POLOKWANE - Sports personalities received awards for their contribution towards the the development of various sporting codes across the province from the Premier, Mr Sello Moloto. The event was held at Meropa Casino Hotel last Friday.

According to Moloto, the main purpose of recognising individuals involved in the promotion of sporting activities in the province is to motivate and encourage them to continue involving themselves in sports.

“As government, we have the right to motivate personalities committed to doing good things in our communities to benefit other people,” he said. He encouraged those who did not receive awards to work harder in order to get something they deserve in future.

Moloto further appealed to the recipients of the awards to do more as the provincial government regards them as role models for young people. The MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Joe Maswanganyi, encouraged the award recipients to work for the development of the country as they are seen as ambassadors of the entire province. He acknowledged the achievements of South African sports stars like Mbulaheni Mulaudzi, Janus Robberts, Lyndon Ferns, Hendrick Ramaala and others who come from Limpopo.

Nine individuals received special awards for their contribution to the development of sports in Limpopo, the country and internationally. They include Leonard Chuene, Dr Joe Phaahla, Dr Malumbete Ralethe, Michael Moloto and the former South African netball president, Ms Muditambi “Ntambi”Ravele, who is currently the PSL General Manager: Marketing and Corporate Communication.

From the electronic media, James Tshikwambane of Munghanana Lonone FM, Kgadi Monama of Thobela FM, Tshlilo “Chiraiza” Nelufule of Phalapha FM, and Thilivhali “Big T” Muavha of Univen FM received awards, while Mcelwa Nchabeleng of Sowetan and Kaizer Nengovhela, correspondent of Limpopo Mirror, both from the printed media, were also rewarded.

Managers and coaches of different sporting codes who received awards include Mr Solly Luvhengo the assistance coach of two national teams (U/12 and U/17), the South African U/17 goalkeeper trainer, Mr Colly Chauke, Mr Kirsten Nematandani, SAFA competition manager and Mr Frans Mogashoa. The ageing boxing developer, Mr Mukanda Madzivhandila, received an award for developing boxing in the province.

Four people were posthumously awarded: Thobela FM presenter, Ike Murudu, who passed away a fortnight ago in car accident, Mr Silas Kgoeng, Mr Daniel Matsimela and Mr Moses Makwela.

The South African U/23 soccer player, Luvhengo Mngomeni, and Tshifhiwa Mathase, goalkeeper of the Orlando Pirates Development team, also went home with an award each from the Premier.