Gom February '16 Issue 25

ISSUE 25, FEBRUARY 2016

The ultimate online Sports Magazine!

Francé Price

in C in LUD tE E Rv s v iE iD w EO s

PITCHING FOR GREATNESS

ADVERTISING

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT advertising@gameonmagazine.co.za 082 606 6736

GAME ON TEAM Founders; Dave White | Michael Janse van Rensburg GURU (Managing Editor) Dee Hean | deehean@gameonmagazine.co.za Assistant Guru (Assistant Editor) Dan Lombard | dan@gameonmagazine.co.za QUARTERBACK (Creative Director) Michael Janse van Rensburg | michael@camouflage.co.za REFEREE (Sales Director) Dave White | dave@gameonmagazine.co.za PLAYMAKER (Art & Creative Senior Designer) Raymond Q Nkomo LINEBACKER (Senior Designer) Kerry Kruger Online Guru (Social Media) Dez Erasmus | dez@gameonmagazine.co.za Eye In The Sky (Chief Photographer) Dr Henry Kelbrick PUBLISHER CAMOUFLAGE VISUAL SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD APP AVAILABLE ON iTunes | Android Market | Windows HEAD OFFICE 180 Blackwood Road, Clubview, Centurion Gauteng | South Africa Tel | +27 82 606 6736 Fax | +27 86 666 0205 Web | gameonmagazine.co.za DISCLAIMER While every effort is made by TEAM: GAME ON to ensure that the content of our magazine is accurate, CAMOUFLAGE VISUAL SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD and GAME ON magazine cannot accept any responsibility for errors that may occur, or for any significance of applying the information contained herein.

Statements by contributors and media submissions are not always representative of either CAMOUFLAGE VISUAL SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD or GAME ON magazine’s opinion.

No part of the GAME ON magazine may be reproduced in any form or stored without prior written permission from CAMOUFLAGE VISUAL SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD and/or GAME ON magazine. CAMOUFLAGE VISUAL SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD and GAME ON magazine supports and encourages responsible practices with regards to all sports, activities and the conservation and protection of our planet and all inhabitants.

© Camouflage Visual Solutions (Pty) Ltd and Game On Magazine

BENCH (CONTRIBUTORS) journalism

photography

bertin basson

Backpage Pix

Dan Lombard

Cricket south Africa

Graeme Jackson

Gameplan Media

Neil greig

Natalie morris

Phumzile Ngcatshe

Reg Caldecott Stade Français Usa rugby William Brown

The ultimate online sports magazine

contents Cover Feature Francé Price Pitching for greatness Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

04

Issue 25, february 2 0 1 6

Main FeatureS

youth features

jono ross A South African Rugby journeyman

2016 schools football

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: William Brown & Stade Français

Words: Graeme Jackson | Photos: BackpagePix

06

demi botha shares her story Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: USA Rugby

12

18

Nelson Maluleke “The World Cup opened doors for me” Words: Phumzile Ngcatshe | Photos: BackpagePix

Toni Jardine SA’s National Ladies Motocross Champion Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

24

38

sportsmax spotlight Werner Visser takes 3 golds for Athletics SA Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

22

36

lloyd harris South Africa’s rising tennis star Words: Graeme Jackson | Photos: Reg Caldecott

20

33

Mark Keeling & Mpilo Zondi target 2016 FNB Dusi Juniors title Words: Bertin Basson | Photos: Gameplan Media

Meghan Booyens triple karate champion Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Natalie Morris

dayyaan galiem Young SA cricketer on the move Words: Neil Greig | Photos: Cricket South Africa

niku kruger shares his Rugby World Cup debut for the USA

28

40

Francé Price Pitching for greatness

Francé Price Pitching for greatness

Hoërskool Zwartkop

Francé Price’s 2015 softball season ended with the 15 year old Hoërskool Zwartkop learner making the South African Under-15 All Stars team. The talented pitcher has dreams to represent South Africa at the highest level and with her coach Hayley Scott’s backing she has the perfect mentor to get her there.

Full name

Teams represented

Francé Michelle Price Hoërskool Zwartkop Date of Birth

U14A, U15A;

28 November 2000

Red Sox Gauteng North

Place of Birth

U15A;

Pretoria

South African All Stars U15

High school Hoërskool Zwartkop

fo o llo n fa w c Fr eb a o nc o é k

(Grade 10)

4

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Cover story: softball

in w ter at c vi h ew th h e ere

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

SA Softball Coach Teams coached KZN Schools; Great Britain U19; Great Britain Women’s Team Head Coach; SA Junior Women’s Team Head Coach; SA Women’s Team Assistant Coach in w ter at c vi h ew th h e ere

Full name Hayley Scott Date of Birth 31 May 1972 Place of Birth Durban High school attended Westville Girls High School Tertiary education UKZN Teams represented KZN U13/U16/U19; KZN Senior Women

what is Softball and how is it played?

