The DA strongly condemns the recent incident in which four talented young girls were unjustly removed from the Boland hockey team due to racial quotas. This decision, driven by political interference and the misguided concept of affirmative action, undermines the principles of fairness, equality, and meritocracy that should govern our sporting institutions.

In a society striving for true equality, it is imperative that all athletes, regardless of their race or background, are provided with equitable opportunities to excel. The government should play a role in fostering an environment where talent and hard work are the sole determinants of success, rather than interfering politically, especially at school level.

Racial quotas stigmatize black, coloured, and Indian players who have rightfully earned their place on teams and also diminish the value of their hard work and dedication. Being selected based on skin colour rather than merit is an insult to their achievements and unfairly labels them as "quota players." This form of race-based discrimination within our sports teams not only harms the integrity of the teams themselves but also tarnishes the integrity of sport in South Africa as a whole.

The recent incident involving the four Boland hockey school players highlights the detrimental effects of implementing quotas intended to address the historical under-representation of non-white South Africans in sports previously dominated by white players. The outcry following their removal from the team is a clear indication that such measures are not only divisive but also perpetuate racial discrimination rather than fostering unity.

The DA firmly believes that the selection process in sport should be based on merit alone. Introducing race as a criterion for selection subjects sporting decisions to non-sporting criteria and introduces political interference into the realm of sports. This regressive approach threatens the very essence and integrity of sport, which should serve as a platform for fair competition and personal growth.

Racial quotas are a flawed tool that engenders division rather than unity, as evidenced by the unfortunate case of the four young girls who were unjustly removed from the team. The implementation of such quotas erodes the harmony between players, casting doubts on the legitimacy of team selections and undermining the trust and camaraderie necessary for successful sportsmanship.

The DA calls on the government to recognize the damaging consequences of racial quotas and to prioritize the principles of fairness, meritocracy, and equal opportunity in all sport endeavours. It is essential that we create an environment where athletes can thrive based on their abilities and efforts rather than their skin colour. Only then can we truly foster unity, inclusivity, and excellence within our sporting community.

 

Issued by Veronica van Dyk MP - DA Shadow Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture