Rugby, it seems, is continually in the wars, if not for misadministration then for poor results. The latest piece of idiocy presented itself in the form of the meeting between the South African administrators and MPs.
In our second decade since the unification of sporting codes and our shiny new democracy, the progress made in racial integration in the sport is shameful. The issues are sensitive, no one denies that, but this is an issue that should have been put to bed long ago. Had political will and a degree of intelligence been applied, merit representation would be automatic today.
The birth of professionalism in rugby has been awfully painful and extremely long — so long, in fact, that it appears we are still in labour. Selection panels are outdated and the coach is often hampered by problems not of his doing. It cannot be expected of Jake White to field players forced upon him by a panel, which takes no responsibility if the team fails. The selection criteria should be loud and clear and the coach allowed to operate freely within these walls.
Transformation is a ”damned if you do and damned if you don’t” problem. The current system is obviously flawed, considering that after a decade and millions of rands all we have to show from the development programmes is a handful of players capable of higher honours.
Gold in this country is not found a nugget at a time, it generally runs in seams — so when you find a nugget, the likelihood is that more are around. As a country we have produced restricted-age-group teams that are selected on merit and representative of all ethnic groups — but the players seem to disappear at senior level.
The blame must be apportioned to all involved, from coaches not willing to embrace a new society to administrators for not taking care of these nuggets and the politicians who are too busy enjoying their new power to actually care.
The Eastern Cape is a hotbed of black rugby talent and yet awful administration has ensured that the game in the region is dying. Talented players slip by unnoticed, the lucky ones move elsewhere to play, where they have to compete for places in unfavourable circumstances.
In other provinces, a black player has to be a proven performer before he gets to displace someone the coach has known for season upon season. Where on earth does a promising black player go to get these credentials when his home union cannot provide first-class rugby?
It is imperative that the Eastern Cape, and the maligned Spears, play Currie Cup and Super 14 rugby — but as it stands this does not seem possible. The tragedy is that, given adequate resources and effective administration, the region would be a powerhouse in the local game.
But hard times require drastic measures, and the jewels of black rugby cannot be allowed to vanish.
Resources would be no problem, as long as investors are assured solid and transparent management. I do not believe that sponsorship can be difficult to find in a high-profile sport such as rugby. Major unions have massive deals with companies: offer these same companies a competitive team, with the added benefit of developing the game in previously disadvantaged areas, and you would have to beat them back with a stick.
A further programme would be a new initiative that would require cooperation between government and the private sector. The level of schooling in these areas is appalling; talented individuals in any sporting field are at the mercy of scouts.
When these factors are coupled with limited places at the recognised sporting schools, the chances of finding a way out are limited. The fortunate ones are plucked from their homes and deposited in a foreign environment, removed from family and friends. While in some cases this could be beneficial, it is undoubtedly difficult for everyone concerned.
It also affects the legacy they could leave. Heroes are needed to encourage younger players to emulate feats. Capturing the imagination of the youngest players is the key to a sustainable chain of superstars. In areas where television is a luxury, top-quality school sport is the only answer so, instead of stripping these areas of their idols, is it not preferable to create an arena for them to showcase their talents?
Imagine a rugby-playing school giant such as Grey Bloemfontein playing rugby in Umtata, for example, and losing to a better team. Impossible? No, all it needs is restructuring, starting with one school, the blessing of the Department of Education and a willing sponsor.
Talented youngsters would be selected and given the best possible infrastructure and schooling. The process would be slow initially but the snowball effect would be devastating.
As long as we remain focused on the past, the present and the future have no hope. The great schools are never threatened because no one has ever thought it possible; disadvantaged children are considered lucky to be accepted at these monoliths.
Let us create new giants, let us return the heroes to where they are needed and let us not accept the status quo blindly.
Is it possible to create a series of super schools in the Eastern Cape? Absolutely. Sincerity and goodwill are required, but most importantly new ideas need to be considered and the courage mustered to challenge the untouchables. Are we to believe that a region that gave birth to the great Nelson Mandela cannot produce world-class athletes?