INDIVIDUALS who put their personal interests and ambitions before the needs of the community as a whole are gradually destroying the growth of sport in the country.

It is said that the work and sacrifices of the National Sports Committee (NSC) to make sports federations accountable and responsible is just a pipe dream and a waste of time.

Their efforts to build reputable sports bodies have been destroyed by ambitious and selfish individuals who do not care about the progress made so far by the NSC to convince potential sponsors to fund the various federations.

For example, boxing was followed all over the country and interest in joining the sport, as well as viewership, was growing at an ostrich pace until the arrival of Dali Mpofu at the SABC.

As a result of that sponsors withdrew from the sport.

On the other hand, cricket was also growing in the previously disadvantaged communities until the disgraced and suspended CEO of Cricket SA, Gerald Majola, took over the reins from Dr Ali Bacher, who had built a solid foundation for the sport.

This would have enabled the development of cricket even in the deep rural areas and resulted in more black players making the Proteas team, but instead progress deteriorated and sponsors withdrew.

These are some of the individuals who are a danger to the development of sport in the country. They are arrogant and egocentric and this is something that we don't want in our sport. To solve these problems federations must set a precedent and deal harshly with corrupt officials.

Oupa Moroe, Mohlakeng