Donavan (11) shows wrestling grit
The local Northern Natal Rhino club is probably the most successful sporting body in the area with more than a 150 National champions being produced by this wrestling club over its 30 years of existence.
At just 11 years old, Donovan Stander already knows about set-backs, determination and how to be a winner.
He only started wrestling with the Northern NKZ Rhinos Club, Glencoe, last year and after three months was ready to wrestle competitively. A fractured thumb put a hold on his progress and although he was not allowed to partake in physical training he nevertheless attended all the practice sessions during his six-week layoff.
He surprised his coaches when he qualified to compete in the National Wrestling Championships and was elected to represent KZN in Cape Town.
Steven Brown, of the Rhinos Club, said Donovan ‘showed amazing courage to be chosen to represent his province in his first year of involvement in the sport’.
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He did not disappoint when he won his first bout at the nationals. He went on to claim fourth place. Last year his club honoured him by naming Donovan as Novice of the Year.
“A lot more is expected from this young wrestler and he is currently working hard to improve his wrestling skills.”
As for Donovan, he says he just wants to continue improving as he wants to be the best in his sport.
The local Northern Natal Rhino club is probably the most successful sporting body in the area with more than a 150 National champions being produced by this wrestling club over its 30 years of existence.
Steven says one of the secrets to Donovan’s quickly found success, is his participation in the Orange Grove No Mercy tournaments during 2018.
“It moulded him into a competitive wrestler. Orange Grove’s contribution to developing wrestling in our area should not be underestimated.”
Wrestling practices take place at Sarel Cilliers High school on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5.30pm to 7pm. Details: Steven Brown at 082 880 8629.
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