READING the front page of the Paarl Post on the 29th of November was both alarming and disappointing to say the very least.
This type of decision making of changing agents and democratic institutions within our schools and community raises warning signals as to the future of soccer in our community.
Soccer is seen around the globe as the sport that best bridges cultural divides and is recognised as the single most played sport and largest following generated by any other sport or competition.
I agree with this and feel that if schools close the door on this sport, we shut out the opportunity that participation in this sport at school level would provide.
It is even more alarming when the school in question is Boys’ High. A school that should lead transformation on all levels within our town and beyond.
It is time that icons like Boys’ High shake off their historical bias against soccer.
Another consideration should be that if schools keep on promoting traditional sports such as cricket and rugby ahead of soccer, we will never breed the big, strong and vibrant competitors our nation needs to one day lift the Fifa world cup trophy.
Schools are central to shaping young talent and by not creating an enabling environment, young aspirant soccer players and a nation that has come to love and support soccer will be robbed of potential greats.
I’m sure that a lot of thought went into the decision to scrap soccer, but that does not necessarily make the decision right.
Soccer history has proven that it should not have to compete against rugby. I have seen nice little Sunday leagues develop and am sure that with better management of fields, a lot of good will and positive support and other resources, soccer will find its own space.
I urge the decision-makers at Boys’ High to reconsider their stand and for soccer fans, hopefulls, loyal and true supporters to pound on the pressure to have this sport take up its rightful place in our schools.
Last but not least: “What is the school’s direction towards 2010?”
Lesley Jacobs
