​Several Matie athletes and a Stellenbosch University (SU) alumna have accepted roles as Stellenbosch Sport Ambassadors.

The Stellenbosch Sport Ambassadors (SSA) programme aims to empower local athletes with all the tools and support they need on their journey of excellence.

This programme is the brainchild of world-renowned athletics coach and SU lecturer Dr Suzanne Ferreira. 

“A good family helps you know your purpose and develop your potential, and helps you enjoy the journey along the way with an intensity that isn’t possible otherwise. Let’s create a Stellenbosch family,” said Ferreira. 

The programme is a working partnership between Stellenbosch Municipality, Stellenbosch Academy of Sport and Maties Sport. Caylix Sport is managing the project.

The vision is to empower Stellenbosch Sport Ambassadors on their journey of excellence by bringing the abilities of the town into their dreams. Their empowerment will market Stellenbosch as a town of excellence and inspire the immediate community. The first marketing campaign will focus on the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Rio during August and September 2016. 

The aim is to give the athletes the best possible support and exposure during their preparation and competitions. All of them have been selected to represent SA at either the Olympic or Paralympic Games.

The first wave of Stellenbosch Sport Ambassadors are Ilse Carstens, Fanie van der Merwe, Dyan Buis, Arnu Fourie, Roxy Burns, Anruné Liebenberg, Hendri Herbst, Zanele Situ, Charl du Toit, Mari Rabie and Justine Palframan. 

The criteria for being a Stellenbosch Sport Ambassador are: The athlete must live in Stellenbosch, be registered at a sport club in Stellenbosch, and must accept their role as ambassador.

There will be opportunities for the ambassadors to connect with the Stellenbosch community. They are also encouraged to share real experiences with the Stellenbosch community through social media channels.

Follow the Ambassadors on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @SboschSA.