Team South Africa has withdrawn both its men’s and women’s hockey teams from the ongoing African Games.
They have cited the poor pitch and preparations for the decision, which has since been communicated to the Local Organising Committee (LOC).
“Over and above making this decision, our SA Hockey Federation consulted with Sports Flooring Warehouse, a South African-based specialist in carpet laying, and an FIH recognised service provider,” a correspondence to the LOC from Team South Africa noted.
“They have also advised us – having analysed the images we shared with them – that the field is not satisfactory and may cause harm to the athletes.”
Signed by Team Leader Patience Shikwambana, the letter to the LOC cited FIH regulations on competitions for the decision.
“If a field that is not certified is being considered as a tournament venue, it should be tested at the earliest convenience to demonstrate compliance with this specification,” the International Hockey Federation regulation demands.
According to Ms Shikwambana, the tests were not done on time.
“The rescheduling of the hockey competition, on three numerous occasions has, in addition, caused an inconvenience to us logistically, as a team, where we had to arrange for both the teams to fly to Ghana in time for the commencement of the competition.
“In the first Chef De Missions’ site visit meeting at the end of October 2023, we were advised that there would be test events to ensure readiness of venues before the start of each competition. This, unfortunately, has not been the case for Hockey.”
More to follow. . .
