After a rigorous selection process, Marali Olën was appointed as Head of Classification earlier this year. There were a number of very strong candidates and World Boccia would like to thank everyone who applied.
Marali is an experienced physiotherapist. She currently works as an Educational Therapist at a school for children with a range of disabilities. She organises sport within the school and coaches boccia and para-athletics.
Marali began her journey as a boccia classifier in 2003 when she attended the SASAPD South African National Championships as a classifier. She then became a fully qualified World Boccia International Classifier in 2013 and started classifying at sanctioned events the year after. During this time, she was also involved in classifier education, initially within para-athletics and later boccia. Marali joined the World Boccia Classification Committee in 2023.
World Boccia are very pleased with the appointment. CEO Paul Trayner said – “Classification is the most critical of functions in Paralympic sport and we are delighted to welcome Marali to the role of World Boccia Head of Classification. With a wealth of knowledge in multiple sports and having sat on the committee for the past 18 months, Marali brings a great deal of experience to the role and we, very much, look forward to working with her.”
Marali has already been working on a number of projects in her new role including inputting into the design of classification related functions in the new membership platform and supporting trainee classifiers.
In respect of her appointment as Head of Classification, Marali stressed the importance of classification within the sport –“By ensuring excellence and integrity in the classification process, the focus remains steadfast on advancing the sport of boccia while supporting classifiers as a cohesive team in their crucial role. Together, we champion fair competition, uphold the highest standards, to empower athletes to thrive on the world stage, fulfilling their aspirations.”
Paul Trayner, would also like to thank Shail Maharaj on behalf of World Boccia – “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Shail for stepping up when required and fulfilling the role of Head of Classification with dedication and professionalism. Shail will continue as a valuable member of the Classification Committee, which will allow for continuity and a smooth transition.”
