Sentraal Gauteng Central ends 2024 SA ring tennis season on a high note
Alberton-based provincial team ends the season with medals and national selections after vandalism hits home ground.
The 2024 SA Ringtennis season ended on a high note for Sentraal Gauteng Central (SGC), a proud provincial team based in Alberton.
Representing the Alberton Club, Kempton Park Club, and Elspark High School Club, SGC showcased remarkable talent and determination throughout the season.
The SA Senior Tournament, held from April 18 to 21, brought together top ring tennis players from across the country.
SGC did not disappoint, earning podium finishes in all three provincial divisions.
Strong performances in provincial divisions
In the A Division, SGC A1 secured third place and bronze medals, while SGC A2 finished in a respectable fourth position.
In the B Division, SGC B1 clinched second place and silver medals, followed closely by SGC B2 in third place with bronze.
The C Division team also made their mark, finishing second and earning silver medals.
National recognition for SGC players
Beyond provincial success, SGC players were well-represented in national teams, with several athletes selected to wear South African colours.
In the U13 SA Presidents Team, Reuben van Heeren and Michael van Niekerk were selected among the top boys.
The U16 SA Team included Mieke van Heerden and Sethfu Sibanda on the girls’ side, with Ephraim Mukundu representing the boys.
Team manager Anita van Heerden played a guiding role in their success.
The U16 SA Invitational Team featured a strong group from SGC as well, including girls Nonkululeko Mbewe, Prudence Thenga, and Miche Naude, and boys Stefan van Niekerk, Christopher Stolz, and Chadwin Ryland.
Protea teams feature SGC talent
In the U23 SA Protea Team, SGC’s influence remained strong.
Team manager Deirdre Jonck-Rheeders led the squad, which included ladies Faith Makona, Nomnotho Buthelezi, and Mother Mohase.
The men’s line-up was headed by captain Marnu Claase, joined by Ludnich Claase, Thandolwethu Khoza, and Marnus Combrink.
The SA Senior Protea Team also included SGC’s Annelien Arnold among the ladies and Jaco Fourie representing the men.
SGC’s veterans made their presence felt too, with Johan Ferreira selected for the SA Veterans Team and Deirdre Jonck-Rheeders once again serving as team manager.
The SA Veterans Invitational Team featured Nelmie Skinner as the ladies’ captain, alongside Mariette Janse van Rensburg and Thelma Schutte. Stefan Rheeders captained the men’s side.
Overcoming challenges at home
Despite these successes, the season was not without its challenges.
The Alberton Ringtennis Club, one of SGC’s key training venues, faced a serious setback when it was vandalised.
“All electric wiring and copper water pipes and fittings were stolen,” explained SGC veteran and SA Veterans team manager Niel Fouché.
According to SA Veterans Team manager Niel Fouché, the athletes showed incredible commitment by continuing to attend early evening practices despite the lack of lighting and proper facilities.
“This season was a testament to the passion and perseverance of every player, coach, and parent involved,” said Fouché.
“We’re proud of every single achievement and thankful for the continued support from our local communities.”
Looking ahead
With the 2024/25 season officially concluded, all eyes are now on the upcoming international test matches in Germany this July, where both the SA U23 Protea and the SA Senior Protea teams will compete.
Their participation marks an exciting opportunity for South Africa to showcase its ring tennis talent on a global stage.
For those interested in joining the sport, the ring tennis family welcomes new faces.
Interested individuals can contact Deirdre Jonck-Rheeders at 079 491 3083 or Niel Fouché at 072 826 2522 for more information.
The ring tennis family is always ready to welcome new players, and preparations will soon begin for the 2025/26 season after the winter break.
