The Alberton High School girls’ badminton team has done it again – winning the SA Schools Championships for the second time in a row.
After claiming their first national title last year, the team proved they are still the ones to beat by defending their title in Durban between April 26 and 30.
The championship featured eight girls’ and 10 boys’ schools from across SA.
Alberton High’s team of Jade Henning, Kirsty Correira, Kiara Jaskolka and Tadiwa Mureto competed against the top teams, including strong opponents Westville A, who pushed them in tough matches.
Despite the competition, the team showed confidence, skill and teamwork throughout the tournament.
“We train regularly, not just once a week, but also with our clubs and provincial teams,” said Jaskolka.
“That helped us stay sharp and consistent.”
Their preparations paid off when Alberton High won the team title and dominated the individual competitions:
Correira was crowned singles champion, Jaskolka finished as the singles runner-up, and both teamed up to win the doubles championships.
The win was emotional for the team, especially since it was Jaskolka’s final year playing.
“We were happy but also a bit sad because it was her last championship with us. Still, it felt amazing to defend our title,” said Correira.
Coach Natasha le Grange praised the girls for their dedication.
“It is great because they successfully defended their title and made a clean sweep of the individual competition as well. It’s a big compliment to be awarded the sports team in the school,” Le Grange said.
“This will go down in the school’s history as a remarkable achievement. We are very proud of them.”
With this win, the team sets its sights on defending its All-African Championship title and continuing its success in upcoming league matches and tournaments, including the U19 nationals in Cape Town in July.
