GolfRSA's hard work finally recognised with SA Sports Awards nomination

GolfRSA will compete against Tennis South Africa and Cricket South Africa in the Federation of the Year category. 

Van Schalkwyk admits it will be a tough battle and believes golf goes into the contest as the underdogs.

However, seeing golf receive national recognition is a proud moment for Van Schalkwyk. 

He says the nomination came as a surprise, but he is grateful that the federation’s tireless efforts to grow and promote the sport have not gone unnoticed.

"It's unreal, you can't believe it. it's actually heart warming to see that all the hard work you've put in is being recognised by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture. Since Covid and everything we've done exceptionally well and put in a lot of hard work so it's really heart warming to be nominated," said van Schalkwyk

READ: Sonja Schultz surprised by her SA Sports Awards nomination

Golf has made significant progress in South Africa, and Van Schalkwyk shared some of the federation’s biggest achievements over the past 12 months with SABC Sport.

Golf still faces challenges, including limited access to the sport in disadvantaged communities. 

However, Van Schalkwyk says GolfRSA  is working hard to break down those barriers and take the sport to more parts of the country. 

Van Schalkwyk also explained GolfRSA's funding model and revealed that businessman and GolfRSA chairman Johann Rupert is one of the federation’s major supporters.

"GolfRSA receives funding from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, The R&A and the National Lotteries Commission, enabling us to deliver national development initiatives such as the Tournament Support Programme, GolfSixes, the GolfRSA 9-Hole Challenge, Champion of Champions, the GolfRSA Education and Training Programme in collaboration with CMASA, a range of Women in Golf initiatives, and international participation opportunities for our players."

"Since 2015, GolfRSA Chairman Johann Rupert has funded the GolfRSA National Men's and Women's Squads, as well as the Qalisa Development Squad, providing talented young golfers with the support and opportunities they need to reach their full potential."

GolfRSA’s next big assignment will be defending its title at the African Championships in October. 

Van Schalkwyk says preparations are already underway as they look to retain their continental crown.