North West MEC for Public Safety Howard Yawa says that it is important for police officials to participate in sports and other extramural activities in order to forge good relations among themselves and to nurture a spirit of unity so that they are mentally and physically prepared to face traumatic experiences and pressures that confront them on a daily basis. MEC Yawa made this emphasis at the opening ceremony for the South African Police National Rugby Championship held at Olienpark Stadium in Potchefstroom on Monday.
In his address, MEC Yawa expressed appreciation for the phenomenal support that the Springboks and Bafana Bafana enjoyed from all sections of our communities throughout the Rugby Test and Series and FIFA Confederation Cup. He said that the support attest to the fact that sports brings people together, no matter their origin, background, religious belief or economic status.
“While sports’ values of fairness, teamwork, pursuit of excellence are universal, this championship is about recharging for a camaraderie that should sent a signal to criminals that the days for their parasitic activities are indeed numbered because our police officers are getting fit to tackle them, outrun them and score decisive victories against them. Like in the game of rugby, police should be ready to work together with our communities to form a solid scrum in defense of our streets, schools and homes against the scourge of crime.” Yawa urged.
Yawa added that the police should pursue the objective of the old Latin concept “mens sana in corpora sano” translated “sound mind in sound body” with zeal and vigour to improve the overall personal health, well being and fitness level of members of the police service.
The six days championship hosted by the North West province is expected to produce high-octane performance by individual players, all provincial teams and the three developmental teams inspired by Morne Steyn’s incredible performance at Loftus Versveld on Saturday during the Springbok’s second test victory over the British and Irish Lions and an unassailable 2-0 series lead.
The MEC is also scheduled to grace the closing ceremony for the championship to be held at the same venue on Saturday morning.
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele
Tel: 018 381 9171
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax 018 381 9164
E-mail: LKgwele@nwpg.gov.za
