Sport in South Africa: A socio-political perspective

This article entails a brief resume of the evolutionary development of sport and sport legislation in the Republic of South Africa. In recent times South Africa has made concerted efforts to adapt sport with the demands of the modern era. The adaptations have primarily occurred as a result of political ideologies and constitutional developments. Sport and sport legislation has evolved in consistency with the constitution of the Republic of South Africa. The constitution prescribes acceptable norms to which society has to comply; consequently the status of sport, the participants therein, and standards within the South African sporting sphere have improved. Imbalances such as discrimination and inequality have been (and continue to be) rectified within South African sport. In conclusion, the analysis propagates that sport and its relevant legislation is a viable activity that brings a ‘divided' nation together and promotes the interests of the entire population, advancing into the new millennium. Key words: South Africa, evolutionary development, apartheid, sport, legislation, constitution, future prospects. (Af. J. Physical, Health Education, Recreation and Dance: 2002 8(1): 131-148