While many young people struggle to find opportunities after finishing school, 23-year-old Kearabilwe Mashiane has found purpose on the tennis court.

The Tsa Kasi Tennis Club player first discovered the club while walking through Rabie Ridge earlier this year.

“I was walking around and saw them playing. I went over and asked how I could join, and they welcomed me. That’s how I became part of the team.”

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Although currently unemployed, Mashiane said the sport has become an important part of her daily routine, helping her remain focused while looking after her mental wellbeing.

“I completed matric in 2020 and I’m currently at home. I also completed a course through Unisa last year. Right now, tennis is what keeps me busy. It really helps me mentally and gives me something positive to focus on every day.”

Mashiane attended Noordwyk Secondary School from grades 8 to 10, before completing grades 11 and 12 at Tersia King Learning Academy in Tembisa. She believes tennis, like any sport, teaches valuable life skills.

“Sport teaches discipline. When coaches tell us to be somewhere at a certain time, we make sure we arrive on time and are prepared. It also teaches us to follow rules because every sport has rules. Through tennis, I’ve learned how to discipline myself.”

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Mashiane said sport plays an especially important role in township communities, such as Rabie Ridge, where many young people face social challenges.

“We live in a township where young people are exposed to alcohol, drugs, and other negative influences. Sport encourages us to spend our time doing something meaningful, instead of getting involved in things that can harm our future.”

She believes perseverance is one of the most important qualities any athlete can possess. “A successful sportsperson is someone who never gives up. From the outside, sport looks easy, but once you start playing, you realise how challenging it really is. Tennis has taught me to keep going, even when things become difficult.”

Her commitment to the club has also earned her a place on its executive committee, where she will soon begin serving in an administrative role.

“I haven’t officially started yet, but I’m really excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth of the club.”

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While tennis can appear complicated to newcomers, Mashiane encourages others not to be intimidated.

“Once you watch matches and learn the rules, it becomes much easier to understand. In tennis, scoring starts with love, which means zero, then goes to 15, 30, and 40. Women’s matches are usually played as the best of three sets, so the first player to win two sets wins the match.”

For Mashiane, the greatest reward is not only improving her game; it’s becoming part of a supportive community that continues to inspire her.

“I hope more young people will give tennis a chance. It keeps you active, teaches discipline, and shows you that you can achieve more if you stay committed and never give up.”

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