Jo-Lee smashes stereotypes with silver win at SA Championships

Jo-Lee van Tonder (20) broke the stereotype as a female boxer and placed second at the South African National Boxing Organisation Youth Men and Women Championship earlier this month.

Her coach at Vikings Boxing Academy, Phillip du Randt, said Jo-Lee fought in the Women’s Elite Bantamweight Category (51kg to 54kg).

Jo-Lee fought two bouts at the championship.

“In the first one, I came in strong and managed to win in the first round, and everything just clicked. I stayed sharp from the first bell. The second bout was tougher. I gave it my all, but it didn’t go my way. It was a learning experience, and I walked away with a lot to work on. It was the toughest. My opponent was experienced, aggressive, and constantly on the move. It challenged both my stamina and mental focus. I had to dig deep and stay composed, even when things weren’t going my way,” she explained.

Securing the silver medal, she experienced a mix of emotions, from pride to relief and even a little frustration because she was so close to gold.

“I felt proud of how far I’ve come and the hard work that went into getting there. I showed heart and stayed disciplined throughout. But if I could change one thing, I’d be more aggressive earlier in the final. I held back a bit too long before turning it up.”

Phillip added the preparation for championships focused more on finishing techniques and fitness, making sure her focus is sharp and reactions are snappy, and making her understand she has to remember the drills they worked on.

“She was ecstatic, having won a medal and given her everything. Her willingness to try anything that she gets taught contributed most to her growth and success in the ring. Just making sure that Jo-Lee understands what was expected of her has won half of the battle already. Fortunately, communication is possible in this day we live in and communication right before an athlete enters the arena is possible,” he explained.

The next step for Jo-Lee is to persevere and improve even more.

“We aim for international competitions by competing against other African athletes from other countries and taking on the rest of the world. Jo-Lee learned she is a lot tougher than she thought, mentally and physically.”

Jo-Lee added that even when she was tired or under pressure, she kept showing up, round after round.

“I also realised how important adaptability is. Sometimes your plan A doesn’t work, and you have to trust yourself enough to switch it up mid-fight.

This silver medal is by far one of the highlights of her boxing journey so far.

“Every fight leading up to this point shaped me, but this tournament tested and showcased how much I’ve grown. It feels like a turning point, not just another medal, but a sign that I’m stepping into a new level. I’m focusing on refining the small details, including timing, footwork, and ring IQ. I’m also working on building strength and endurance so I can come back sharper, faster and stronger in my next fights,” she concluded.