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

5

jono ross A South African Rugby journeyman

Jono Ross A South African Rugby journeyman Jono Ross has split his professional rugby career between South Africa and Europe with the 25 year old loose forward currently playing for Paris based outfit Stade Franรงais.

Game On Magazine caught up with Jono to find out why he left the Bulls, French rugby and his mastering [or the lack thereof] of the French language.

Full name: Jonathan Montague Ross

Tertiary education: UNISA, University of Pretoria

Date of Birth: 27 October 1990

Position: Loose forward

Place of Birth: Johannesburg

Teams represented: UP-Tuks, Blue Bulls, Bulls, Saracens, Stade Franรงais

High school: St Stithians College

6

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

St Stithians College

University of Pretoria

main feature: rugby

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: William Brown and Stade Français

Jono Ross GOM: Your rugby story is pretty unique considering that you have never been afforded the opportunity of just walking into a starting position but rather you’ve had to work hard to make a name for yourself. When did you decide that you wanted to be a professional rugby player?

JR: I decided to become a professional rugby player towards the end of my matric year. I had applied to Stellenbosch University but then got an offer from the Harlequins Academy in London. It has not always been easy but I think it is for that reason I am where I am today. I believe that if you work hard and show dedication you can go far in life.

GOM: You can play on all three sides of the scrum? Which do you prefer and why?

JR: It was a difficult transition in the beginning as I was an outright No.8. Many people think the positions are similar but openside flanker is very

specialised. I would not say I have a preferred position. I just love to play.

GOM: You represented UP-Tuks in the Varsity Cup for three seasons and captained them to glory in 2013. What are your thoughts on the student competition?

JR: The Varsity Cup is an amazing competition as it allows studies and rugby to mix. It also gave students great entertainment.

I say gave because I don’t think universities should be charging students to watch their teams play. I think that is why there has been such a huge decrease in spectators at Varsity Cup matches.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

7

jono ross A South African Rugby journeyman

GOM: You captained the Blue Bulls to the Under-21 Absa Provincial Championship title in 2011. Which makes you a pretty successful captain. Is there anything that you do differently when you lead a team?

JR: The Under-21 Blue Bulls that I captained consisted of an extremely talented group of players which made my job easy. The same must be said of the UPTuks team. Credit must be given to Nollis Marais who was the coach of both those teams.

GOM: You are quite the journeyman having played for the Blue Bulls, Saracens and Stade Français in your relatively short career. Is there a reason for this?

JR: I understand that it would appear as a very bizarre decision. I had a very honest chat with then Bulls coach, Frans Ludeke, where he told me that the return of Pierre Spies and Arno Botha would limit my game time. Another reason for my decision to leave is that I got a lot of criticism, which I thought was a bit unfair, for our poor showing in the 2013 Currie Cup and during Super Rugby in 2014 when I made the move from No.8 to openside flanker. I got the opportunity to play for Stade Français which I’m loving but having said that I thoroughly enjoyed my five years at Loftus.

JR: I returned to the Blue Bulls after my stint with the Harlequins Academy thanks to Nico Serfontein. After three years the Bulls decided to release me from my contract. I took up a six month contract with Saracens which I enjoyed. I think that was the turning point in my career. Nollis Marais asked me to come back and play for UP-Tuks while studying and I was recontracted by the Bulls six months later.

GOM: Your decision to leave the Blue Bulls after captaining them in the 2013 Currie Cup and being a regular starter for the Bulls in Super Rugby baffled many people. Why did you decide to leave?

Jono Ross 8

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

main feature: rugby

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: William Brown and Stade Franรงais

GOM: Talk us through the differences in playing rugby in England, France and South Africa. Which do you prefer?

Paris locals are not very aware of rugby it is a blessing in disguise as there is more freedom to play without the critics.

JR: I did not play much rugby in England so I think it would be unfair to comment on their rugby. Super Rugby is incredibly fast while Top 14 is much slower but more physical. The matches between the top teams can also be very fast. I think that because the

GOM: Was it difficult to adapt to French rugby?

JR: Initially there was the language barrier but the players and coaching staff have been fantastic. I am really loving my time here both on and off the field.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

9

jono ross A South African Rugby journeyman

Jono Ross GOM: Favourite thing about playing and living in France?

JR: Immersing myself in the culture.

GOM: Have you mastered French yet?

JR: Not even close. French is a very difficult language. I am now able to string a few sentences together but I still have some way to go.

GOM: As a South African you would be quite accustomed to mild winters while in France the winters can be bitterly cold. How do you combat the chill?

JR: The weather was a big change and I miss Pretoria’s mild winters. We’ve been fortunate this year as the winter has been warmer.

I guess we just dress up warm and get on with it.

10

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

main feature: rugby

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: William Brown and Stade Français

GOM: Your thoughts on the future of French rugby considering that the Top 14 is inundated with foreign players?

