Winning Formulas at Science, Technology and Sport Conference | Western Cape Government

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Winning Formulas at Science, Technology and Sport Conference

18 March 2014

Coaches and administrators who are engaged in talent identification and high-performance sport development in the Western Cape benefitted from the Science, Technology and Sport Conference in Stellenbosch from 12 to 14 March 2014.

The event was a partnership between the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport and Stellenbosch University. The conference started with practical demonstrations of technology which supports on-field training at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport. It focused on tracking and global positioning system (GPS) technology as well as sport speed and laser technology. “Decision making, ability and the fusion light system” was a presentation highlight, as was “Accessible applications for support coaching”.

Eden Sport Academy System Manager Abrie De Swardt found the practical demonstrations very useful. “These innovations could make a big impact on sport development at our academy. I hope that similar demonstrations can be held with our athletes at all academy systems in the province.”

Wing Commander Nicholas Stevens of the South African National Defence Force added that the conference gave him a clearer understanding of how recent advances in science and technology can help develop the abilities of promising athletes. He found Prof. Marion Keim’s presentation entitled “Community engagement in sport: the forgotten foundation of high performance and talent identificationvery interesting.

Prof. Liz Bressan of Stellenbosch University said the conference highlighted opportunities for DCAS to improve its sport development work through interactions with the four Western Cape universities.

Media Enquiries: 

Tania Colyn
Acting Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877
E-mail: tania.colyn@westerncape.gov.za