The junior players of the Hammanskraal Tenise Club (HTC) put on an impressive display at the recent BNP Paribas Rising Star tournament, with several teams reaching the finals across both the boys’ and girls’ categories.
In the boys’ events, the HTC Re Tshela Thupa team, consisting of Jayson Maxson, Tshenolo Letsapa, Unathi Gabelane, and Atlegang Mokwatlo, came out on top. The HTC Gunners made up of Bokang Maseko, Kgosietsile Tlhatlha, Karabo Lepekola, and Oratile Chauke, finished as runners-up. Anton Van Wouw secured third place. All three teams have now qualified for the upcoming Provincial Finals in October.
The girls’ competition saw similar success for HTC, with the Pretoria Oos team taking the top spot. The HTC Gunners, comprising Onkagile Sefolo, Bokamoso Malapane, Botshelo Malapane, and Onalenna Noko, finished in second place. St. Mary’s DSG rounded out the podium in third.
“We are extremely proud of our young players and how they represented HTC this past weekend,” said Koketso Lephotho, the team’s young manager. “Their hard work and dedication have paid off, and we are excited to see them compete at the Provincial Finals.”
The tournament was a true team effort, with the coaches working tirelessly to ensure the players were well-prepared. He also thanked the parents who played a crucial role, coming out in large numbers to support their children and assist with team management.
“The support from our parents and the community has been invaluable,” added Lephotho. “Their presence and encouragement made a big difference for our players and coaches, and we are grateful for their continued involvement.”
Mpho Makhoba of HTC said that with the Provincial Finals on the horizon, the HTC junior players are eager to build on their success and continue to represent their club proudly. “The future looks bright for these rising stars, and the HTC community is excited to see what they will achieve next,” she concluded.
