Teens reap rewards on tennis court
Their coach attributes their success to a culmination of years of hard work.
THE prowess and determination of tennis players Thembo Makhanya of Adams Mission and Damon Kesaris of Toti are reaping rewards.
In recent weeks, at two tournaments at Westridge Tennis Stadium, Thembo won the singles, doubles and mixed doubles events in the U16 category at the Dunlop Super 7. He followed this up with more accolades in another tournament by taking the singles and doubles titles, also in the U16 age group.
Currently the grade 10 Westville Boys High pupil is playing in the U18 age group at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) junior tournament in Pretoria. In August, he will play at the same tournament in Zimbabwe.
Thembo’s interest in the sport comes from his mom, Zama who played tennis at national level. He first picked up a racket at the age of five and has not looked back since.
“I have come to realise, if I am focused, it pays off in the end. The more time I spend on the court, the better I get. I train five times a week, for at least two hours at a time. Winning is important, if I win I gain more confidence.”
Although Thembo has played at nationals previously, he did not do too well, but said he is more prepared and focused this time round.
“My dream is to play at Wimbledon one day,” he said.
Both Thembo and Damon are coached by Rowena Sanders, who is justifiably proud of their respective successes.
“Thembo is reaping the rewards he deserves. He is exceptionally motivated to work hard and practising with Damon has been good for him,” said Rowena.
Damon, a grade 11 pupil at Glenwood High School will also play at the Zimbabwe tournament. His goal in 2016 is to play in the junior tournaments at the four grand slams, Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open.
“I am proud of them both, their success is a culmination of years of hard work. I am not only their coach, but also get on well with them,” said Rowena.
