Photo by [GoodThingsGuy]
Johannesburg – The junction of sports and politics has always been complex and contentious, with differing perspectives on whether politics should be intertwined with sports. However, one undeniable fact is that their convergence holds the potential to create societal transformation and bring about change.
Throughout history, sporting events have functioned as a platform for expressing political views, where athletes, teams, and spectators leverage their reputations to raise awareness about global injustices. In addition to raising awareness, these events have the power to foster unity among people.
An example is the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa, which coincided with the end of the Apartheid regime. Nelson Mandela recognised the tournament’s potential to unite a previously divided nation. Subsequently the Springboks came to symbolise determination, unity, and the enduring spirit of all South Africans.
Nevertheless, recent statements from sports organisations assert that politics has no place in sports. However, this assertion appears selective, depending on the specific politics involved.
For instance, during Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, blue and yellow flags adorned stadiums and team uniforms. All the while, moments of silence were observed in recognition of the situation, which was entirely appropriate.
However, these same organisations prohibited and banned Palestinian symbols to a significant extent, going so far as to stifle athletes who spoke out against Israeli war crimes.
Despite the apparent double standard in this proclamation, spectators have chosen not to adhere to it. A recent example of this defiance is Celtics FC openly and proudly displaying Palestinian flags while performing ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone,’ sending a solid message to a global audience and standing in solidarity with the Palestinians.
Padel for Palestine Campaign
Acknowledging the influence of sports within the political landscape, a group of young South Africans decided to organise a padel tournament as a show of support for the Palestinians.
The primary objective of this tournament is to shed light on the plight of the Palestinian people and generate funds which will be donated to humanitarian aid organisations operating in Palestine.
Considering the extensive appeal of padel, Naqiyah Valli, a spokesperson for the initiative, pondered the idea of harnessing the sport’s widespread popularity and the enthusiasm it garners to contribute to a noble cause.
“We as a collective group, Raheemah, myself and a few other people, are really involved in padel. I mean, everybody plays padel, every weekend and every day. So we thought it’s the best way to play padel. To do it for a good cause and still raise money and help our brothers and sisters in Palestine.”
SMread| SA daycare centres unite for Palestine
The Resounding Response to the Campaign
The tournament is scheduled to occur this weekend in Lenasia, Qurtuba, and various padel facilities in specific provinces. One of the main objectives of the tournament is to unite diverse groups of individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds, genders, or beliefs, to collectively demonstrate their commitment to the cause of humanity.
According to Raheema Kaka, the Founder of Miles for Smiles, more than 300 players have already confirmed their participation in the event spanning two days. Kaka, about her reaction, expressed no surprise at the enthusiastic response the campaign has garnered from the South African community, as people tend to make a concerted effort when a worthy cause is involved.
“We have 160 teams in total that are entering, 320 participants. It’s a pair that plays together. We’ve had this idea, and just with one or two posters, people were so keen and eager to get involved.”
Whether you are actively participating as a player or simply attending as a spectator, the campaign’s organisers strongly encourage everyone to join in for a righteous purpose. The call is for people to unite, proudly displaying, donning, and waving Palestinian colours, sending a powerful message to the world that we, as a collective, will not tolerate injustice.
