SASCOC awaits crucial government funding as pressure mounts

SASCOC president Barry Hendricks has confirmed that the organisation is still expecting its allocation, with approximately R12 million earmarked. 

However, he acknowledged that the amount is modest relative to the growing demands of supporting athletes and maintaining operations.

“We are still waiting for government funding. Part of that allocation, about R5 million, is meant to fund us directly, and we have not received it yet,” Hendricks told SABC Sport.

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The delay comes at a time when federations are working hard to balance their budgets while continuing to deliver on development and elite performance targets. Hendricks noted that financial constraints are being felt across the sporting landscape, particularly in grassroots structures, which form the foundation of future success.

“Funding challenges have had an impact, especially on development programmes, and that ultimately affects the broader system, including SASCOC,” he said. 

“We do have additional support from sponsors and other revenue streams, but there is still a gap.”

Hendricks also highlighted the difference in investment between South Africa and leading sporting nations, pointing out that countries such as Great Britain allocate significantly higher budgets over Olympic cycles.

“The R12 million we receive is relatively small when compared to international standards. With increased investment, there is no doubt we could enhance our programmes and achieve even greater results,” he said.

Despite these challenges, SASCOC continues to roll out its Operation Excellence (OPEX) programme, which plays a vital role in preparing elite athletes for major international competitions. 

Hendricks added that there are ongoing discussions around expanding the programme to include team sports in the future.

"We are engaging with the government and the portfolio committee because we believe there is room to strengthen and grow the programme. OPEX has done well for individual athletes, and we would like to see it evolve further,” he explained.

Encouragingly, Hendricks noted that some federations have already begun receiving their allocations following intervention from the National Treasury, a sign of progress in the process.

“If we want South Africa to continue competing at the highest level and make strides in more technical sporting codes, then sustained and increased investment will be key,” he said.