SA SPORTS PRESS
DON'T LET YOUR SPORT GET LOST IN THE WILDERNESS
PUBLISH YOUR SPORTS NEWS ON SA SPORTS PRESS
At SA Sports Press we promote all sporting codes, sportsmen and women.
If it is sports-related, we want to hear from you.
Send us your Club info, your Event dates and times, your Press Releases!
If it is SA sports-related, both locally or internationally, we want your SPORTS NEWS!
SUBMIT YOUR PRESS RELEASE
Submit your Sports Press Release for publication on SA Sports Press
List your Sports Club or Federation
Sign your Sports Club up and be listed on our search engine
• Click on the club sign-up button to register your sports club.
FEDERATION OR CLUB SIGN UP
In 20th Place with 469 hits
SOUTH AFRICA’S PREMIER T20 LEAGUE HAS BEEN UNVEILED AS THE SA20 EXXPLOSIVE, EXXHILARATING AND EXXCITING, THE SA20 IS HERE!
Wednesday, 31 August: South Africa’s premier T20 League has been unveiled as the SA20, an Explosive, Exhilarating and Exciting competition set to change the face of South African cricket.
The SA20 identity is founded on vibrant, bold, and energetic iconography, all the dynamic elements synonymous with T20 cricket. The XX – roman numerals for the number 20-represent T20 cricket’s dynamic wagon wheel, a key indicator of runs being scored, and bring to life the flair and thrill expected in the competition. The striking colours of cyan, navy and green are symbolic to the world of cricket – day, night and the 22 yards.
League Commissioner, Graeme Smith, says the SA20 will be a competition for everyone.
“Today is another significant day as we officially unveil the SA20,” Smith said. “We selected a name for its simplicity and something that can be uniquely ours as we enter this new and exciting phase of cricket in South Africa. Dropping the T in T20 cricket shows our intention to be different. We want to change the game for our players and for our fans, and most importantly, create a League that all South Africans can be a part of.”
The SA20 has attracted some of T20 cricket’s global stars including Liam Livingstone, Jos Buttler, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan and Moeen Ali to add to the list of world-class contracted Proteas players.
The next important milestone for the SA20 will be the player auction taking place on September 19th . The player registrations closed on Sunday evening with a positive show of interest from players around the world and from established and young South African talent.
“The countdown to January 2023 gets more thrilling with each major milestone that we cross and today is another step towards that first ball being bowled. We hope fans will be able to relate to our brand as we work towards making the SA20 a world-class tournament South Africans can be proud of.”
In 19th Place with 479 hits
SA MENS HOCKEY VS ARGENTINA FIH PRO LEAGUE
South Africa secured their first ever FIH Pro League point in a remarkable 2-2 draw with Argentina. Losing out on the full house of points by losing 2-1 in a shootout. The result is the first time the South Africans have not tasted defeat against Argentina in 11 years.
There was encouragement in their opening test against Argentina as they fought back from two early goals to almost pull level. In fact, had it not been for a remarkable save from Bosso the African champions may have got their opening point of the tournament. Today they had the opportunity to try again as the two teams completed their FIH Pro League fixture against each other in Buenos Aires.
Playing in front of a packed crowd South Africa were desperate to start better than they had in the opening game where they were two goals down early on and constantly chasing the game. They achieved this objective with a more settled start as they did not allow the same Argentinean tempo up front. The visitors were showing some good intent, but not quite finding the connections up front.
The match was heating up and a green card apiece followed shortly. South Africa had a penalty corner awarded but was correctly overturned as the infringement was just outside the circle. South Africa’s high pressure was troubling the host's defence as the opening quarter edged to a completion. An outstanding overhead found Brad Sherwood through and from a tight angle, the former U21 star dinked it over the top. Argentina then won a penalty corner with just one minute remaining before the first break. The first attempt was saved superbly by Jethro Eustice on the post before the second was chased down superbly by Le-Neal Jackson. Goalless at the end of the first quarter in a very evenly contested battle.
