The Soldiers Wrestling Club kicked off their 2026 season in style when they stepped onto the mats at the Tuks Challenge in Pretoria on February 14, marking their first competitive outing of the year.

“The Tuks challenge is one of the most anticipated early-year tournaments in South Africa,” said Dewald de Wet, the head coach of the Soldiers Club.

“The challenge brings together top grapplers from across the country to kick off the competitive calendar.
“The Soldiers head into the Tuks Challenge prepared and focused, ready to measure themselves against some of the best wrestlers in the region.

“For many of these athletes, this tournament is not just the beginning of the season, it’s an opportunity to build momentum and confidence ahead of bigger competitions later in the year,” added De Wet.

The wrestlers representing Heidelberg were Lindi Oosthuizen, Amieke Nortje, Mienke Botha, Tahlia Botha and Wessel Oosthuizen.

Mienke Botha returned home with a silver medal, while Amieke Nortje secured a bronze medal. What makes Amieke’s achievement particularly remarkable is that she competed against boys on the wrestling mat.

Wrestlers interested in joining the Soldiers Wrestling Club can contact De Wet on 071 466 3397.