PHALABORWA – Four boxers from Namakgale Boxing Club will represent Limpopo at the South African National Amateur Boxing Organisation (Sanabo) National Boxing Championships in Kuilsriver, Cape Town, from Tuesday, July 7, to Saturday, July 11, after qualifying for the prestigious national tournament.

The provincial team comprises Nhlanha Mnisi (22), Lindelani Bulelani Hlope (18), Kgotlelo Maponya (21), and Minkie Ngobeni (24), the club’s only female qualifier.

Dreams driven by dedication

One of the boxers, Hlope, described qualifying for the championships as a dream come true and a chance to achieve his personal goals.

“I am thrilled, but above everything, I feel honoured to be participating in the Sanabo championship because not everyone gets this opportunity to showcase their talents at a national level,” he said.

The 18-year-old said his love for boxing began after watching his uncle compete and return home with medals. Inspired by his uncle’s advice to earn his own medals through hard work, Hlope joined the sport five years ago and has since built an impressive collection of medals.

From hardship to hope in the ring

Meanwhile, the brave female boxer, Ngobeni, said qualifying for the national championships was a proud reward for years of perseverance.

“I was very happy and proud. After starting with nothing, just my coach and pure hunger, qualifying felt like all the hard rounds had finally paid off,” she said.

She recalled beginning her boxing career in 2018 without basic equipment such as gloves and hand wraps, adding that overcoming fear and hardship had strengthened her determination.

Ngobeni said boxing has taught her discipline, patience, respect, and resilience, both inside and outside the ring.

A club fighting against the odds

Coach Lucas Baloyi said the qualification of the four athletes reflects years of dedication from the boxers, coaches, and supporters.

He noted that Namakgale Boxing Club is a non-profit organisation serving athletes from Namakgale and surrounding villages, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Call for support

Baloyi, however, said the club faces financial challenges, with worn-out equipment and a boxing ring that requires repairs before it can host Sanabo-sanctioned tournaments.

He appealed to businesses and community members to support the club through donations and sponsorships to improve its facilities and continue developing future champions.

Contact team manager Marumo Letswalo at 067 108 3911 to get involved.