Photo by Clive Rose / Getty Images
Photo by Clive Rose / Getty Images
As a veteran of four Olympics and 10 individual world records, swimming legend Roland Schoeman knows a thing or two about elite sporting performance. Boasting a gold, silver, AND bronze medal on his mantlepiece, the ambitious athlete has now set his sights on his biggest challenge yet – becoming the country’s Sports Minister.
Who is Roland Schoeman?
Schoeman submitted his application to Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday, uploading his credentials on social media. He has sent a letter off to the President, and hopes to be seriously considered in any upcoming Cabinet reshuffle. The sports portfolio falls under Nathi Mthethwa’s remit, who also oversees matters of Arts and Culture.
As part of his application, the three-time Olympic medalist listed his credentials:
- He has championed his ‘real world experience’ as a key asset, distancing himself from ‘self-serving ministers’.
- Roland Schoeman is opposed to ‘the politics and ideology of identity’, promoting a ‘non-racial approach’ instead.
- Oh, and he also mentioned his Psychology degree from the University of Arizona. Nice flex…
After the overwhelming response I’d like to share that I have formally written to @CyrilRamaphosa @PresidencyZA to offer my services. See attached for my letter. pic.twitter.com/qAnp2mVuAe
— Roland Schoeman (@Rolandschoeman) August 3, 2021
Cabinet reshuffle already on the cards
The request was made after Roland Schoeman went toe-to-toe with Fikile Mbalula on Twitter. Mbaks, formerly the Sports Minister in a previous administration, was lambasted for failing to support South African athletes properly – and ‘underperformance’ is an issue that has resurfaced at the Tokyo Olympics.
“I don’t remember [Fikile Mbalua being a champion]. We had to beg for money. I’d like to put my name up for nomination for South African minister of sport in the Presidency’s upcoming Cabinet reshuffle. “I’m committed to every single South African no matter who being given as much opportunity to represent our country.”
- Meanwhile, Schoeman secured his first political endorsement, from DA Shadown Trade Minister Dean Macpherson:
We could do with an actual sports champion as our Minister of Sport. I back Roland Schoeman for the job.
