South Africa has withdrawn both its men’s and women’s hockey teams from the 13th African Games currently underway in Accra based on recommendations and guidelines as set down by the International Hockey Federation.
The decision was taken as a result of the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Pitch not being sufficiently prepared to stage the competition. The Local Organising Committee (LOC) and African Hockey Federation have been informed of the decision taken by Team SA.
According to South Africa’s Olympic governing body, SASOC, “despite repeated assurances that the pitches would be ready for international-standard competition, the pitches are unsuitable.”
Further, a statement from the organisation issued on Monday says it has communicated its reasons for leaving Ghana to the Local Organizing Committee (LOC).
“In correspondence sent to the LOC, Team SA team leader Ms. Patience Shikwambana states: “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. 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.”
South Africa have already qualified both men’s and women’s hockey teams for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and with the African Games being held in close proximity to Paris, it was deemed a potential injury risk if Team SA competed under the circumstances in Accra.
Credit: myjoyonline.com
