Sports Development
Two local IsAbility Sports Club members, Sheryl James and Masala Makatu, were recently selected to attend a GAPS Commonwealth Training Programme at the High Performance Centre of the University of Stellenbosch.
The GAPS Commonwealth Sport Programme aims to support the development of inclusive sport pathways and, according to its mission statement, the development of coaches is fundamental, but so is tackling the many barriers and constraints that prevent participation. The goal of GAPS is to offer emerging athletes and coaches from the Commonwealth access to additional skills, knowledge and resources.
Sheryl attended in the capacity of coach and Masala in the capacity of athlete. The programme, which took place from 9 to 17 July, sought to identify both coaches and athletes with potential on the international platform. Participants were coaches and their athletes with the potential to qualify for the Commonwealth Games in 2026, and the programme was specific to para-athletics in sprinting, throwing and powerlifting.
Sheryl and Masala reported that the programme had been very intensive and demanding, but extremely thorough and expertly delivered. Activities at the camp equipped coaches with hands-on knowledge, ranging from biomechanics and rehabilitation strength and conditioning in the gym, to event-specific training. Athletes underwent medical and other assessments to ensure good health and, in the case of strength and event trials and tests, coaches were able to return home with strategies tailored to their own athletes' needs to help them perform more optimally and with greater strength.
Sheryl mentioned that this was a great opportunity to learn and demonstrate potential. Thirteen countries were represented at the camp. The Commonwealth Games provide a unique opportunity for para-athletes to share the platform with some of the elite athletes known on the Olympic stage, as well as those from other sporting codes such as sevens rugby, netball, hockey and swimming, among others.
According to Sheryl, participation in the camp in no way guarantees inclusion in the Commonwealth Games, but it does help to equip coaches and athletes with tools, including a valuable communication network. All participants must continue working hard in order to qualify for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will be held in Glasgow, Scotland. The qualifying period ends in March 2026.