Moreson school heads to inaugural Unified World Cup

Khomas Region’s Moreson Special School has qualified to represent the country at the Unified 3-on-3 Basketball World Cup in Puerto Rico from 5 to 7 December.The feat came after outstanding performances at the Unified Men’s 3-on-3 Basketball national qualifiers held by Special Olympics Namibia (SON) in Windhoek, where ten teams from Kavango East, Zambezi, Khomas and Oshana competed for top honours.According to the Special Olympics website, San Juan’s tournament will feature 20 men’s teams and 18 women’s teams from each Special Olympics region around the world for the International Basketball Federation (FIBA)-modelled showpiece.SON’s tournament used a division format, starting with skills tests before placing teams into two divisions – a more advanced first division and a second division – followed by round-robin matches.Moreson’s two teams – first and second team – came out on top to clinch gold in both the first and second divisions, respectively.How they qualifiedWith only one spot available for Namibia, a lucky draw was held by Special Olympics Namibia and Special Olympics Africa president Charles Nyambe to determine the qualifying team. Moreson’s first team was drawn.Reflecting on their teams’ victories and the chance to represent the country on the world stage, Moreson’s two coaches, Ndapandula Taylor and Hendrina Shoro, were elated.“The players had an amazing time. That is why we entered the competition. The victories are by God’s grace and were a bit of a surprise, given the limited practice time. They had to balance schoolwork, so winning gold in both divisions makes us truly proud,” they said.‘More medals’Looking ahead to December’s trip, where they will carry the country’s hopes and fly the flag high in Puerto Rico, the coaches said their mindset remains on players having fun.“We are going to have lots of fun. Special Olympics is about unity, where athletes with and without disabilities play together. We will enjoy the experience while aiming for more medals.”In the first division, silver went to the SON Khomas Centre’s first team, followed by Dagbreek School’s first team (Khomas) with bronze. Kavango East’s second team finished fourth and Dagbreek’s second team fifth.In the second division, Moreson’s second team took gold, followed by Kavango East’s first team, SON Khomas Centre’s second team, Oshana and Zambezi.‘Break down stigma’SON director Levien Smit praised the players for their display of “great basketball skills.”“The event provided an important platform for unified sports in the country. Athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities played alongside partners without disabilities,” Smit said.“We aim to break down stigma, foster understanding and build friendships through inclusion.”– mariud@nsh.com.na

Moreson school heads to inaugural Unified World Cup

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