JR: The Top 14 is a great competition and I enjoy testing myself against some of the best players from around the world.

GOM: It is widely reported that South African rugby players playing abroad band together. Is this the case?

JR: Wherever we play there are always South Africans and we do quite a bit of catching up. Outside of rugby I enjoy learning about other people’s cultures. I spend a lot of time with my girlfriend and we travel a lot. We take an interest in other people from all walks of life.

GOM: You’re playing with former Blue Bulls teammate Morné Steyn at Stade Français.

What does he bring to the team?

JR: Morné is not only a fantastic player but a great guy. There is never a dull moment with him. He always has a smile on his face and a skip in his step.

GOM: Would you advise players in South Africa who may have been overlooked to make the move to France?

JR: If a player gets an opportunity to play in France I’d encourage him to take it.

It has been a great change and I’m loving it in France at the moment.

GOM: What are your goals for 2016?

JR: I’d like to be a regular starter. The season is very long in Europe so the squad system is used to greater effect than back home. I also need to practice my French more.

Jono Ross Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

11

demi botha shares her story

Victory Christian Academy

Demi Botha is one of a select group of athletes that not only excel in one sporting discipline but two. She has done consistently well in both gymnastics and badminton, and if one throws in her modelling career it soon becomes apparent just how talented she is.

Game On Magazine caught up with Demi to find out more about this multi-talented sportswoman.

Full name Demi Cassandra Botha

Date of Birth 27 March 1995

Place of birth East London

High School Victory Christian Academy

Tertiary education Studied Aromatherapy, Reflexology and Sports Massage at The Beauty Specialist Training Centre

12

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

The Beauty Specialist Training Centre

Main feature: Gymnastics & Badminton

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

GOM: How, when, and why did you start Badminton?

DB: My parents were both playing and coaching badminton when I was born.

We would be at the hall almost every night of the week, and as I got older, I would play around on the side of the courts with my mom or dad trying to hit the shuttle. I basically grew up playing badminton and carried on pursuing it.

GOM: How, when, and why did you start Gymnastics?

DB: My mother has always said that I was like a monkey, climbing around on anything and everything! We moved to Durban when I was 5 years old and discovered an artistic gymnastics club two minutes from our house. My mother

had no hesitations signing me up. I started with “Monkey’nastistics” and progressed from there.

Being involved with artistic gymnastics, and going to all the competitions, you become aware of all the other disciplines of gymnastics. I became interested in rhythmic gymnastics and through rhythmic gymnastics I became familiar with aerobic gymnastics.

I fell in love with “gymnastics” as a whole. I trained every day, doing two disciplines of gymnastics plus badminton until the age of 13. I unfortunately ended up with some bad injuries and had to make a decision. I decided to carry on pursuing aerobic gymnastics and badminton.

D em a th o

iB Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

13

demi botha shares her story

Training programs: (at present) Monday:

5-7pm Badminton court training.

Tuesday:

3:30pm-4:30pm Badminton physical conditioning at PrimeHPI.

7:30pm-9pm Aerobic Gymnastics routine training.

Wednesday: 5-7pm Badminton court training Thursday:

3:30pm-4:30pm physical conditioning for Aerobic Gymnastics at OnTrack Sports Excellence and Medical Centre

5pm-6pm Altitude training at PrimeHPI.

Friday:

6:30pm-8pm Aerobic Gymnastics routine training.

Saturday: Aerobic Gymnastics routine

training and maybe an Altitude

session.

Sunday:

Aerobic Gymnastics routine training.

I would say that I give equal time to both sports but I do focus more on one when it is coming up to either a tournament or competition. I am lucky as the training for both aerobic gymnastics and badminton complement each other really well.

14

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Main feature: Gymnastics & Badminton

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

GOM: Most memorable achievements: DB: Badminton: Winning the team Gold at the All African U/19 Championships and going to my first Junior U/19 World Championships in Japan.

DB: Aerobic Gymnastics: Coming 6th at the French open in 2012 and going to my first World Championship in Germany in 2008.

GOM: Are you able to compete fulltime or do you have a day job?

DB: Last year I was studying, so I was able to compete full time. I started working full time at Westville Boys High School as their

MIC Badminton, so the school holidays will help a lot when it comes to my competitions.

GOM: Biggest challenges of your sports?

DB: I would say that the biggest challenges of doing both sports simultaneously would be the fatigue. My body is not able to recover completely sometimes before having to be on top form for the next competition or tournament. I would also say that I have to make a lot of sacrifices when it comes to meeting up with friends or seeing my boyfriend. It definitely comes with the territory of doing a high-performance sport, let alone two, but I still struggle with it at times when I REALLY want to go somewhere.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

15

demi botha shares her story

GOM: Who do you look up GOM: Who has been your support base? to? Within your sports or outside?

