Betway has raised R80,000 for the South African Sport Association for the Physically Disabled (SASAPD) as part of the company’s
Nelson Mandela Day celebrations.
Acknowledging the global icon’s 67-years of selfless service in the fight against social injustice, Nelson Mandela Day is an opportunity for the country to come together to help make a difference. As part of these celebrations, Betway South Africa held a 67-minute football match with a commitment to donate R1,000 to the SASAPD for every goal scored.
The occasion was attended by the Betway 12
th Man graduates and SASAPD officials. The fun-filled event saw a total of R80,000 being raised for the needs of the association.
Betway South Africa’s Marketing Manager, David Rachidi explained that such initiatives are an important part of Betway’s social commitment to the communities in which it operates.
“The important role played by SASAPD is quite significant and ties back to the wise words of Nelson Mandela when he said that through sport, we have the power to change lives,” said Rachidi.
“As a brand that continues to take its social responsibility seriously, we are honoured and humbled to partner with SASAPD and lend a hand towards the wonderful work that they do for athletes.”
The SASAPD is the official governing body for sport for the physically challenged. It carries the significant responsibility of developing young athletes and organising national events to allow athletes to qualify for global competitions such as the Paralympics.
Most recently, the Association hosted its annual National Championships in Stellenbosch. The event catered for eight different sporting codes including Para Athletics, Para Swimming, Judo for the blind and Boccia.
SASAPD President, Moekie Grobbelaar, a former powerlifting gold medallist, explained that the money raised would go a long way in the development of athletes with special needs.
"Betway South Africa’s work with the SASAPD is only the most recent of the company’s ongoing community upliftment initiatives. The recent conclusion of the Betway 12th Man initiative saw 10 former footballers equipped with knowledge to allow them to thrive in a life after sport." Moekie Grobbelaar said.
Other community upliftment initiatives undertaken by Betway include an entry level coaching course for aspiring coaches in Mamelodi and the sponsorship of two football clubs for the elderly in Soweto.