Johannesburg - A new framework for academy sport and development will ensure the continued growth of South African sport, according to SA Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) president Gideon Sam.
The Olympic governing body, along with the Sports Ministry and the Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (Cathsseta), completed a three-day coaching conference in Boksburg on Sunday.
Three development plans were launched, including a framework and policy for SA Academies of Sport, and a model for long-term participation and development of athletes and coaches.
"We need to keep the momentum going to make a difference in 2020 and beyond," Sam told Sascoc's 'Road to Rio' website.
"Some of us will not be around in 2024 or 2028, but that does not mean we should not make provision for those who will be key role players in the distant future.
"There are plenty of pioneers in the past who created this platform for us.
"We should not be remembered as the coaches and administrators who failed this generation. We need to keep growing and create opportunities for those who will succeed us."
The conference included keynote presentations and panel discussions on the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London and the steps needed to succeed at the 2016 Games in Rio.
Sascoc CEO Tubby Reddy was also confident the new framework would assist in developing SA sport.
"This was a highly successful coaching framework conference," Reddy said.
"There’s plenty of excitement from all involved, so the future of South African sport definitely looks promising."