DCSR MEC Ms Leah Mabuza delivering a keynote address during 7th Edition of Mpumalanga Sport Awards in Emalahleni on Saturday Night. Picture Credit: DCSR
By Thulane Madalane
Emalahlani – The 7th edition of the Mpumalanga Sport Awards was a resounding celebration of athletic achievement and community spirit, held this past weekend. In her opening remarks, Ms. Leah Mabuza of the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation set the tone for the evening, emphasizing the foundational role of partnership in driving success.
“We pay tribute to the private sector for the unwavering support and immense contribution to sport development,” Mabuza stated, recognizing corporate investment as a fundamental pillar for nurturing talent and achieving excellence on the provincial and national stage.
The awards ceremony took on added significance with the thrilling success of local football clubs. Both TS Galaxy and Casric Stars secured spots in the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup, setting the stage for a potential all-Mpumalanga final. Mabuza highlighted this achievement as a testament to the province’s growing prowess, noting that “all roads lead to Mpumalanga” for a weekend dedicated to sporting glory and provincial pride.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, the event served as a powerful reminder of sport’s unifying force. Mabuza connected the celebration to broader societal values, particularly as it coincided with the national observance of Human Rights Day. She articulated a vision where sport transcends competition, stating, “The Mpumalanga Sport Awards… embody a vision that brings together people and nations worldwide through the universal language of sport.”
This vision, she explained, is anchored in fostering social cohesion and setting ambitious goals for the future. The evening also reinforced the timeless link between physical and mental well-being, with Mabuza echoing the adage that “a healthy mind dwells in a healthy body,” underscoring sport’s vital role in building healthier, stronger communities.
Under the stewardship of Premier Hon. Mandla Ndlovu, the provincial government welcomed athletes, administrators, and fans to the celebration, which also paid homage to iconic teams like the Orlando Pirates Football Club. The province itself—a hub of energy, wildlife wonders like the Kruger National Park, and breathtaking natural sites such as the Blyde River Canyon—provided a majestic backdrop for the festivities.
The 7th edition of the Mpumalanga Sport Awards proudly honored exceptional individuals and teams for their outstanding achievements. Winners included:
- Sport Administrator of the Year: Melony Degenaar
- Technical Official of the Year: Ambros Sgudu
- Sport Fan of the Year (Voted): Xolani “Dube 22” Sibiya
- Youth/Junior Sport Star of the Year: Amelia Sehar
- Youth/Junior Sport Team of the Year: Mpumalanga Karate U14/U15 Team
- Provincial Federation of the Year: Athletics Mpumalanga
- Coach of the Year: Conwell Mkhonto
- Sportwoman of the Year: Mbali Hlatshwayo
- Sportman of the Year: Richman Mabena
- Sportman of the Year with Disability: Collen Mahlalela
- Sportwoman of the Year with Disability: Yane Van Der Merwe
- People’s Choice Sportstar of the Year (Voted): Mbali Hlatshwayo
- Sportstar of the Year: Richman Mabena
A poignant highlight of the evening was the presentation of a special MEC Award to Mr. Linda Zwane, President of the Mpumalanga Sports Confederation and Vice President of the South African Football Association. The award recognized his lifetime of dedication to sports administration in the province. In his acceptance, Zwane expressed both surprise and gratitude.
“The award is recognition of the work that one has done from the inception in the administration of football and sports in Mpumalanga,” stated Zwane. “I must say that I was surprised that the MEC chose to confer this award to me, however I am grateful. I want to thank everyone who has been supporting me, my wife and my children. “
As the ceremony concluded with a standing ovation for the Mpumalanga sports community, the message was clear. The awards are more than an annual event; they are a catalyst for continued development, a source of immense pride, and a call to action to harness the power of sport for unity and progress.
