Football fever hits Special Olympics South Africa, as “The Ball” arrives 4 days before kick off

 

With football fever tangible in every corner of this country and just days before the official kick off of the historic 2010 FIFA World Cup, Special Olympics South Africa athletes and staff prepare to welcome ‘The Ball’ which has made an epic journey across Europe and Africa.

 

“The Ball”, football’s equivalent to the Olympic torch, was the brainchild football enthusiasts Andrew Aris and Christian Wach who founded Spirit of Football. Every 4 years, they invite people from all walks of life to share in the joy of participation and of football by engaging individuals and groups along their journey from Battersea Park, England to the host city of the World Cup.

 

The Ball began its ambitious journey with a celebrity football match at the launch in Sandton in November 2009. MaNtuli Zuma kicked off the match between Special Olympics South Africa athletes, former Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana players including Mark Fish, Lucas Radebe, Shaun Bartlett and Janine Van Wyk and the Team from 94.7 led by Darren “Whackhead” Simpson. With the support of logistical sponsor DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, The Ball then left Battersea Park on the 24^th of January and has made its way across Europe and 20 African states on route to South Africa. DHL through its world renowned logistical excellence ensured that “The Ball” was delivered on time to all planned events.

 

In each country, The Ball has been welcomed by Special Olympics athletes who have demonstrated their skill and the power of inclusion by having the ball participate in Unified Football matches involving athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.

 

Arriving in South Africa on 8 June, The Ball made by partner Alive and Kicking, will be escorted by DHL Express to Signet Terrace, Lenasia where it will find the back of the net in a 5-a-side ladies soccer tournament featuring Special Olympics South Africa athletes from across the city and Banyana Banyana players. Spectators are encouraged to witness The Ball’s arrival and share in the festivities of this unique event, which will be hosted by Graeme Joffe.

 

 

For more information please contact Thembile McKnight on 011 7838533 or thembi@specialolympics.org.za

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