Alberton Wrestling Club wins big at 2025 national championships
From intense training sessions to national podium finishes, Alberton wrestlers showed grit, skill and determination at this year’s SA Nationals in Pretoria.
Wrestlers from Alberton Wrestling Club made their mark at the 2025 South African National Wrestling Championships held in Pretoria on July 11 and 12.
They delivered an impressive performance against top-tier competition from across the country.
The national tournament featured 10 provinces along with a team from Namibia, making it one of the most competitive editions yet.
Representing the Ekurhuleni Association, the Alberton club contributed significantly to the team’s overall medal count, which included 18 gold, six silver, and eight bronze medals.
Of these, Alberton wrestlers brought home 12 medals which include seven gold, two silver, and three bronze.
Alberton Wrestling Club president Renier Janse van Rensburg praised the Alberton team’s efforts and preparation.
“Coach Richard Addinall and Brian Watson put in extra time, training the team four days a week for six weeks leading up to nationals. The results speak for themselves,” said Renier Janse van Rensburg, Alberton Wrestling Club president.
Among the standouts athletes were: Shaun de Kock – gold; Richard Addinall – two gold; Vincent Craukamp – two gold; Heinrich Olwagen – gold; Jaco Bornman – gold; Divesh Soma – silver; Burger van Baalen – silver and bronze; Shiloh Cantor – bronze; Sonet Scriven – bronze.
Vincent Craukamp celebrated becoming a national champion for the first time, saying, “I was more stressed than usual, but I really enjoyed the experience.
“Facing strong wrestlers from Namibia and Primrose Raptors pushed me to my limits. I’m proud to have represented Alberton Wrestling Club, it means everything to me,” said Vincent Ceaukamp.
Burger van Baalen felt the same way and said: “Wearing my club’s name on my back wasn’t just about competing; it was about showing the nation what we’re made of. Wrestling an Olympian like Steyn de Lange was tough but unforgettable.”
He added, “The national stage brings pressure and pride. Even though the matches were intense, there was strong sportsmanship all around. Wrestling two days in a row was challenging, but I could feel how much I’ve grown since last.”
With the 2025 nationals behind them, the next big step could be the African Championships in 2026, for which wrestlers can now be nominated.
The Alberton team remains hopeful and motivated, with their sights set on further success both locally and internationally.