DB: My support base has always been my DB: I don’t have a mom and dad, they particular role model in have always supported my sporting disciplines but I do look up to people me and encouraged me to do my best. My who have a positive school was amazing, outlook in life and who their support and pride have achieved greatness in sport and life in general. in my achievements was I also give all glory to God overwhelming and they never hesitated to give me for giving me my talents. time off when I needed to train and compete. My GOM: Who are your friends and my boyfriend coaches? are really supportive too, DB: My Dad, Ivan Botha is they understand the time my coach for badminton. and sacrifices I have to make to be on top form He is the coach for KZN when it comes to my badminton. My Mom, training, competitions/ Emelda Botha and Clive tournaments and Naidoo are my coaches travelling. for aerobic gymnastics.

16

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Main feature: Gymnastics & Badminton

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

GOM: You are a successful model. Talk us through your modelling career?

did, was the Miss Queensburgh competition. I was 13 and I ended up in 2nd place.

DB: My modelling career is really quite a short one. I did my first modelling competition at the age of 5. It was called The Little Miss Tiny competition.

I can’t say that it was a big thing as I was too young to really comprehend it all.

I then did the Miss Teen Commonwealth Beauty Pageant where I ended up in 1st place. This was the beauty pageant that took me overseas to England where I competed in the International Miss Teen Commonwealth Beauty Pageant. This was such a great experience as we had the opportunity to participate in charity work.

The next modelling competition that I

GOM: Your goals for 2016?

DB: This year my goals for aerobic gymnastics is to medal at the All African Aerobic Gymnastics Championships being held in Algeria in March and to qualify for the Aerobic Gymnastics World Championships in Korea in June.

Last year I was injured for most of the year with a bad leg injury but this has been sorted out now so for badminton my goal is to make a Senior South African Team and to play at a Senior International Tournament.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

17

niku kruger shares his Rugby World Cup debut for the USA

Niku Kruger shares his Rugby World Cup debut for the USA Niku Kruger, 24, had a stellar 2015 rugby season. The Pretoria born scrumhalf made his debut for the USA Eagles against Canada just before the Rugby World Cup and played the full 80 minutes against South Africa during the global showpiece.

18

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

USA Rugby

Main feature: rugby

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: USA Rugby

in w ter at c vi h ew th h e ere

Game On Magazine sat down with Niku while he was out here in December on holiday, to catch up with him and to find out about his RWC debut………. that tackle on Jesse Kriel ………. and his rugby future in Colorado, USA.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

19

Meghan Booyens triple karate champion

Meghan

t r i ple kara t e c h amp i o n

University of Pretoria

Booyens Full name Meghan Booyens Date of Birth 11/09/1990 Place of Birth Pretoria High school HoĂŤrskool Zwartkop Tertiary education BA degree in Human Movement Science, and BA Honours degree in Human Movement Science (Sport Science) at the University of Pretoria (Graduated April 2014)

20

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Main feature: karate

in w te at rv ch ie t w h h e er e

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Natalie Morris

more videos of meghan JKS Karate World Championships 2011 - women’s kumite semi-final

Andre Kok Teaches 10 Technique Drill with Ian Jolene and Meghan booyens

JKS World Championships 2011, Scotland - ENG vs. RSA (Meghan Booyens)

JKS SA Meghan the Kicker

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

21

Nelson Maluleke “The World Cup opened doors for me”

Nelson Maluleke “The World Cup opened doors for me” Just after their 2015 U-17 FIFA World Cup showing in Chile, South African skipper Nelson Maluleke was invited for trials with the Dutch giants PEC Zwolle in December.

In a recent interview with Game On, the midfielder spoke about his European visit and the year ahead.

22

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Main feature: soccer

Words: Phumzile Ngcatshe | Photos: BackpagePix

Although Amajimbos couldn’t progress through to the knockout stages of the tournament, SuperSport United midfielder Nelson Maluleke reckons the world’s junior showpiece has opened doors for him and his teammates.

“I think if it weren’t for the World Cup, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to undergo that trial at Zwolle,” Nelson told Game On.

Speaking about how the trial went and what are the possibilities of relocating to one of Europe’s most successful footballing nations, ‘Xavi’ says it all depends on the agreement between his club (United) and Zwolle.

Th in omater v s iew M lambo by

“However, I must say that one still has to work hard in order to get more opportunities of playing in Europe and attending more trials. I must say that everything went well for me during the

trial and I learnt a lot there, the guys take the game seriously as a full time job compared to us here and that’s why they are more successful.”

“I enjoyed my trial and I believe they were impressed because I didn’t really struggle, we played small sided games, they looked at my passing and movement on and off the ball,” he explained.

