KZN sports administrator Thami Mchunu has been appointed to the board of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC)
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VETERAN sports administrator Thami Mchunu began as a school sports coordinator and has now been appointed to the board of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC).
The appointment was made during a general assembly meeting, marking a new chapter in his three-decade contribution to South African sport.
"This appointment represents an opportunity to give back to the sports community that has shaped my life.
"What excites me most is the chance to help build systems that will outlast all of us and continue producing world-class athletes for generations to come," said Mchunu.
The Pietermaritzburg-born educator turned sports administrator began his career as a school sports coordinator and has served as President of the KwaZulu-Natal Sports Federation.
"Sport has given me everything. From my early days organising school competitions to serving on national structures, I've learned that sustainable success comes from systems that identify and nurture talent at every level," he said.
Mchunu said the administrative side of sport was just as crucial as what happens on the field, adding that good governance enables great performances.He said athletes deserved professional structures that match their dedication and talent.
"Every decision we make should benefit not just current athletes, but the next generation coming through.
"We must connect school sports, provincial academies, and national teams into one seamless pathway," he said.
Mchunu said no individual or province holds the answers to the challenges.
"The way forward lies in sharing best practices across regions and codes while maintaining our unique South African sporting identity," said Mchunu.
Aadil Khan, head of presidency at the KZN Sports Confederation, said Mchunu's appointment came as no surprise, and they were incredibly proud that their highly respected president reached a milestone by being co-opted as a member of the SASCOC board.
"Mchunu’s magnetic aura will draw like-minded individuals, who will eagerly absorb his words of encouragement and advice on various topics, from good governance in sports to life in general," said Khan.
