Eleanore Bouw-Spies, Mayor of Knysna, embraced the opportunity which was given to her town as one of the hosting cities for the World Cup.
Knysna was chosen to host two national teams for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, namely Denmark and France. When asked about the reason for this, Mayor Bouw-Spies answered by saying that such an opportunity cannot be refused. “Yes, we were a bit surprised that we got two teams, and not only one, but it is an opportunity of a lifetime that you cannot allow to pass.”
“Hosting two national teams is an opportunity.”
When the annoucement was made that South Africa was going to be the hosting country for the 2010 World Cup, Bouw-Spies immediately believed that Knysna was “the perfect destination to be a host to some of the training staff and the teams”. A collective effort with the municipality, tourism, hotels and community was the key to ensure the success of Knysna as a hosting town.
“Knysna? A perfect destination!”
Hosting two teams certainly increased Knysna’a popularity and brought an influx of visitors. Travellers as far as Cape Town and Port Elizabeth were coming to watch the teams train during their open days. “We have a huge media contingent from both countries in Knysna”, added the Mayor of Knysna.
People are coming from all over to watch the two teams train
In order to make the teams and supporters feel at home, Knysna, with the help of volunteers, increased their security force as well as their information and help services. Locals learnt words and sentences in French and Danish in order to have the basics to make conversations with foreigners.
With the advice of Christophe Freschi, Director of Alliance Francaise of Port Elizabeth, Eleanore and Knysna’s community managed to make Knysna a European town, with a touch of a French culture, to make the teams feel welcome.
Teams and supporters feel at home
The response which Knysna got from the teams and supporters was positive. “Team members were totally surprised and excited by the way they the people of the town welcomed them”, says Mrs Bouw-Spies.
Knysna successfully welcomed the national teams
Hosting two national teams in the first ever African soccer World Cup has been a highlight in Mayor Bouw-Spies’ carrier. “I am very honoured and very priviledged to be Mayor at this time”. Knysna is now known across the entire world, and this is not stopping here; Knysna has so much more to offer.
Eleanore Bouw-Spies is proud and honoured to play such a role in the first African soccer World Cup
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