Club calls on youngsters to join as it wrestles its way back to glory

The club currently has 12 wrestlers.

November 8, 2024

Lebohang Pita 2 minutes read

Hansie Naudè has been a member of the Benoni Wrestling Club for over 50 years.

Amateur wrestling in Benoni flourished for several years, with the Benoni Wrestling Club (BWC) reaping the rewards of a strategy drawn up by the legendary wrestler and coach Hansie Naudè.

Naudè recruited learners and children in foster homes in the mid-2000s, and the fruits were there for all to see during that period.

“We were one of the biggest clubs in the country,” he said.

The club produced talented prospects like pro mixed martial arts fighter Bokang ‘Little Giant’ Masunyane and female wrestler Mpho ‘Queen of the Ring’ Madi, who once lived at Kids Haven.

Under Naudè’s guidance, Masunyane and Madi dominated national competitions and won bronze medals at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Mpho Madi (right) won a trophy for SA at a continental competition.

A photo of the club’s former wrestler Bokang Masunyane in action.

“Bokang and Mpho are one of our success stories. We were at Kids Haven for three years, showing our impact on the community,” said Naudè.

After turning 71 this year, Naudè wanted to call time on a career spanning over five decades.

But he didn’t want to leave the club in its current state. While it’s still one of the top clubs in the region, the numbers aren’t good enough for him.

“This sport has been a part of my life for over 50 years. I love it, but I must give the younger people a chance. They seem scared to take the opportunity. I’m here to pass on the knowledge and give them all the necessary skills and tools to succeed. We are lucky to have 12 wrestlers. We hope to increase this to 20 next year.”

Also Read: Wrestling club celebrates 50 years

The club’s team manager, Sandra Hensley, and Naudè lead a development programme to revive the sport in the community and will rely on the same strategy that led to their earlier success.

Coach Kobbie Ferreira with team manager Sandra Hensley.

“I’d like to reach out to the various children’s homes to see if we can’t get some children there or in other people’s care to start wrestling. I’m talking about young boys and girls. There’s room for all for the sport to develop,” said Hensley.

She added they are also looking for passionate youngsters from the townships who would enjoy the sport, adding that the club will cover their yearly costs.

Bokang Masunyane at the top of the podium in a wrestling competition.

“We have this beautiful facility at Benoryn Family Church in Rynfield. All they need is to get here. There have been many success stories out of here, and I’d like to see that happen again. I’d like to get youngsters inspired and involved in the sport.

“Wrestling is not only about coming here and learning to be a champion. When you come here, you learn valuable life skills and strategies to apply when faced with tough situations,” she said.