Gqeberha officials to fly SA flag at World University Games
Besides logistics, both her and Kotze's roles entail everything from ensuring athletes stay aligned with training programmes to submitting crucial documentation to the local organising committee.
Goosen said there was a different dynamic in managing the four-member diving team compared to the swimming contingent of 23.
'I'm really excited about the talent among the divers.
'It's only the second time we have had divers in the squad.'
Kotze returns to the global stage after managing the University Sports SA (USSA) swimming team at the 2023 Games in Chengdu, China, an event postponed from 2021 due to Covid.
'It was as close to the Olympic experience as you could get,' she said.
'Walking into the packed stadium behind the South African flag as Chinese president Xi Jinping opened the ceremony is a moment I'll never forget.'
Those Games proved highly successful for SA, with the swimmers earning seven of the 20 medals.
Preparations by the Madibaz pair started last September.
'We've made monthly presentations to the USSA high-performance committee, followed by one-on-one sessions with head coaches and the swimming committee,' Kotze said.
'Now that the team have been selected, the real work begins.'
She praised the support received from USSA.
'There's a dedicated team we can turn to at any time. Their support has been invaluable. It really does take a village.'
Kotze will work alongside coaches Marco Markgraaff, from Kovsies, and Keenan Riffel, of Tuks, both of whom were also part of the 2023 delegation.
'The three of us know each other well and work seamlessly together.
'That strong team dynamic makes a huge difference when you're competing on the world stage.' — Full Stop Communications
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