CITY CELEBRATES SPORTING EXCELLENCE

EThekwini Municipality, in partnership with the eThekwini Sport Confederation, proudly honoured the City’s sporting excellence at the inaugural eThekwini Recognition Sports Awards. The ceremony, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, celebrated the remarkable achievements of athletes, coaches, administrators, technical officials, volunteers and sporting organisations whose contributions continue to strengthen and grow sport across the Municipality.

The awards recognised individuals and organisations whose dedication, leadership and excellence have made a significant contribution to the development of sport at both grassroots and elite levels. Community-nominated sporting heroes who have made a lasting impact within their respective sporting codes were also honoured. Speaking at the ceremony, Chairperson of the Community Services Committee, Councillor Zama Sokhabase, congratulated all nominees and winners, describing them as ambassadors of sporting excellence and role models for future generations.

The winners were:

■ Recreation Innovation Award: Sathasivan Govender

■ Emerging Sport Accelerator Award: Nkosinathi Ngubane

■ Adaptive Sport Excellence Award: Sabelo Ngema

■ Rising Sport Star Award: Luyanda Gumede

■ Development Coach of the Year Award: Mfanafuthi Ntombela

■ Community Sport Hero Award: Ntethelelo Ngcobo

■ Youth Excellence in Development Award: Teme Aureliah Govender

■ District Sport Excellence Award: District 1

■ Technical Excellence Champion Award: Mandla Mkhize

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Mayoral Special Awards, recognising individuals whose exceptional contribution to sport has left a lasting legacy and continues to inspire athletes and communities across eThekwini.

The Mayoral Special Awards were received by Manqoba Mkhize, Joseph Kunene and EasyIn Young Swimming Development. EThekwini Municipality remains committed to investing in sport development programmes, nurturing local talent and creating opportunities that strengthen Durban’s position as South Africa’s premier sporting destination.

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