Future champions serve it up at Polokwane Baobab
Polokwane Tennis Club hosted the Wilson Mini Baobab 1, showcasing u/12 to u/16 talent, exciting rallies, and guidance from former pro Pietie Norval.
POLOKWANE – The Polokwane Tennis Club this weekend saw rising tennis stars from across provinces compete at the Limpopo Wilson Mini Baobab 1 tournament, hosted by SRE Tennis. From u/12s to u/16s and including men’s and women’s divisions, the event showcased exceptional talent, determination and plenty of exciting rallies.
Adding extra sparkle to the tournament, former pro player, Olympic medallist and current tennis coach Pietie Norval, who has 14 ATP doubles titles to his name, brought some of his academy’s top players to Polokwane.
The Baobab, one of several key ranking tournaments held in the city each year, is a vital stepping stone for players aiming to climb the national ladder, and beyond.
In an exclusive chat, Norval praised the Polokwane Tennis Club as “the best tennis facility in the country,” with 16 pristine courts, full lighting and the convenience of keeping all players in one place.
“In other towns, coaches usually shuttle between multiple venues to support players, but here, everything is hosted in a first-class venue,” he said.
Asked about the Baobab tournament’s significance, he said:
“This is where players earn their rankings and sharpen their game. By the end of school, they can apply for tennis scholarships in the USA. It’s a real, achievable pathway and not just a dream. Discipline and consistent practice are everything.”
Norval also had some kind advice for parents, and that is to step back.
“With the best intentions, parents sometimes try to coach from the sidelines. That’s when mistakes happen.
“Parents have a twofold role in their young player’s journey – to support emotionally, and financially as best and as far as you can.”
He also had much praise for the SRE Tennis Academy, including tournament director Ernest Faver and his team.
“Ernest and his team are consummate professionals. They host seamless tournaments, ensuring a top-class experience for every player,” said Norval.
Also attending the tournament was a group of players from the Inspiration Tennis Academy in Masvingo in Zimbabwe.
Accompanying them was Privy Falisai, who was equally impressed with the tournament and facilities.
Faver, in turn, thanked the municipality for access to the club and the honour of hosting both local players and Norval Academy visitors.
“It’s a privilege to see these young stars compete on such a top-class facility. Events like this are what keep tennis thriving in our province,” he said.
