In an attempt to transform sporting culture, the Maties Rowing team continues its membership with University Sports South Africa (USSA).
USSA facilitates student sport tournaments for all of its university members through strict policies, regulations and development programs. The organisation is also responsible for choosing student representation at both national and international events.
The USSA development program is a key driver in the proactive transformation of university sports. Their strategy for inclusivity is spearheaded by a policy that requires a minimum of 2 people of colour (POCs) per 18 member Rowing team. Failure to meet said requirements will result in a penalty of 15 points per missing POC.
The implementation of this USSA policy proved successful with three POCs joining the Maties Rowing team this year. This is an improvement from last year’s zero POC participation. At Stellenbosch University, this historically exclusive sport has undergone deliberate efforts to redesign its team’s diversity in line with USSA membership requirements.
Rowing practice with Coach Scotty Carroll and Casey-Lee Layton PHOTO: Rebecca Meeser
“The team also facilitates rowing lessons for beginners and provides a form of subsidy towards required gear for those who are struggling financially,” says Maties Rowing President, Rebecca Meeser (22).
The USSA is therefore instrumental in not only organising and administering its respective sports, but in the formulation of a sustainable and integrated sporting structure that provides formal sporting opportunities and participation for all.
Maties Rowing team training at Eikenhof dam in Grabouw PHOTO: Nicholas Moses
This alludes to greater cultural issues between marginalized and privileged communities, various barriers to entry and the continuous need to address the lack of diverse representation in South African sport.
These remedial measures highlight the need for support for those deprived of access due to lack of relevant prerequisites that are necessary to participate in various sports. The lack of resources (both financial and human) that the vast majority of black South Africans face shows the necessity for transformative measures to be put in place.
“I am excited about the Maties Rowing club this year; there is a renewed sense of dedication, excitement and drive to do and be better,” says Maties Rowing ladies Captain, Keeley Knutton (21). “We are becoming a closer unit… that is sure to permeate into our performance.”