Local cricket coach rises to new heights

Local coach and FNS Coaching Academy head Faroek Seedat seems to know people in high places, with recent events pointing to his growing stature. And this by accident, as Minister of Sport & Recreation Mr Fikile Mbalula was also attending the memorial service for Western Province and Springbok legend Tinus Linee. Faroek was present at the Boland Park Cricket Stadium in Paarl as head coach of the Western Cape Schools team that is scheduled to tour Sri Lanka from April 1 to 14 next year.

The coach has developed an international reputation, as he has already served as head coach of the Western Cape Schools Cricket tours to the United Arab Emirates, Bangalore in India, New Delhi in India, and now Sri Lanka. His popularity as a coach seems to precede him and Minister Mbalula was pleased to meet him, as was Mr Shafiek Jacobs (chairperson of Boland Schools and Western Cape Schools Cricket). Mr Jacobs has played a pivotal role in providing an international platform for Faroek.

The minister proceeded to distribute medals to the winners of the Boland Schools finals, providing a wonderful addition to a great sporting day. He also intimated to Faroek that school sports will be the focus of attention going forward, and that his ministry was drawing up draft regulations to re-introduce physical education in schools. This is a good sign, as it will compel schools to play an increased role in the wellness of children and the promotion of sports and recreation at schools.

Faroek acknowledged that the presence of the minister at the function added a new edge to the excitement of the young cricketers, and it would be welcome if he decided to pay a visit to Ladysmith.