For Reddam House Helderfontein learner Kendra de Beer, the few minutes spectators see on the judo mat are only a fraction of the story.

Behind them are years of training, early mornings, injuries and recovery, international travel, and the challenge of balancing schoolwork with competition at an increasingly high level.

That commitment is paying off. Kendra recently claimed gold in the U19 Women’s 63kg division at the Johannesburg Junior African Cup for the second consecutive year before travelling to Morocco to represent South Africa at the African Judo Championships, where she finished fifth.

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A two–time national champion who has earned her Proteas colours, she said defending her African Cup title was particularly meaningful.

“Winning these titles is something I am incredibly proud of. It represents years of hard work, sacrifice and consistency. Every year brings new challenges, so defending the title is never easy. For me, it is not just about the medal; it is about seeing how much I have grown and proving to myself that dedication really pays off.”

Kendra trains three times a week with Sensei Allerdyce Fulton at Kazuno Judo, with repetition and attention to detail forming an important part of her preparation. In Johannesburg, that work was evident when she successfully executed an uchimata in her opening fight.

“I’ve been working on becoming a more complete judoka rather than relying on one technique. That includes improving my transitions into groundwork, sharpening my grip fighting and becoming more adaptable depending on the opponent in front of me.”

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Her fighting spirit was tested in Morocco, where she faced some of the continent’s leading young judokas. Although she had hoped for a medal, she said her fifth–place finish provided valuable lessons.

“The biggest lesson was that at this level, the smallest details make the biggest difference. Everyone is physically strong, so success often comes down to preparation, decision–making and staying focused in crucial moments.”

Support from her school has been vital. “Reddam House gives me leave to travel, and the teachers go out of their way to help me catch up on missed work and tests. Just as with judo, preparation is key.”

Looking ahead, she has qualified to compete at the Region 5 Games in Mozambique in December.

“Wearing the Protea badge reminds me that I’m competing for something bigger than myself. Younger athletes are watching, so I want to set a positive example through my attitude, sportsmanship and work ethic. If I can continue improving, gain valuable international experience and finish the year knowing I have given my absolute best, then I would consider 2026 a breakthrough year.”

Sensei Fulton said Kendra’s growing international experience is helping her develop an understanding of competition beyond her years, while interim executive head Dave Short said her achievements reflect both her sporting ability and her character.

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