Nelson finished matric at the Holy Trinity School in Atteridgeville last year and says his “favourite subject was Tourism”. His focus right now will be entirely on his football career.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

23

Toni Jardine SA’s National Ladies Motocross Champion

Full name: Toni Jardine Date of Birth: 30 September 1992 Place of Birth: Johannesburg High school: Damelin Sponsors: Mr. Move International, Yamaha, WM Digital Solutions, Pelotrain, Dunlop, 32Gi, JT Racing, DRD, EVS Sports, Nithrone, Hayward Suspension, Cycra Racing, EKS Brand, Hydrapak, Solid Decals, Maxima Racing Oils, Pauls Specialised Products

Toni

Jardine SA’s National Ladies Motocross Champion

24

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Main feature: motorcross

mo ti v vi at deo io

n

al

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Toni Jardine capped off an incredible 2015 season when she was crowned the South African National Ladies’ Motocross Champion. It was the first time since 2009 that a ladies champion had been crowned. She flew the South African flag high internationally when she helped the SA Team to defend the ladies MXoAN title as well as the overall title in Zimbabwe. She now has her sights on the infamous Dakar Rally in 2018.

Toni was born on 30 of September 1992 in Johannesburg. She started riding off road motorcycles in 2007 after her cousin started riding. She pressured her parents, who have been a rock solid support base, into getting her a bike and it was love at first ride.

“I started with Enduro riding which is more technical.

This year I focused on off road which is flat out racing and Motocross. I changed disciplines as I enjoy the faster pace that off road and Motocross offer. I also want to compete in the Dakar,” said the 23 year old Toni.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

25

Toni Jardine SA’s National Ladies Motocross Champion

duros En hip s n

io World 14 hamp 20 C

Toni attended various schools in her pursuit to reach the summit of ladies off road racing and finished her matric at Damelin.

Although she is the national champion and has the backing of her sponsors she is not able to compete full time. She studied personal training at ETA Randburg and works for Snap Scan as a sales consultant. She has to juggle her work commitments with training and competing while dealing with the setbacks of injuries.

Toni with a few of her riding friends

26

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Main feature: motorcross

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

“Training has to be the hardest thing about what I do. Not only the physical aspect but the mental stuff as well. I train everyday by myself and with my Motocross personal trainer, Pelotrain Racing,” said Toni, who has Gymnastics national colours.

“The mental side involves keeping positive when injuries occur. I’ve torn my ACL in my knee three times which collectively kept me off my bike for 14 months. It is frustrating because riding gives me so much freedom. I just want to stay on my bike [laughs],” she added.

Toni has blown off road motorsports wide open for her fellow women by achieving several firsts.

She became the first female rider to complete the Lesotho’s Roof of Africa in both the bronze and silver classes. She also became the first women to complete the Desert 1000 race in Botswana.

i’s n fm To n 5 to o w en ie st v Li ter

in

Toni has achieved so much in her career that one would think that she would have a target on her back but Toni’s only competition is herself which means she has a very unique way of approaching her races.

“Off road riding, in whatever discipline, is a solo sport which I enjoy. I see myself as my biggest competitor. I have to push my boundaries so I can get better and better.

When I line up at the start line I see myself having already won the race. I never see my competitors as better than me,” explained Toni.

Toni looks up to off road racer, Kenny Gilbert, and Motocross racer, Kerim Fitzgerald, and believes that 2015 was her best year to date.

“Last year was definitely my best memory to date. It was the first year that I competed in Motocross. I just wanted to spend the year learning but realised half way through the season that I could win. Added to honour of being the national champ is that I was awarded my Protea colours. It was definitely a great year.”

Toni not only competes but gives back to her riding community. She offers lessons to aspiring female riders and has done the Quads for Quads twice from Johannesburg to Ballito to raise funds for the physically disabled. The event has a special place in her heart as her friend, Jarrod Blackman, sustained a serious spinal cord injury while riding that left him a C5 quadriplegic.

Jarrod explained that he was intimidated by Toni the first time that they met but as he got to know her better he soon realised what a kindhearted woman she is.

“Toni is a very determined person and always gets what she wants which makes her pretty intimidating. As you get to know her it becomes apparent that she is soft hearted. As for her riding, Toni is very talented and it is no surprise that she is at the summit of ladies motocross,” said Jarrod.

Toni has achieved so much in the sport of off road riding across all three disciplines. Her love for motorcycles is seemingly unmatched as is her ability to connect with her riding community through her acts of social responsibility. She is ready for 2016 and has identified winning the South African Motocross and Off Road Championships as her focus points for the upcoming season. The incredible thing about Toni is that she still has so much left in the tank that her future is set to only burn brighter. One race at a time.

Toni’s thoughts on how South Africa can improve in off road racing: “The standard overseas is just so much better.

The tracks and racing in general. We have a lot more rules in South Africa which I think hinders our development.

The competition is so much tougher outside of South Africa.“

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

27

2016 Schools football

2016 schools

football

Game On takes a closer look at the school and tertiary level football for the year 2016 and the key professional football events.

