Athletics legend calls on athletes to attend the Athletes Indaba

Athletics legend calls on athletes to attend the Athletes Indaba

Athletics South Africa (ASA) board member and Chair of the Athletes Commission, Hendrick Mokganyetsi, emphasised the significance of participating in the national Athletes Indaba.

The event, hosted by ASA, is scheduled for January.

In response to Stephen Mokoka’s recent statement to the national broadcaster expressing concerns about his safety and criticizing the ASA board for alleged neglect, Mokganyetsi urged athletes to participate in the upcoming Indaba in the New Year actively.  

Despite denying Mokoka’s accusations, Mokganyetsi urged athletes to seize the opportunity to voice their concerns and seek the necessary assistance.

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“We possess a platform that empowers athletes to express their concerns, and no hindrances prevent them from utilizing it. We plan to conduct a session at the beginning of the year, encouraging all athletes to participate. Without their proactive engagement and communication, we remain unaware of the challenges they are facing. Athletes need to step forward and articulate their concerns for us to comprehend and address them effectively. As a board, our purpose is not to engage in conflicts with athletes but rather to provide guidance and support. Our upcoming Indaba in January serves as an opportunity for collective progress, enabling us to tackle and resolve pertinent issues on this shared platform,” said Mokganyetsi during his interview with SABC Sport.

“Allow me to provide a firm assurance and guarantee that Mokoka will not face any victimization. If he secures a spot on the team, he will undoubtedly participate in the Olympics. No individual will be subjected to mistreatment for raising concerns. Mokoka should proceed without fear, confident that not only will he be part of the team, but we are committed to supporting him and others who qualify,” clarified Mokganyetsi, the three-time 400m Olympian.