Each and every sport has different visual requirements. A simple measure of the visual acuity (the ability to see 20/20 on an eye chart) is definitely not a measure of the performance ability of an athlete to play sport at an advanced or senior level.

Other factors such as contrast sensitivity – the ability to see fine details at a distance (e.g. on a golf course); dynamic visual acuity (as opposed to static visual acuity) – the quality of vision whilst running in relation to a moving objects (to perceive obstacles, the ball, opponents or teammates) and focus flexibility – the ability to focus quickly and accurately from a near to a far object and back with speed, accuracy and clarity. The importance of coordination of eye hand and body, reaction time to visual stimuli and peripheral-central vision co-operation cannot be overemphasized.

One takes for granted that the eyes require no correction, as one has never had the experience of seeing or performing better. Often individuals are amazed at the difference that correct eyewear, visual training and vision coaching can make to the performance on the field.

An important factor in playing any sport, especially those involving fast moving objects or contact sports, is protection against injury. Specialised advice as to correct protective eyewear, contact lenses types and defensive techniques is essential to avoid strain or injury to the visual apparatus of the eye and surrounds.

Peter Heinrich did a course in Sports Vision in 2003, passing cum laude at the Rand Afrikaans University (now University of Johannesburg) in order to advise and plan strategies for the sportsmen and women in the best, safest and optimal visual aids to their particular sports.

Lesley Vink is a qualified PADI diving instructor, and with her husband Wouter, has their own Dive Shop and offer courses and specialized dive tours. She, together with our Optical Technician Wayne, has perfected the fitting of lenses, both single vision and bifocal to the inside of the safety glass of diving goggles using specially cut lenses and transparent resin glue. She also fits daily disposable contact lenses for one time use for diving in polluted waters or for convenience with seaside dive sites.