Stellenbosch University, Maties Sport are proud of the inclusion of our athletes and staff that are representing Team South Africa at the Paralympic Games taking place in Paris from 28 August to 8 September.
The Maroon Machine outfit make up 20% of the South African team at the Games which is a remarkable feat. The Paralympics is an elite international sports event for athletes with disabilities, paralleling the Olympic Games in its competitive spirit and prestige. Team South Africa has been a proud participant, showcasing remarkable talent and resilience on this global stage.
South African athletes have consistently delivered impressive performances, excelling in various sports including athletics, swimming, and wheelchair basketball. The South African Paralympic team is known for its strong work ethic, teamwork, and dedication, embodying the spirit of overcoming challenges and pushing the boundaries of human potential. Their participation not only highlights individual and team achievements but also serves to inspire and promote greater inclusivity and awareness within the global sporting community.
A breakdown of the Maties club members, alumni and staff present at the Paralympic Games are as follows:
Maties Athletes Representing Team SA
- Kerwin Noemdo (shot put)
- Daniel du Plessis (athletics)
- Paul Daniels (athletics)
- Christian Sadie (swimming)
SU Staff Representing Team SA
- Daniel Damon (field coach)
- Ilhaam Groenewald (Chief Director: Maties Sport & SASCOC Board Member)
- Dr Craig Thompson (team doctor)
- Prof Wayne Derman (medical director)
Kerwin Noemdo has made a remarkable impact in Paralympic shot put. Making his debut at Tokyo 2020, Kerwin secured 4th spot with his powerful throw narrowly missing on a medal. Kerwin will be competing in the F46 shot put at Paris 2024, ready to showcase his incredible skills.
Daniel du Plessis made a debut on the Paralymic stage at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Competing in the T62 400m and T64 100m, Daniel showcased his speed and endurance. His dedication and hard work are evident, and he’s now setting his sights on Paris 2024. Finalist in the 400m at Tokyo 2020, Daniel will compete in the T62 400m at Paris 2024.
Christian Sadie is a well-known swimming competitor who has won major honours including 2 medals at the Commonwealth Games (silver in 2018 and bronze in 2022) and also competed at the 2020 Paralympic Games showcasing his talents – his personal best in freestyle and butterfly include: 29.22 (men’s 50m freestyle S7) and 29.97 (men’s 50m butterfly S7). He will compete in the S7 and SM7 categories at this year’s Games.
Paul Daniels is a Grade 12 learner from Cloetesville Hoërskool and trains with the Maties para-athletes. He will compete in the T62 400m and T64 100m category. His peers and educators wished him all the best as he prepares to compete at his first Paralympic Games, coining this as a “once in a lifetime opportunity”.
For more details about our Team SA athletes and the categories they compete in, click here: https://www.teamsa.co.za/get-to-know-your-team-sa-paralympic-classifications/
By Maties Sport Media and Communications Unit
Photo credits: Team South Africa