![Team Western Cape brought an exciting spirit to the Games by singing together. Team Western Cape brought an exciting spirit to the Games by singing together.](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/team_western_cape_brough_an_exciting_spirit_to_the_games_by_singing_together.jpg)
A number of individual Western Cape team members made the province proud at the National Indigenous Games Festival held in Pretoria from 20 to 24 September 2013.
Jukskei exponents Chantal Swarts (best female player), Inwaan Malgas (best male player), Chuma Qumza (third best coach) and Kamvalethu Gioveni (third best manager) were honoured for their achievements. They all received ministerial certificates.
KwaZulu-Natal was the top provincial team. The Western Cape finished in seventh place overall, with other results as follows:
Mr Jerome Arendse, Western Cape Indigenous Games Chef de Mission, is proud of the team. “Our players worked hard and were determined to win. For each and every one, this was a learning experience.” He welcomed the idea of structured leagues in which players and coaches can consistently work on improving their skills.
Team managers stressed the importance of players being completely up to date with game rules. Some players made errors that could have been avoided, simply because they were not familiar with current rules.
Intonga player Brian Johnson said it was an honour for him to represent his province. “I had a fun-filled experience, made new friends and am grateful for this opportunity. I hope to return to the Games next year as a better player.”
Players have been exposed to competition at a national event, and learned many lessons on and off the field. Future provincial teams will enter the national Games more prepared, more motivated and more determined to win.
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and the team management are confident that their ongoing support for indigenous games in the Western Cape gives players valuable opportunities. It also gives space for this valuable part of our national cultural heritage to flourish.
Tania Colyn
Acting Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877
E-mail: tania.colyn@westerncape.gov.za