Ex-Albertonian to play cricket for New Zealand

Meet a South African doing amazing things in New Zealand (NZ). Shane Weldon is a former Albertonian now based in an Oceanian nation with his wife and kids.

Weldon lived in Alberton for many years.

A former learner at Hoërskool Marais Viljoen, he now calls the sunny Kapiti Coast home, in a little town called Waikanae, Wellington.

Weldon recalled how they moved to NZ.

“In 2019, my wife and I explored the idea of moving overseas to Australia or NZ for work and to give our children a different lifestyle. At the time, I worked for Mercantile Bank, and my wife worked as an occupational therapist for a private practice.

“NZ was looking for occupational therapists in the mental health sector. My wife began the enquiry process. However, when Covid-19 hit in early 2020, everything was delayed, and we were unsure if we would make the move,” added Weldon.

Asked what attracted them to NZ, he said: “We chose NZ for the lifestyle it offers and it being a safe place to raise a family.”

An opportunity for Weldon and his family to move came in November 2020 and they did not hesitate. They left SA and upon landing in NZ, spent two weeks in isolation because Jacinda Ardern, NZ’s then prime minister, had imposed strict Covid-19 regulations. But NZ cleared Weldon and his family to enter the country.

“It is a beautiful country with many safe outdoor spaces to explore with our children. Safety was a huge drawcard for us,” said Weldon to the Alberton Record.

Weldon’s emigration did not deter him from his childhood passion: cricket.

“From a young age, Shane consistently displayed a strong passion for cricket,” recalled Weldon’s aunt, Patricia Kriel, who still lives in Alberton.

Weldon has always been a serious cricketer, playing provincial cricket in SA. He describes his time playing cricket at home as one of his highlights as a ‘Saffa’.

“I have always loved cricket. Back in SA, I also had the privilege of playing provincial cricket. Along this journey, I met some amazing mentors who helped me achieve this dream.”

Weldon spoke of what nudged him into the sport, “I was raised by my mom in Alberton. She was a solo parent who encouraged my brother and me to do as many sporting activities as possible. I would say my mom is my greatest inspiration in cricket. She worked tirelessly to make our sporting dreams a reality, and I will forever be grateful to her for all the sacrifices.”

Weldon’s cricketing trajectory in NZ:

Weldon will represent NZ’s over-40s cricket squad at the World Series Cup in Brisbane in March and April.

“It’s always been a childhood dream to represent my country in a sport, even though it’s taken me this long to get here. I am now proudly representing NZ from my humble beginnings in Alberton,” said an excited Weldon.

“This feels like a lifelong dream realised. I hope to inspire other young cricketers like my son never to stop dreaming. Age is only a number,” he added.

Weldon’s captain in the NZ’s over-40s squad, Juan le Maitre, is also a former Marais Viljoen learner and good friend. Both played for the Alberton Cricket Club for several years.

“It’s an honour being captained by a player of his stature,” said Weldon of his friend.

We wish you all the best, gents.