South African players celebrates their win during the U23 African Cup of Nations match between South Africa and Senegal on the 12th of December 2015 at Stade Leopold Sedar Senghor in Dakar ŠBackpagePix

28

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

youth feature: soccer

Words: Graeme Jackson | Photos: BackpagePix

Schools/tertiary level football • Danone Nations Cup (U-12) Dates to be confirmed at the time of going to publish • Build IT U-13 Schools Challenge Dates to be confirmed at the time of going to publish

• • • •

McDonald’s U-14 Schools League Copa Coca-Cola (U-15) Sanlam Kay Motsepe Schools Cup (U-19) Varsity Cup

Professional football • Absa Premiership • Nedbank Cup • Olympic Games Rio de Janeiro 2016

We start our look at school, tertiary and junior level football with the famous Danone Nations Cup, a kind of ‘World Cup’ for U-12 football. Every year thousands of clubs and schools take part in regional and national playoffs, with the winners taking part in the grand world final. South Africa have won the tournament three times (2003, 2007 and 2009). The host and dates for the 2016 edition have yet to be determined.

The Build IT U-13 Schools Challenge is the next major step up the ladder, followed by the McDonald’s U-14 Schools League, Copa Coca-Cola tournament (U-15), and the Kay Motsepe Schools Cup (U-19). All of these tournaments progress from a regional level upwards, with dates and venues for the final stages only to be determined at a later date. Further information and registration for all these competitions can be found on the South African Schools Football Association website.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

29

2016 Schools football

The Kay Motsepe Schools Cup is the pinnacle of the schools/junior football pyramid and is a key developmental phase for players hoping to break into the professional ranks. Top clubs send dozens of scouts and officials to the various stages of the competition all around the country in an effort to identify the best up-and-coming talent.

Clapham High School from Gauteng won the 2015 Kay Motsepe Schools Cup after beating Ukuma High School from KwaZulu-Natal 5-0 in the final in Soweto back in October. Clapham are affiliated to Premier Soccer League giants Mamelodi Sundowns, and former Bafana Bafana coach Trott Moloto, who works as part of the Brazilians’ technical team, says the competition is a stepping stone for young players, especially for those based outside of the major metropolitan areas.

“There is no better tournament than the Kay Motsepe Schools Cup,” said Moloto.

“It allows for kids from the most rural areas the opportunity to play competitive football as well and get the chance to

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

better their football careers by being identified by PSL clubs.

Players that started in school football include the likes of Lucas Radebe, Phil Masinga and the late Thomas Madigage.

The latter two I personally taught when I was still teaching Maths at Phefeni Secondary School in Soweto. I then sent them to Jomo Sono, who developed them into international players.”

Just last month Sundowns hosted a camp for 26 players from all around the country which were selected during the provincial and national finals of the under-19 tournament.

Clapham winners of the 2015 Sanlam Kay Motsepe Schools Cup Finals at Nike Training Centre, Soweto on the 10th of October 2015 ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

30

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

youth feature: soccer

Words: Graeme Jackson | Photos: BackpagePix

“There are a number of key objectives of the Kay Motsepe Schools Cup,” said Mamelodi Sundowns scout, Mandla Mazibuko.

“One is to give talented young players an opportunity to be seen by scouts from the professional clubs and be earmarked for further development. The camp that we hosted this week provides another opportunity for the clubs to see the players and make contact with those that catch their eye.

“Some of the players scouted were disadvantaged in terms of training and having to play on poor facilities. They have limited training equipment and are coached by teachers with no formal coaching experience,” added Mazibuko.

Of this, R55-million will be allocated over the first five years to the Kay Motsepe Schools Football Cup, the ABC Motsepe Schools Choral and Traditional Eisteddfod, and the Kay Motsepe Schools Netball Cup. The foundation is committed to “supporting and developing innovative solutions, leadership activities, internships and development programmes and other initiatives that will enhance education, sustain and provide opportunities for the benefit of the current and emerging generation of leaders,” according to the organisation.

The football cup has been running for the past 10 years and is believed to have the largest prize money in a schools competition in the world. The winning school receives R1-million from total annual prize money of R3.4-million.

E EP TS E O AG M P Y K KA O E EBO TH AC F P

VISITCU

“Through this camp we wanted them to be encouraged to keep up with their football. I can assure you that when the boys go home from this camp they will be talking a different language.

Some have grown substantially in just a week.”

The Motsepe Foundation gave a donation of R117-million (over a period of 10 years) to the Department of Basic Education towards sporting and cultural competitions. This was announced in late November 2015.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

31

2016 Schools football

Varsity Football Cup: Another key step in the development towards professional football is the Varsity Football Cup, which sees eight of South Africa’s top universities battle against each other, with the tournament given indepth coverage on SuperSport television and on their official website http://varsitysportssa. com/.

on Saturday 21 May with eight games played simultaneously across the country, while the Nedbank Cup (South Africa’s equivalent of England’s FA Cup) will have its final on Saturday 28 May.

