MUZI MKHALIPHI INTRODUCES THE ART OF ROLLER SKATING IN THE TOWNSHIP.

When Muzi Mkhaliphi (37) was introduced to roller skating in 1996 by Ntombifuthi Dlamini, he found his feet in the world of skaters and hasn’t looked back since. Muzi has had, a successful 23 years as a professional skater, making a staple name for himself. He has won a bronze medal at a junior level, 3 gold medals, and also competed in the world’s largest roller skating marathon in Berlin, where he secured himself a 350th spot out of the 1500 skaters that were competing in the marathon in 2015-2018, respectively.

Mkhalipha shares his decisions to promote the rare sport in his community, Soshanguve. “Roller skating is an unpopular sport in our community, and in 1999 together with my partner, Zanele Napo, we decided to promote the sport here in Soshanguve, in a bid, not only to introduce the community to the sport but also make opportunities available in it, and Sosha Roller skating club was born.

In 2004, I decided to become head coach and we have 15 members signed to our club, 3 adults and 12 children, whom I am proud of”. One of the many challenges that Muzi and his partner Zanele face is appealing to the community that one can make a career out of the sport. “Unlike soccer, netball and cricket, most people are not keen in the sport, and most parents have shown lack of interest in the sport, however, we work tirelessly to break the stereotype and expose it to our communities at large”.

Amongst other challenges that the club has faced is the financial backup to successfully run the club, with the help from National Roller Skating Federation and National Lottery Foundation it has eased the burden for Muzi to continue to run the club and also afforded him the opportunity to compete globally.

He also offers private lessons from as little as R150.00 per class. To offer donations to the club in a form of funds, helmets and speed suits or wish to join the club, kindly contact Muzi Mkhaliphi or Zanele Napo on Facebook: Muzi skater MkhaliphI or Sosha roller skating club, Email : muzironny@gmail.com or Contact no: 0766142448

By: MEGAN SELLO.