Limpopo Athletics warns against bogus Mopani body
Limpopo Athletics warn clubs and sponsors about an unconstitutional ‘Mopani Athletics Association’, urging them to report any approaches.
TZANEEN – Limpopo Athletics has issued a stern warning to clubs, athletes, and potential sponsors after an individual attempted to establish a so-called ‘Mopani Athletics Association’ in violation of the sport’s constitutional rules.
Repeat offender resurfaces
The federation says the matter is not new. In 2018, the same individual attempted to create a separate athletics body in Mopani, which was deemed unconstitutional and received no recognition from Athletics South Africa (Asa), Limpopo Athletics, or the Mopani Sports Confederation.
After several years of inactivity, the individual has resurfaced, reportedly harassing clubs across the Mopani district and misleading stakeholders.
Limpopo Athletics president Sammy Senwamadi confirmed the ongoing issues in an interview with the Herald.
“One cannot form an umbrella athletics structure without being part of any recognised athletics club. This individual is not affiliated with any club and therefore has no legal or constitutional basis to establish such a body,” Senwamadi said.
He added that the individual’s actions were creating unnecessary confusion among clubs and sponsors, potentially undermining the integrity of athletics in the province.
ASA confirms Limpopo Athletics as sole authority
Asa spokesperson Sifiso Cele told the Herald that Asa fully recognises Limpopo Athletics as the only legitimate governing body for all athletics clubs in the province.
“Limpopo Athletics is the only organisation with the constitutional authority to host and govern athletics events across all districts, including Mopani,” Cele said.
Limpopo Athletics has urged clubs to ignore communications from the individual and to report any harassment to the federation. Sponsors are also cautioned against engaging with or supporting unconstitutional structures, as such actions undermine the governance and transformation efforts within South African athletics.
“We remain dedicated to protecting the integrity of the sport, ensuring that all athletes and clubs are supported, and maintaining a unified structure that allows athletics to grow and transform across Limpopo,” Senwamadi said.
Contact Limpopo Athletics at 082 455 7244 or WhatsApp 064 552 0029.
