It’s the third quarter of their first match, and their opposing team has yet to feature on the scoreboard. When they do, the whole hall gives a loud cheer—they’ve fought hard for these first 2 points. Special Olympics Mali is just taking it in their stride—by final whistle the score is 46-18 for their opening match. Their winning streak for Games remained unbroken, and they just won their first gold medal in basketball for Special Olympics Mali—ever.
But at home, they’re far from being seen as winners, and people with intellectual disabilities in Mali have many more trials ahead of them, both on and off the court. They need these surprises to send a strong message.
When the delegation was received at the Ambassador of Mali to Germany’s residence on their arrival at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Her Excellency Oumou Sall Seck, predicted that, “I have a feeling their achievements will surprise many, and amplify our government’s message of sharing the joy of sport with all members of society, including those with intellectual disabilities.” And it has, as their achievements were featured with a special segment on national news station ORTM this week.
At Special Olympics, there’s a pride in quality coaching, and this female basketball team is a great example of that, with their coach Amara Sangare. “It’s their level of technical quality and engagement on the court that makes the biggest impression,” says Amadou Kouyate, commentator for BASKETMALI who is in Berlin covering the team. The results speak for themselves: the Lady Eagles’ (les Aigles Dames) wins in Level A were all with convincing leads. Tenin Samake, head of delegation for Special Olympics Mali, and Salimata Diakité, member of the team, who spoke to the basketball organizers during an interview, said: “The level at these Games is excellent, all facilities have been well provided for our athletes to do their best. We thank our Ministry for the long road of support they have given us to train hard attend these and other events as Special Olympics Mali.” The delegation also has Modibo Diakité and Aminata Doumbia representing in 100m athletics.
Perhaps the basketball team’s strength is no surprise, as the serving Chair of Special Olympics is none other than Hamchétou Maiga-Ba, former WNBA player, and Special Olympics International Board member representative for Africa Region. “From their achievements, we hope that families will stop hiding their children with intellectual disabilities inside their homes,” she said. “Let them go out, let them play. You’ll be amazed what they can do.”
