Department gives SWD Federations a Financial Boost

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport boosted resources for talent development and sport participation in the South Western District (SWD) region by funding local federations at the region’s annual cheque handover ceremony. The event took place at the Old Municipal Building in Mossel Bay on Tuesday, 9 April 2013.

In total, R845 000 was allocated to 26 federations. This amount will be invested for development, transformation, administration and major sporting events between federations that applied for funds this year.

The Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Dr Ivan Meyer, expressed his gratitude to federations in the region for their contribution to the promotion and development of sport. He praised their role, which contributes to making positive changes in the lives of young persons, using sport as a tool.

Dr Meyer said the leadership and commitment by federations showed that they are worthy of the funds. “Many of you make sacrifices to make a difference in the lives of others who are involved in your sporting code, whether big or small. This makes me proud to hand over these funds to you,” he told representatives of the federations.

Dr Meyer encouraged federations to actively promote healthy lifestyle initiatives this year. He also encouraged them to work together by instilling pride in communities, with the focus on spectator behaviour at major sporting events. “We don’t need bad behaviour at events where spectators are disrespectful to athletes on the field. It is thus important to recognise good behaviour during and after matches, and properly thank them for it. By doing this, we are already expressing cultural warmth,” he said.

The Executive Mayor of Mossel Bay, Alderwoman Marie Ferreira, thanked the federations for their dedication and achievements the past year and said that partnerships are important to making a difference in local communities.

Through the funding, the department showed its on-going commitment to the development of sport and recreation opportunities in the province. This highlighted the importance of keeping the sporting relationship between role players and the community alive.