FootGolf’s steady global rise is clearly reflected in South Africa, where Midrand-based FootGolf South Africa (FGSA) has spent 2025 building the sport’s profile, strengthening its structures, and positioning the country as a continental leader.

As the year ends, CEO Eric Mlambo and president Norman Mphake reflected on a season marked by growth, strategic breakthroughs, and historic milestones.

Read more: FGSA stars reaffirm positions as SA’s leading foot golfers

A major sign of FGSA’s rising influence came early in the year with the visit of Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG) president Aleksander Kravanja, whose tour included high-level meetings with Sascoc executive management.

The visit demonstrated FGSA’s growing relevance internationally and laid the groundwork for a potential partnership with the High Performance Centre (HPC) in Pretoria to support athlete development and boost Team SA’s readiness for global competition.

FGSA also helped strengthen the sport across Africa, guiding the formation of the African FootGolf Association and later showing strong representation at the inaugural African FootGolf Open in Victoria Falls.

Locally, the 2025 season was one of FGSA’s strongest yet, with events such as Putter’s Paradise highlighting improved competitive standards and increased participation across men’s, senior, and women’s divisions.

Also read: FGSA announces its tournament calendar

As FootGolf gains momentum, FGSA has taken decisive steps to align its governance with national requirements and progress toward formal Sascoc recognition, a milestone that would open crucial pathways for athletes and enable them to be awarded Protea colours.

Looking to 2026, FGSA’s top priority is finalising this affiliation, which will support its long-term vision of achieving Olympic status. The organisation also aims to activate the HPC partnership to provide national teams with structured training, sports science support, and enhanced preparation ahead of the 2026 FIFG FootGolf World Cup in Acapulco, Mexico.

Next year’s national tour will focus on building the strongest possible Team South Africa, while plans are underway to establish at least five new FootGolf courses and launch a schools and university development programme to diversify participation and identify future talent.

As the year concludes, FGSA extends thanks to Sascoc’s executive management, Kravanja, funders, media partners, including the Midrand Reporter, as well as its executive team, provincial representatives, and dedicated volunteers.

Course owners and managers were acknowledged for opening their facilities to the sport, and players, described as ‘the heart of FootGolf,’ were praised for their passion, commitment, and sportsmanship.

With the festive season approaching, Mphake wished the FootGolf family a joyful break and an exciting return in 2026. “May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and quality time spent with loved ones. Take a well-deserved break, keep those feet healthy, and prepare for an even bigger and more exciting season in 2026. We look forward to seeing you all back on the course.”

Mlambo also expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the inaugural African FootGolf Open, calling it a landmark event symbolising continental unity and the sport’s future growth potential.

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