University of Limpopo Shines at National Goalball Tournament

by Keyaka Magazine | Aug 29, 2025 | Campus Life, Sports

By Welani Ntsako

The University of Limpopo’s Disability Centre hosted a thrilling two-day National Goalball Tournament on August 23–24, 2025, at the New Cinema Hall (NCH) on campus. The event brought together top teams from high schools for the deaf and blind, colleges, and universities, including North-West University. The tournament opened with great energy, with the University of Limpopo teams making a strong impression.

University of Limpopo’s Male Group in action ,showcasing their skills and determination on the court. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane

Austin Mukhethwa, Chairperson of Disability Sports, explained: “Goalball is a team sport for the blind and visually impaired, where two teams of three players roll a ball containing bells into the opponent’s net. Players defend by blocking the ball with their bodies, relying on sound to play.”

The women’s team dominated their opponents, defeating Thibuloha School for the Deaf and Blind 12–2. (Thibuloha’s players wore dark blue uniforms.) In a closely contested match, they went on to edge Matheo FET College 4–3. (Matheo’s players were dressed in yellow, black, and dark blue uniforms.)

University of Limpopo’s Male Group A triumphs over Mateo College with a thrilling 9-7 win at the Goalball National Tournament, followed by jubilant celebrations after a hard-fought victory. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane

The men’s team also impressed, securing victories of 9–7 against Matheo College 2 and 7–2 against Setotolwane. Team member Tshedza Blessing Mashau expressed pride in her teammates, saying: “I am very proud of my team because they always fight to win, not to lose. Even when they don’t win, I know they put in so much effort to keep the name of the University of Limpopo shining.”

With the women’s team reaching the semifinals and both squads performing strongly, the University of Limpopo’s showing at the tournament underscored its commitment to promoting disability sports and empowering students with disabilities. The success of the event also points to the university’s potential as a future host for national sporting competitions, offering students a platform to showcase their talents on a bigger stage.