The Hammanskraal Tenise Club (HTC) had an exceptional weekend, with its young players representing their provinces and excelling at prestigious tournaments across South Africa.
At the TSA Primary School Inter-provincial competition in Pretoria, Gauteng North was represented by HTC players Tshenolo Letsapa and Unathi Gabelane. The duo fought hard to reach the finals, ultimately finishing in second place out of 16 provincial teams.
Four other HTC players – Jayson Maxson, Atlegang Mokwatlo, Botshelo Malapane, and Onkagile Sefolo – donned the colours of the WC Eden province. They too showcased their talent on the court, finishing a commendable 5th overall.
Bokamoso Malapane represented the Limpopo province, and her efforts helped the province achieve a better position than the 16th, landing it in 11th place overall.
The club’s prowess was also evident at the Mpumalanga Grand Prix tournament in Nelspruit. Mogomotsi Sekgobela, competing in the Girls under 16 category, found herself playing in the Open section due to a merger of the two events. Undeterred, she reached the finals and secured a well-deserved second-place finish.
Koketso Lephotho shone in the Boys Under 14 singles, finishing 7th, and also reached the semi-finals of the doubles event. Tshepang Tlhatlha secured 5th place in singles and reached the doubles finals with his teammate, Eric Matjiane, who also achieved 7th place in the men’s singles.
Deputy Chairperson of HTC, Ms Mpho Makhoba, conveyed profound pride in the emerging talents for their outstanding achievements. “HTC is thrilled to see its athletes uphold the club’s distinguished reputation, regardless of the team they play for.”
The club’s success extended beyond the borders of South Africa, with Winnie Masemola being selected to represent the country at the CAT under 12 tournament in Mozambique. Masemola and her team emerged victorious, bringing home the gold medal.
“HTC would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to the coaches who have been instrumental in developing these talented players. Coach Tshepang Chaane, Coach Nkateko Minyuko, and Coach Simon Tlhatlha have all played pivotal roles in ensuring the players receive the necessary coaching and support to excel.
“The support of the parents has also been crucial to the players’ success. HTC applauds the parents for their dedication to travelling with the teams and providing moral support throughout the events,” said Ms Makhiba.
The motto “Re Tshela Thupa” which means something along the lines of “We’re bringing the hammer down” or “We’re bringing it hard,” aptly reflects the club’s spirit. Ms Makhoba stated that the Hammanskraal Tennis Club takes immense pride in its young athletes and their remarkable accomplishments. She emphasized that as these athletes ascend to greater success, the club is dedicated to fostering their abilities and equipping them with the necessary resources to achieve even greater heights.
