‘Need to ensure we produce athletes who excel, not flee,’ Linda Zwane
Mpumalanga– President of Mpumalanga Sports Council (MSC), Linda Zwane highlighted a pressing need to find a new approach that will inspire Mpumalanga athletes to find meaning and enjoyment in their pursuit, than just focusing solely on results.
Zwane, also vice-president of the South African Football Association (SAFA), canvased this view at a ground-breaking high-performance sports development seminar held at Khayalami Hotel and Conference Centre in Mbombela on Friday, October 25.
“Resetting our approach ensures we produce athletes who excel, not flee,” he told the seminar that brought together esteemed dignitaries from South Africa’s sports landscape to explore pivotal themes enhancing athletic excellence.
Among the dignitaries were Mpumalanga MEC for culture, sport and recreation Leah Mabuza, SAFA technical director Walter Steenbok, SAFA medical officer Dr. Thulani Ngwenya and other influential figures.
Zwane also urged meaningful participation and setting achievable goals.
“We must set clear priorities, make a compelling case to the department and ensure federations and stakeholders are aligned. Everyone must contribute. We can’t achieve excellence without coordination,” he said.
The seminar highlighted the vital role of high-performance institutions in athletes’ careers, showcasing success stories from the Mpumalanga Academy of Sport (MAS).
Experts delved into operational sports academies, scouting processes and athlete placement.
Coaching education, athlete support systems and collaborative efforts between educational institutions, government, private sector and civil society were also discussed.
MEC Mabuza highlighted the critical role of open spaces in promoting healthy lifestyles, nurturing talent and fostering vibrant communities. “We must utilise open spaces for sporting activities, fostering healthy lifestyles, talent identification and community engagement,” she said.
She added that her department will work with municipalities to make sure that the 10% allocation from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) is strictly utilised for sporting infrastructure as a crucial step in realising this vision.
The seminar’s resolutions are expected to be incorporated into strategies enhancing high-performance sports in Mpumalanga and nationally.
