Photo Credit: Lions Cricket
Central Gauteng Lions onboard a psychologist to further empower their trophy hunt.
The Central Gauteng Lions (CGL) have secured the services of Lloyd Bemelman, a former South African Rower with a Masters of Science in Applied Sports and Exercise Psychology.
The healthy mind of an individual within an organisation, be it a debtors clerk, top order batsman, physiotherapist or a CEO is critical for the harmony of that organisation. With that in mind, the CGL further bolstered their medical team with the inclusion of a psychologist specialising in sport as together they look to improve the culture of mental wellness from pipeline to professional.
Ziyaad Mohamed, the CGL men’s physiotherapist says that the introduction of sports psychology into the CGL space is a ground breaking development; “The intersection between physical activity and mental well-being is so often overlooked.
I believe that sports psychology would help players cope with competitive anxiety, improve mental skills and preparation for competition and in doing so would positively impact on practice efficiency, coping with adversity, performing under pressure and maintaining confidence.”
Lloyd Bemelman says he feels incredibly humbled to be part of a professional organisation;
“My first few days on the job have been most rewarding with Craig Govender introducing me to his support team, all of whom have brought me rapidly up to speed. Meeting superstar coaches Russell Domingo and Hashim Amla was a moment I will never forget. I feel welcomed by the players and notice a definite camaraderie and common vision here. Going forward I strive to understand every Pride member fully and look forward to working alongside them as we aim to win in all that we do.”
Lloyd will join forces with Lions Cricket Sports Physician Dr Dhavina Naidoo, who shares a special interest in mental health and has recently completed a qualification in the field.
“With their combined qualifications and the work currently underway by the CGL in regards to Industrial Psychology and thus improvement to the entire organisation, all bods well for a stronger “minded” ecosystem,” comments Director of the Wanderers Sports Medical Centre Craig Govender.
Discovery Vitality Chief Operating Officer Joe Van Niekerk further supports the appointment;
“I have known Lloyd for several years and have had dealings with him on both a personal and professional level. Lloyd has been coaching my son who is a professional sportsman and he has helped with senior leadership coaching at Discovery. Lloyd has helped my son tremendously in his growth as sportsman, and it is evident to see his transformation. An athlete can only reach their full potential with a combination of physical and mental preparation and Lloyd certainly contributes to the latter. Similarly, colleagues who have worked with Lloyd on leadership coaching have been extremely complimentary. Lloyd is a level headed individual who is dedicated to his craft and I can only see him benefit the Wanderers Sports Medical Centre and Lions Cricket. Sports Psychology has a place in professional sport and I know he can make a difference.”
Commencing immediately, Lloyd will share his expertise throughout the Lions family, from development teams right through to the DP World Lions ladies and mens teams.
