Swimmer Gerhard Zandberg is hoping his appeal hearing will be a catalyst for change. Photo: Neil McCartney / SAPA
Swimmer Gerhard Zandberg yesterday told Eyewitness News Sport that he is hoping his Swimming South Africa appeal hearing will be a catalyst for change in swimming.
Zandberg was served with a R5 000 fine and ordered to do community service after switching rooms at the recent World Championships without consent.
He lodged an appeal against the sanction on his return to South Africa.
Zandberg says his roommate Cameron van der Burgh was sick and that his plea to move went unanswered.
The swimmer eventually changed rooms, at his own expense, before being disciplined in Barcelona just hours before his semi-final race in the 50 metres backstroke.
The 30-year-old says that it’s time administrators finally take accountability.
“It’s not just about me; it’s about the future of the sport and the future for the kid who believes in swimming.
“Cameron (Van der Burgh), Michael Phelps and Chad (Le Clos) and all those people are heroes. Swimming from a public point of view is extremely well received, but if it’s not well managed.”
Zandberg continued by saying that his case will put the federation under scrutiny.
“My case places them in a position where they have to make some serious decisions or some serious moves concerning how they manage things.” – Eye Witness News
For more Swimming South Africa news, click here.
For more breaking sporting news and views, visit MySport24 on Twitter and Facebook.
Related articles
Zandberg demands apology from SSA
Swimming South Africa need sponsors
South Africans impress at Fina swimming champs
