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Special Olympics South Africa athlete Nhlanhla William “Jimmy” Masina has been selected as an official for the sport of floor hockey at the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho, USA. Masina is the first athlete from the Africa region to be selected for this role. “Jimmy's selection is a strong testament to the talents and abilities of individuals with intellectual disability,” said Dr. John Dow, Jr., Managing Director of Special Olympics Africa.
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Special Olympics South Africa athlete Nhlanhla “Jimmy” Masina (left), one of the Program's most experienced floor hockey officials, has been selected to officiate at the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho. |
Being selected as an official for the World Games marks another milestone on a long journey toward acceptance, inclusion and empowerment for Masina. He was born in Brakpan, South Africa, on 11 April 1981 and raised by his grandmother, Maggie Thomo, in Tsakane. It was during his early years at Kombihlela Primary School that teachers discovered that Masina had a learning disability and transferred him to Matshediso School for Learners with Special Education Needs.
Masina also struggled at home, and for years he had to endure his younger sisters and brothers referring to him as “mad.” However, through skills training and support at Matshediso School, he was able to take on a meaningful role at the school, learning and later teaching sewing to other students with intellectual disability.
After being introduced to Special Olympics in the late 1990s, Masina immediately started competing in various sports, including football (soccer) and athletics, but it was floor hockey that really captured his attention. He not only progressed to become a senior and very skilful player but, after attending a two-day course in officiating, he is now one of Special Olympics South Africa's most senior and experienced officials, officiating at numerous provincial and national events. His selection to officiate at the 2009 World Games came as no surprise to fellow Special Olympics South Africa officials who know him to be accurate and level-headed even during the most heated competition.
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Masina (foreground) continues to pursue his dream of becoming an official in more Special Olympics sports in addition to floor hockey. |
Masina is quick to acknowledge that Special Olympics helped him overcome his challenges, as it was at Special Olympics competitions where he met other athletes like him, many of whom were also labeled as “mad.” “In Special Olympics, everyone is special and that's why I love it so much,” declares Masina. He credits Special Olympics for giving him the confidence to tackle his challenges head-on and have no fear as he pursues his dream of becoming an official in more Special Olympics sports.
The Special Olympics Officials Program for Athletes (SOOPA) provides athletes the opportunity to take on new roles and responsibilities. After completing a training course in officiating and being certified by the appropriate sports governing body, athletes can serve as officials at Special Olympics competitions and events outside the movement.
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