WHY SWAZI ATHLETES STRUGGLE AT THE OLYMPICS: AN INDEPTH ANALYSIS
Eswatini is currently competing at the ongoing Olympics games in Paris. This is the country´s 12th appearance at the Summer Olympics, having appeared at every Summer Games since 1972.
Already the media has reported that the country has not had it easy after the swimming duo of Hayley Hoy and Chadd Ning finished their events without advancing to the next round. Hoy competed in the Women’s 100m Butterfly while Ning took on the Men’s 100m Breaststroke.
Unfortunately, both teenagers finished last in their respective beats and have been eliminated from the competition. But for the efforts, these Swazi stars deserve our collective celebration. With the two out of the competition we now have our hopes on Sibusiso ‘Swazi Bolt’ Matsenjwa. Matsenjwa will represent Eswatini in the Men’s 100m Athletic.
Our failure at the international stage has been the standard performance for decades now. Watching the exploits of such countries like China, Japan, USA and others, I was persuaded to look at the deeper problems we face as a country and why we will never compete globally in any sport. I must state from the beginning that a country´s performance at a global stage is not the product of muti, as we seem to anchor our beliefs, especially as it relates to football.
It is a product of correct policy decisions, deliberate financial investment in sports, employing science in the all-around development of sports and then grassroots development of infrastructure in order to nurture talent at the embryonic stage.
Lack of Adequate Funding
One of the most significant issues hindering Swazi athletes is the lack of adequate funding. Competing at the Olympics level requires substantial financial resources for training, equipment, travel, and participation in international competitions. Unfortunately, both government and private sector investment in sports in Eswatini is limited, leaving many athletes without the support they need to excel.
High-performance training facilities are essential for preparing athletes for the Olympics. In Eswatini, access to state-of-the-art facilities is limited, which hampers athletes' ability to train at the level required to compete with the world's best. This lack of infrastructure includes everything from modern gymnasiums and tracks to swimming pools and specialized coaching staff. To compete successfully at the Olympics, athletes need regular exposure to international competitions.
These events provide crucial experience and help athletes gauge their performance against top-tier competitors. However, due to funding constraints, many Swazi athletes have limited opportunities to participate in international events, putting them at a disadvantage when they face well-seasoned opponents at the Olympics. Insufficient Development Programs Developing Olympic-level talent requires long-term investment in grassroots and development programs.
In Eswatini, sports development programs are often underfunded and lack the necessary resources to identify and nurture talent from a young age. Effective early talent identification programs are crucial for discovering potential Olympic athletes. In many countries, these programs are integrated into the education system, allowing young athletes to receive specialized training alongside their academic education.
In Eswatini, the absence of robust talent identification programs means many potential athletes go unnoticed and undeveloped.
Coaching and Mentorship
Quality coaching and mentorship are vital for athletes' development. Swazi athletes often lack access to experienced coaches who can provide the technical training and strategic guidance needed to compete at the highest level.
Additionally, mentorship from former Olympians and elite athletes can offer invaluable insights and motivation, but such opportunities are scarce in Eswatini. Socio-economic barriers also play a significant role in the struggles of Swazi athletes at the Olympics. High levels of poverty and unemployment mean that many talented individuals cannot afford to pursue sports as a career.
The need to secure a stable income often takes precedence over athletic ambitions, leading many promising athletes to abandon their dreams.
Balancing Education and Training
Many young athletes in Eswatini face the challenge of balancing their education with their training. Without adequate support systems, it can be difficult for them to dedicate the necessary time and effort to excel in both areas.
This struggle often results in suboptimal performance in either academics or sports, further hindering their chances of Olympic success. Government policies and private sector support play a crucial role in the success of athletes. In Eswatini, there is a need for more comprehensive policies and incentives to support sports development.
Private sector sponsorships and partnerships are also essential to provide the financial backing and resources athletes need to compete at the Olympic level. Developing and implementing policies that prioritize sports can create a more supportive environment for athletes. This includes allocating funds for sports infrastructure, providing scholarships and grants for athletes, and creating programs that encourage youth participation in sports.
Engaging the private sector through sponsorships and partnerships can provide additional financial support for athletes. Businesses can benefit from the visibility and positive image associated with supporting national athletes, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
While Swazi athletes face significant challenges in their quest for Olympic success, these obstacles are not insurmountable. By addressing issues of funding, development programs, international exposure, and socio-economic barriers, Eswatini can create an environment where its athletes can thrive and achieve their full potential on the world stage. With the right support and resources, Swazi athletes can overcome these challenges and bring Olympic glory to their nation.