During the political era before Nelson Mandela, women in South Africa were minorities in the world of sports. These women were oppressed by gender, class, and race. They were women, black, and mostly poor. The women who wanted to play sports became involved in the South African Council on Sport (SACOS). Before these women became involved in SACOS, the actual practice of sports was heavily gendered. Mostly men played competitive sports. Most resources for sport activities were only available to men. Also, the best facilities were only allowed to be used by men.
Mostly African females with professional backgrounds, such as teachers, took charge of organizing sports events for women. They faced many difficulties. They could not find anyone to sponsor them. Lack of funds was one of the biggest problems. They could not afford to pay for food, transportation, or hotels for women to stay in during their sporting events if they needed to travel to them. They would sometimes sleep in schools in their sleeping bags or in the homes of friends. These women worked together so they were able to participate in sporting events. Their sporting events turned into family affairs. Nurseries were developed for the children of the women who participated in the sporting event. Grandmothers, aunts, cousins, and friends all bonded together to help take care of the children.
Despite all of these obstacles,women in South Africa managed to keep their sports alive. Some of them organized local leagues and competitions. One of these leagues is referred to as "Olympics of the Oppressed." These women had to fight against the dominant ideas in their culture just to be able to participate in competitive sports.
Reference:
Hargreaves, Jennifer. 1997. "Women's Sport, Development, and
Cultural Diversity: The South American Experience". Women's Studies International
Forum.Vol. 20, No. 2, pp. 191-209.