Wrestling club excels during milestone 2024

The Primrose Raptors Wrestling Club, which draws talented wrestlers from Kempton Park and beyond, has achieved incredible milestones in 2024, far surpassing expectations.

According to the club’s secretary, Debbie Bensch, the Raptors have grown significantly over the past few years, with their wrestlers delivering exceptional performances at various tournaments.

“In 2022, we ended the year with 63 medals across all tournaments, including five medals at the SA Wrestling Championships,” said Bensch.

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“In 2023, we doubled that success with 138 medals, finishing the year with eight medals at the 2023 SA Wrestling Championships.”

However, 2024 has proven to be their most successful year yet.

“We are incredibly proud to have earned 221 medals this year – 103 gold, 77 silver, and 41 bronze. This achievement highlights the dedication of our wrestlers and coaches,” said Bensch.

At the 2024 SA Wrestling Championships held in Stellenbosch from September 26 to 28, the Raptors sent 12 of their top wrestlers to compete.

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“Our wrestlers gave it their all on the mat, showcasing the experience and skills they’ve developed throughout the year.

They left us beaming with pride, securing an impressive 18 medals, seven gold, six silver, and five bronze,” Bensch added.

The Raptors’ success didn’t end there.

Three wrestlers, Jaun Vorster, Anton Strydom, and Devon van Tonder, were invited to participate in the prestigious Noordvaal Tournament, where they faced the strongest competitors in their weight categories.

“Our Ekurhuleni team brought home a silver medal, and we were thrilled when Jaun Vorster was named one of the champions of champions, winning every match he wrestled,” said Bensch.

Coach Jaco Vorster reflected on the journey of the club over the years.

“In the last seven years, I’ve learned that winning isn’t just about medals it’s about building a community that enhances life skills, fosters growth, and allows wrestlers, coaches, and parents to enjoy the journey together.”

Coaches Dean Bensch, Hannes van der Merwe and JD van Niekerk were also instrumental in the club’s success, creating a strong and supportive team environment.

This year, the Raptors’ accomplishments were recognised at the Ekurhuleni prizegiving.

The club received several accolades, including awards for best referee, best coach, best medic and best team manager.

Standout wrestler Jaun Vorster also received multiple individual honours, including best U13 wrestler, best U13 Greco-Roman wrestler and best President’s wrestler.

“The culture we’ve built at the club is the foundation of our success,” said coach Jaco.

“If we can preserve this culture, we’re confident we’ll achieve even greater heights in the years to come.”