Tennis coaching clinic inspires future stars
The youngsters received coaching the experienced Dundee Teffo Radebe.
Lil Angels Tennis College served up an ace for grassroots development when it hosted a dynamic coaching clinic at Baikagetse Primary School in Daveyton on October 4, aimed at sharpening young players’ skills and inspiring the next generation of champions.
The one-day clinic brought together aspiring players from the community, who received hands-on training from the experienced Dundee Teffo Radebe, focusing on technique, footwork and match strategy.
“I started this college in 2021. Our aim is to develop tennis in townships. Although some in the area may believe it’s an elite sport, we want to show them that they can play and succeed irrespective of where they come from,” said Radebe.
“We want to bring the sport closer to the children. We have this incredible facility here and we have to use it to create interest in the sport in the community. Our children cannot all be footballers or runners. There has to be at least one professional player that comes out of Daveyton.”
Beyond refining their game, Radebe encouraged participants to embrace discipline, sportsmanship and the confidence needed to excel both on and off the court.
“Respect plays a big role in our college. We will teach them the importance of respect both on and off the court. Tennis is a life-oriented sport and we will show them the important role it can play in their lives,” he added.
With a racquet in one hand and a ball in the other, young Vanessa Mofokeng glided across the court with the confidence of a seasoned player. She said she dreams of pursuing tennis professionally.
“It’s a very important day today for us who love tennis. I am passionate about it. It’s a fun sport and I would like to play professionally one day. My favourite player is Coach Dundee,” she said.
Dressed in full tennis gear, Phetolo Matebane from Kempton Park said she feels right at home on the court.
“Tennis makes me feel like I can do anything. I feel free on the court. It’s a sport that makes me happy,” said Matebane.
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