South African Olympic swimming champion Tatjana Smith has made headlines for her incredible achievements in the pool, but there is also interest in the man who has been supporting her behind the scenes.

Her husband, Joel Smith, is not a stranger to the sporting world. In fact, he has built a career in sports management and has interesting connections to some of South Africa's most recognised sporting personalities.

Joel is also the brother of Rachel Kolisi, the former wife of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi. This family connection has made him a subject of interest among South Africans who follow the Kolisi family.

But there is more to Joel than his famous family connections.

Joel Smith is a South African sports management professional who has spent much of his career working to create better opportunities for athletes.

He has experience working with prominent organisations, including the Kolisi Foundation and Roc Nation Sports International.

Joel reportedly spent three years helping establish and grow the Kolisi Foundation, which was co-founded by his sister, Rachel, and her former husband, Siya Kolisi.

He also worked as a Client Services Manager at Roc Nation Sports International, gaining experience in the business side of professional sports.

He currently serves as a director at Livingstone Management Group, where he is involved in sports management and athlete development.

Joel's family connection to the Kolisis is another reason his name attracts attention.

He is Rachel Kolisi's brother and was previously Siya Kolisi's brother-in-law before the couple announced their separation.

His involvement with the Kolisi Foundation also meant that he had a professional connection to the organisation built by his sister and Siya.

Despite the public interest surrounding the Kolisi family, Joel has maintained his own professional path in the sporting industry.

Away from boardrooms and sports management, Joel shares his life with one of South Africa's most celebrated athletes.

He married Tatjana Smith, formerly known as Tatjana Schoenmaker, in November 2023.

The couple's relationship attracted attention from fans, particularly because both have strong connections to South African sport.

Tatjana captured the country's heart with her remarkable swimming performances at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she won gold in the 200m breaststroke and silver in the 100m breaststroke.

While Tatjana continues to be celebrated for her achievements in the swimming pool, Joel has been building his own career behind the scenes.

Joel's work in sports management reflects an interest in helping athletes build successful careers beyond their performances.

Through his experience with different organisations, he has been exposed to the challenges athletes face, from managing professional opportunities to preparing for life beyond competitive sport.

His work also highlights the importance of having people who understand the business side of sport and can help athletes make the most of their talents.

Although many South Africans may first recognise Joel through his marriage to Tatjana or his connection to Rachel and Siya Kolisi, he has developed a professional identity of his own.

His story is another reminder that behind some of South Africa's biggest sporting names are people working behind the scenes to help shape the country's sporting future.

Source :

https://briefly.co.za/sports/258951-who-joel-smith-meet-tatjana-smiths-husband-siya-kolisis-brother-law/