Other notable dates from a South African point of view are 3 to 20 August, when the national men’s U-23 side and the national women’s side, Banyana Banyana, will The 2015 edition of the Varsity Football Cup compete in their respective tournaments was won by University of the Western Cape at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de (UWC), who defeated Tshwane University Janeiro. Both teams secured their second of Technology (TUT) 2-1 in the final in Cape Town in September last year. The 2016 edition qualifications for the Olympics in late 2015. is expected to run from July to September, as was the case in 2015.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO The Varsity Football Cup has become a shop window for youngsters hoping to catch the eye of PSL clubs, with University of Pretoria’s Thabo Mnyamane the prime example of a player who impressed in the Varsity tournament and has gone on to be a key player for AmaTuks’ first team.

Moving up to the professional ranks, the 2015/16 Absa Premiership season will wrap up

UWC players celebrate after winning the 2015 Varsity Cup Final between UWC and TUT at UWC Stadium, Cape Town on 24 September 2015 ©Ryan Wilkisky/Backpagepix

32

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

youth feature: cricket

Words: Neil Greig | Photos: Cricket South Africa

Dayyaan Galiem Young SA cricketer on the move

w at c w ht it h h e in dayyaa ter v n iew

Rondebosch Boys High School cricketer Dayyaan Galiem (15) enjoyed a fruitful end to 2015 after making headlines at school and national level.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

33

Dayyaan Galiem Young SA cricketer on the move

Firstly, Dayyaan recorded a stunning performance with bat and ball in a school cricket match against DF Malan High School. After that he was selected by Cricket South Africa (CSA) for the intake for this year’s Powerade National Academy Programme, which is split into four phases and run from 23 May 2016, culminating in the series against the Sri Lankan Emerging Touring team in the second half of August.

He is also one of the young men selected for the South Africa U19 squad to play in the ICC U19 World Cup in Bangladesh during February 2016.

“The National Academy Programme forms a very strategic part of our developmental pipeline,” commented CSA General Manager: Cricket, Corrie van Zyl.

Dayyaan Galiem

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

of st ! te ime t

greaall

34

youth feature: cricket

Words: Neil Greig | Photos: Cricket South Africa

Dayyaan Galiem bowled a triple-wicket maiden in the final over the 2014 CocaCola Khaya Majola Cricket Week match between Western Province and Boland.

Just before his name was called out for National Academy, Dayyaan took nine wickets for only one run for his school’s (Rondebosch Boys High) first team. DF Malan’s batsmen were all out for only 18 runs and Rondebosch reached the target easily. The two sides agreed to a T20 match and Dayyaan scored 196 not out with the bat, an incredible all round display of his quality.

“We expected him to do well but the extent of his success was certainly better than anticipated,” said Dayyaan’s coach

Rob Dalrymple, the cricket coach at Rondebosch Boys High. “We were thrilled for him and very proud.”

In achieving this feat, Dayyaan’s performance was the best in the school’s history since Sandy le Roux took 10 for 43 against Bishops under 14A in 1985.

Fans will be able to watch Dayyaan playing for his country at the U19 ICC World Cup, an event which South Africa won in the United Arab Emirates two years ago. They were drawn in Group A alongside the hosts, Scotland and Namibia for the event that runs between 27 January and 14 February.

DID YOU KNOW? Dayyaan Galiem has worn the number 38 on his back and the reason is because he wants to bat like South Jacques Kallis and bowl like Dale Steyn. Number 3 was Africa u19 Kallis’ jersey number squad for the while number 8 is 2016 ICC World Cup: Steyn’s jersey number.

Luke Philander Tony de Zorzi (King Edward VII), Ziyaad Abrahams (Western Cape Sports School), Dean Foxcroft (MenloPark), Dayyaan Galiem (Rondebosch), Willie Ludick (Waterkloof), Wandile Makwethu (St Stithians), Conner McKerr (St John’s), Rivaldo Moonsamy (St Alban’s), Wiaan Mulder (St Stithians)

(Boland Landbou), Farhaan Sayanvala (St John’s College) Lutho Sipamla (Grey High), Liam Smith (King Edward VII), Kyle Verreynne (Wynberg), Sean Whitehead (St Andrews Bloemfontein)

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

35

Keeling/Zondi partnership target 2016 FNB Dusi Juniors title

Keeling/Zondi partnership target 2016 FNB Dusi Juniors title In an exciting move ahead of the 2016 FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon, two up and coming South African paddlers have confirmed their partnership for the big race.

In an exciting partnership, Under 18 Surfski World Champion Mark Keeling and Valley of a Thousand Hills emerging star Mpilo Zondi, have teamed up and set their sights on the Dusi Canoe Marathon Junior Boys title.

