Strengthen governance and respect federation autonomy – Simelane’s SASCOC approach

Speaking to SABC Sport, on the sidelines of the South African Football Association (SAFA) elective congress this past weekend, Simelane says the element of governance is extremely important for SA sports federations. 

Prior to these elections, some SAFA regions had written to SASCOC to intervene when they alleged some irregularities leading up to the elections, but Simelane is clear on the processes that must be followed...

"The strengthening of governance is critical to SASCOC. We are having a look at our oversight rule and ensuring that we are overseeing what occurs. We can see a big bright future, people just need to hold on.

"Federations need to have an opportunity to deal with their internal matters and exhaust the processes, before SACOC confuses the situation. We want to encourage them to deal with those matters internally, and if need be SASCOC as the mother body will make whatever decision is ours."

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With some federations like FIFA, International Rugby Board (IRB), World Athletics and International Cricket Council (ICC) being clear on the interference by third parties (SASCOC and government also considered as third parties), Simelane says this is why they have to tread carefully around these things.

Last Wednesday, the South African sorting fraternity was rocked by the suspension of SASCOC President Barry Hendricks, following the suspension by the board. 

This followed anonymous complaints that were submitted to the board alleging breaches of the safeguarding policy and codes handbook.  

Simelane was very measured in responding to how they will try and steady the ship at SASCOC...

"We are all just doing what is required from us as stipulated in the constitutions of our respective bodies, and we just have to keep on doing that."

Meanwhile, Simelane says they are continuing with their programmes and preparing the athletes for future major competitions, with the primary goal being to build a team that will represent South Africa at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.