Coach hits apartheid

Press, 15 September 1976, Page 17

Coach hits apartheid

Spec. Corres. Johannesburg Because of the pressure of external forces gathering against South Africa, the only solution to its role in international rugby is establish mixed play at club level, according to the famous Welsh coach Carwyn James, in an article commissioned from him by the Johannesburg “Sunday Times.” Proclaiming that he has always been a critic of “apartheid” and still is, Mr James says he wishes that the South African Prime Minister of 25 years ago, Dr Malan, had never created such a hateful word.

“Throughout the world during the last decade.” Mr James writes, “the young generation has challenged the ruling Establishments — the people in authority.

“it was inevitable the young would strike in South Africa. As yet, only a section of the community has demonstrated, but there is a

I warning note perhaps even too harrowing for South African sympathisers even to contemplate.”

Although because of the influence of Dr Danie Craven, South Africa had been able during the 1970 s to play against the Lions and the All Blacks, it was living on borrowed time, he said.

The gesture — “and it is only a gesture” — of intending to send abroad multinational teams was completely missing the bus, at a time when world opinion was clamouring for change from South Africa sporting bodies.

Mr James said that while he deplored the violent language recently used by the Supreme Council for'Sport in Africa, which had said that its aim was to isolate South Africa from ail sports, he agreed with the fundamental sentiment of the objection to multinational touring teams. Mixed clubs would give

all races better facilities, better coaching, and a chance to play in the company of better players,' who would have a finer concept of the ethics of sport. “I hope that the idea, unacceptable as it is, of a multiracial invitation side is immediately scrapped,” says Mr James.

“During my visit I’ve observed a strong desire to solve racial problems. The time is right for progress and progressive policies. Much can yet be achieved even at the eleventh hour.”