I don't racially discriminate - White

[semiautomatix]

South Africa coach Jake White is on the verge of emulating compatriot Kitch Christie in winning the World Cup but he admits victory will have been against the odds in what he believes is the toughest job in rugby union.

Just under a year ago, the 43-year-old was in danger of the sack after being recalled during the Springboks northern hemisphere tour only to be saved by a victory over England in the second Test at Twickenham.

However, the major problem for White has been adhering to the quota system which requires a certain amount of black and coloured players be selected in the national squad.

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=6&click_id=4&art_id=nw20071017083223776C601837

Pity it doesn't work in reverse.

"They know me and know that I never want to be strong-armed into playing a guy because of the colour of his skin.

Good, I'm glad the players understand the psycological advantage they receive as a result of knowing they are not "quota" players. Its important; and if we can create a team that is 85% black knowing we can still win, then I'm all for it. But don't push someone in who is not ready - you're throwing away everything they've been working so hard to achieve.

I'll say it again: we need academies to bring these young black and coloured players up in so they understand the game, know what they're up against, and know they are indeed the best and deserving of playing a team like New Zealand.

 

[The Cosmos]

I've said from the start of jake's appointment the "headlines will read; Springboks have a white problem"

 

[Zyzzyva]

I'm all for fighting rasicm. That is where the fight should be. If a coach doesnt pick the best player because that person is black they should be severly punished. If we want to call ourselves a civilized people, it should never be allowed.

Alternatively, for those in power to force a coach to not pick the best player because that person is not black, is equaly wrong, and frankly, should be equaly punished.

If you want to make a sport more attractive to a particular race, then do so, but please, not through racist means.

 

[Garlic_Milkshake]

We can talk about this subject for days, and we all would agree. But come on, nothing is going to be doen about it. We have been seeing this for 10 years now.

I just think that they should also deduct 20 points from Bafana Bafana if they don't pitch up with at least 40% whites in their team.

 

[debug]

Yes I would love to see a quota system in Bafana Bafana. I mean look how well they are doing at the moment Why can't they just stick a regular name too ? I mean who calls their team "boys boys" anyway.

 

[semiautomatix]

I mean look how well they are doing at the moment

Quite correct. The Bokke are able to bring a World Cup home - the only way South Africa can even participate in a Football World Cup is to be the host nation.