The duo only joined paddles for the first time at the StaminaGro 50 Miler in December last year, but are confident they will emerge as contenders during February’s three day row from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.

36

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

Fish Hoek High School

Despite having only engaged with one another for the first time during their combining at the StaminaGro 50 Miler in December, the two are confident their opposite strengths will see them strong contenders during February’s three day tussle from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.

“We are definitely hoping to win the juniors section at Dusi 2016!” confirmed Keeling.

“We don’t really know each other at all and but we were really happy with how things went for us during our first paddle together at 50 Miler.

“Mpilo brings the running and I bring the paddling!” laughed Keeling.

youth feature: Canoeing

Words: Bertin Basson | Photos: GamePlan Media

Keeling, a Fish Hoek High School pupil, represented South Africa at both the 2015 ICF Ocean Racing World Championships and ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships winning the gold and finishing sixth in his age group at the respective events.

M Du ara s i th Ca o noe n 20 15

Zondi already boasts a credible Dusi record having finished third with K2 partner Nkosi Mabaso at the 2014 Dusi before narrowly missing out on the junior boys age group K1 crown last year.

The Dusi Canoe Marathon was founded in 1951 and covers a distance of roughly 120km between Pietermaritzburg and Durban on South Africa’s East Coast. It is the biggest canoeing event on the African continent attracting between 1600 - 2000 paddlers each year.

This year’ s event will take place from Camps Drift, Pietermaritzburg to Blue Lagoon, Durban from 18-20 February 2016.

FOLLOW THE DUSI CANOE MARATHON

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

37

lloyd harris South Africa’s rising tennis star

Lloyd Harris South Africa’s rising tennis star Age 18 (24 Feb 1997)

Birth place Cape Town, South Africa

Plays Right Handed (Double Handed Backhand)

Age Started Tennis 3

Coach Name Anthony Harris

Favourite Surface Hard

Personal Interests/Hobbies Table tennis, computer games

Current World ranking Singles: 356 2015 ended: 407 2014 ended: 1714

38

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

youth feature: tennis

Words: Graeme Jackson | Photos: Reg Caldecott

t is :

best, having the majority of the spectators routing for you is priceless.

I was definitely more confident in today’s final, no doubt about that. There is nothing like playing at home and having family and friends support you and people today really came out,” said Lloyd after his triumph.

So what does this year hold for Lloyd? He will focus on the Challenger tour in 2016 and look to qualify for ATP tournaments.

You Lloyd t

h Spor Harr

He is on the move and sports fans should take note of South Africa’s 18-year-old rising tennis star Lloyd Harris.

Lloyd Harris is one of South Africa’s brightest tennis prospects and he enjoyed a fantastic 2015 by winning four Futures titles (junior tournaments for players looking to break into the professional ranks on a full-time basis), including the Digicall Futures 3 at the University of Stellenbosch in November. The 18-year-old didn’t drop a set through the tournament and defeated Lucas Miedler 6-2, 6-1 in the final to claim the boys’ singles title.

His coach Anthony Harris sees a great future for the youngster: “Lloyd’s win came from him sticking to the game plan and not panicking. He played fast and kept it consistent. Also after studying his opponent’s game we realised his weaknesses, which are him having difficulty with balls behind him, and Lloyd used that to his advantage.

“This is just a small step in the bigger picture of things, it is also a victory to be celebrated as it indicates we are on the right track.”

w facebook lloyd n

o

follo

“This year has been pretty good so far, this is my fourth Futures title of 2015. The first in Mozambique then Zimbabwe followed by a win in Egypt. I must say this win was the

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

39

sportsmax spotlight Werner Visser takes 3 golds for Athletics SA

SPOTLIGHT Werner Visser takes 3 golds for Athletics SA

HoĂŤrskool Zwartkop

Full name Werner Jakobus Visser Date of Birth 27 February 1998 Place of Birth Pretoria High school HoĂŤrskool Zwartkop Sponsors Nike, SportsMax

40

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

youth feature: athletics

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

listen to the game on soundcloud interview with werner

SportsMax is a South African company which manufactures scientifically formulated sports supplements.

They are a market leader when it comes to educating the public about sports supplements and sponsor a variety of athletes including Werner Visser.

w wer in s ner gold

Werner is in his final year at HoĂŤrskool Zwartkop in Pretoria. He had an incredible athletic season last year which saw him win three golds in three different countries and top the IAAF junior discus rankings. Game On Magazine chatted to him telephonically to find out more about the aspiring Olympic gold medalist.

Game On Magazine, February: Issue 25, 2016

41

Proud SPONSOR

OF GAME ON Lawprint supports the development of youth sports in South Africa in association with Game On

your succe s s is

Lawprint is accredited Level 1 BEE Status

our

succ e

ss

Tel: 011 805 3880 www.lawprint.co.za