I had the honour of hosting the Minister’s Recognition of Excellence in Sport Awards on Thursday night when Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa recognized athletes that punched above their weight during Covid-19.

The most heartwarming thing was seeing women’s sport rise up to be the biggest winners on the night with the Momentum Proteas, Ashleigh Moolman Pasio, KG Montjane and Noluthando Makalima being recognized.

Women’s Sport Wins Big as Minister Honours Sporting Excellence

I had initially said no to the request to host because of an increased work load during this time but when I heard the Momentum Proteas were going to be honoured for their semi-final finish at the Women’s World T20 in Australia, I had to do it.

The last time I hosted a major sports event was in January 2020 when the Proteas women’s squad was announced for the ICC Women’s World T20. It felt like a full circle moment. I had to do it!

Due to Covid-19, the Department was not in a position to host the usual SA Sport Awards, and these awards were hosted to ensure that those who did achieve did not miss out on being recognized by the Minister.

Sports federations were encouraged to nominated female and male athletes to be considered for these Recognition of Excellence in Sport Awards and to see women’s sport featuring so prominently on the night made me value all the work that has taken place to change the game for our sportswomen and how much there is to come.

I have been involved in sport in South Africa since 2003 and as a proud Brand SA Play your Part ambassador, I am always grateful for opportunities be part my part on special days like these when our athletes take centre stage.

To the Momentum Proteas, we have walked an incredible journey, and once again on Thursday night, I got the opportunity to be part of another special occasion where we got to honour you.

I will treasure these memories!

 

Full list of Minister’s Recognition of Excellence in Sport Recipients:

Women:
Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio
KG Montjane
Noluthando Makalima
Momentum Proteas

Men:
Alwande Sikhosana
Brad Binder
Greg Minnaar
Leon Els

 

Photos: Supplied