Mahfuz wins Outstanding Achievement Award - News - Wandsworth School Games

Mahfuz wins Outstanding Achievement Award

Mahfuz Ahmad, a young deaf athlete from Oak Lodge School in Wandsworth, has been recognised for his sporting achievements at the Panathlon Challenge in 2012, by being awarded the Jack Petchey Outstading Achievement Award on Friday 16th November.

Mahfuz received his award from Jack Petchey CBE and Liz Johnson, Paralympic medal winner from London 2012 and thoroughly deserved his achievements being recognised by this high profile awards ceremony.

Mahfuz came to Oak Lodge School of the Deaf 18 months ago. Mahfuz is deaf and has severe athetoid cerebral palsy, to such an extent that communication through sign language is incredibly challenging.

His physical education at his previous school was very limited, as a result when he started Oak Lodge he was adamant that he didn’t like PE or sport.

His opinion was changed when he was given the opportunity to use adapted equipment and taught inclusive adapted sports such as Polybat and Boccia. Within weeks his balance and coordination was making great progress alongside his motivation and enthusiasm; he went from strength to strength over the year. By January, he was able to represent Wandsworth in the Panathlon Challenge Central London competition in 2012. He was outstanding and wanted to take part in every event. He participated in the Wandsworth Boccia team and won a gold medal. When the team leader asked for pupils to run in the relay he volunteered himself. We were all shocked at how fast and determined he was in this race and once again won gold!!

All the teachers at Oak Lodge, everyone at Wandsworth School Games and I are so proud of Mahfuz, having overcome such severe physical disability. His self confidence, motivation and determination continue to be an inspiration to all of us.

Holly Black, Oak Lodge School of the Deaf, Wandsworth

Edit Article