Swimming South Africa Reaffirms Its Role Following Court Judgment

As the officially recognised national federation responsible for swimming, water polo, artistic swimming, diving, and open water swimming, SSA is currently reviewing the full implications of the ruling in consultation with our legal team. The federation will determine its next steps after due deliberation at board level.

The judgment affirms the constitutional right to freedom of association, a principle embedded in the Bill of Rights. At the same time, the court unequivocally confirmed that Swimming South Africa remains the authoritative governing body for aquatic sports in the country. Importantly, the ruling recognises that Water Polo South Africa (WPSA), a private entity, does not seek nor hold any formal recognition from the South African government, SASCOC, or the international governing body, World Aquatics.

While we respect the outcome of the judicial process, we are disappointed that our application to interdict activities which we believe compromise the structure, order, and integrity of the sport was not granted. Nonetheless, SSA remains steadfast in our mandate to regulate and grow aquatics responsibly and inclusively.

To be absolutely clear: Water Polo South Africa is not affiliated to Swimming South Africa, nor is it authorised to organise competitions under our name. Claims that it may issue provincial or national colours, or facilitate international representation, are both misleading and unfounded. This responsibility lies exclusively with Swimming South Africa and is governed by our constitution and operational protocols, which do not provide for dual membership at any level of the sport.

SSA will continue to roll out sanctioned programmes and competitions for water polo and other aquatic disciplines through our nationally accredited structures and in partnership with our affiliated members.

We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights of athletes, ensuring fair governance, and preserving the integrity of aquatic sports in South Africa. Further communication will follow once the federation has completed its internal processes regarding the judgment.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:

Mafata Modutoane

mafata.modutoane@swimsa.org or 073 226 5688.

Swimming South Africa is the governing body of aquatics in South Africa.

Its objective is to encourage the practice of aquatic disciplines for all in South Africa with the purpose of promoting swimming as a life skill through Learn to Swim programmes; providing healthy exercise to South Africans of all ages and races; recruiting recreational swimmers to compete in the various competitions; and promoting competition and athlete development to the highest level. Swimming South Africa is kindly supported by SASCOC, National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, Arena, Sport & Recreation SA and Rand Water.