair Basketball South Africa, saying, “Having heard about all the good work that is being done by Wheelchair Basketball South Africa and its national teams, I am deeply impressed by the excellence that permeates through the organisation. Your commitment to the sport and to developing future talent is truly commendable. I am aware that both the senior men’s and women’s teams, as well as the U-23 men’s and women’s teams, have proudly represented South Africa on global stages. It is inspiring to see such dedication and excellence across all levels of competition.”
Gerrie Smith, High Performance and Coaching Director at Wheelchair Basketball South Africa expressed his gratitude for the recognition and shared insights on the team’s morale. “We are honoured to be celebrated by Sasol and to receive such heartfelt support. The team spirit is incredibly high as we prepare for the 2024 IWBF Africa U-23 Men’s Northern Region Tournament, a qualification tournament for the 2025 IWBF Africa U-23 Men’s World Championship Qualifiers which will be held in Cairo, Egypt from 20-30 January 2025. The players are motivated and ready to showcase their talent and hard work on an international stage.”
The event underscored the strong partnership between Sasol and Wheelchair Basketball South Africa, highlighting a shared commitment to excellence and the development of sports talent in the country.
“As the under-23 team heads to Libya to participate in the tournament from the 3-6 August 2024, they carry with them the hopes and support of the entire Sasol community”, Mr Laxa concluded.
For regular updates on the tournament follow:
Facebook: @Sasol in Sport
Twitter: @SasolinSport
Facebook: @WheelchairBasketballSA
Twitter: @amawheelaBBall
Instagram: wheelchairbasketball_sa