It can only be hoped that this rift, which has now grown to a gorge of immense proportions, can one day be bridged so that these important groups in sport can be brought back together once again. We have, of course a tight time line, as the Sydney Games starting date rapidly approaches. It is absolutely crucial that all stakeholders work in harmony towards Sydney for any realistic athletic performance goal to be reached. Both groups may choose to grasp the initiative now, become proactive getting together to build bridges across the chasm of differences and start to work together again, something that has not happened for some years. A catalyst is needed.
Someone needs to take the first step.
This is the trait of a true leader. This may have to be a public expression by AA, of realisation that a mistake has been made and take ownership of it. Not in selecting the unfortunate Mr Arbeit, but rather an acceptance that the selection panel did not have the knowledge of what the country needed, nor the experience to make the selection. Should they then involve those who have these capacities, and consult with them also regarding what needs to be done, then we may at last be able to make progress towards Sydney. Australia has definitely gone backwards through this week, make no mistake, but some good can come of it.