Argentina raised the tempo in the second quarter and were rewarded with a penalty corner that was finished into the bottom left corner paste Estiaan Kriek. Another unforced error by the South Africans gave another penalty corner to the Argentines as the hosts were starting to dominate the proceedings. This time Ferrero fired it far wide to the relief of the South Africans.
SOUTH AFRICA WIN FIRST FIH PRO LEAGUE POINT IN ARGENTINA DRAWSouth Africa created a couple of half chances, but the next quality chance was presented to Argentina with a penalty corner after a push was spotted. It was fired well wide by Catan as Argentina failed to make their chances count. At the half-time break it was just 1 goal in it with the Argentineans 1-0 up.
The second half started with poor discipline from the hosts and received a green and yellow in the opening minutes. Bili Ntuli created a goal scoring opportunity but struck straight at the keeper. The effort being led by Ntuli was rewarded with an Ntuli goal reacting quickest after Sam Mvimbi’s shot was saved and the South Africans were level. The run by Ntuli off the ball was something that will make its way into coaching manuals for years to come.
Within seconds though the South Africans had once again conceded a good opportunity giving a penalty corner to the hosts. They were let off as poor execution saw the opportunity doused, which saw the South Africans go forward and finally win their own first penalty corner of the game. Matt Guise-Brown was not on the pitch, so the honours were awarded to Connor Beauchamp. And it was honours alright as his rocket pc was fired into the side of the net! Brad Sherwood almost made it three as he ran through brilliantly and his shot fired into the side netting.
The late afternoon sun brought out more fieriness in a game that always threatened to reach boiling point and both sides ended the third quarter with a player in the sinbin. South Africa would have another 4 minutes in the first quarter without Ntuli and would be keen to keep the ascendancy. They almost added when Brad Sherwood rushed his shot, he probably didn’t realise how much time he had on the ball. As the yellow card expired South Africa still held a one goal lead. Chad Futcher was called into action on the goal line where he showed incredible composure to save the ball and scoop out a brilliant aerial to remove the danger. Argentina was camping in the South African half and earned another penalty corner when Acosta played the ball off the foot of Beauchamp. Yet again though Argentina took the opportunity and rejected it with poor execution.
South Africa were inviting too much pressure on at the back and the 2016 Olympic Gold medallists were looking the more likely to score the game’s fourth goal, spurred on by a vociferous home crowd.
A contentious penalty corner was awarded to Argentina which Keenan Horne charged down superbly. But a re-award was given, and the chance was fired far wide. Four minutes remained for South Africa to win their first ever FIH Pro League game. The challenge was going to be even tougher though as a yellow card was shown to Guise-Brown.
Argentina was keen to take advantage of the yellow card and won themselves a penalty corner and at last they pulled level and surged forward looking for the winner. South Africa, despite finishing the game with two players less they held on for their first FIH Pro League point and a shootout to decide the winner.
In the shootout both keepers saved the first attempt well, before the second attempts both led to goals, South Africa’s through a stroke. 1-1. Ntuli then struck the woodwork after superb work before Martins missed his chance. 1-1. Chad Futcher was ruled to have blocked the keeper with his foot and Argentina scored to take the lead. 1-2. Brad Sherwood was fouled but scored, however the umpire blew before the ball crossed the line and a stroke was awarded. The stroke was missed, and the Argentines were victorious by 2-1 in the shootout.
A disappointing end for the South Africans, but a positive trip to Argentina as the team look to continue to build towards the Commonwealth Games, the Nations Cup and the FIH Hockey World Cup.
CAPTAIN TIM DRUMMOND INSPIRES THE LADS
In 18th Place with 482 hits
PRECIOUS MTHEMBU RETIRES FROM INTERNATIONAL NETBALL PRECIOUS MTHEMBU LEAVES IMPRESSIVE LEGACY
Precious Mthembu, who retired from international netball as a player over the weekend, will leave a huge legacy behind as one of the best wing defenders that has ever played the game.
Mthembu (37) made her international debut at the tender age of (22) on 26 January 2007 against England in Birmingham.
She played 97 test matches, the most by any wing defence in South Africa and the fourth most by any SPAR Protea. Who can ever forget the amazing comeback she made in 2019 at the Africa Netball Cup in Cape Town, after sustaining an ACL injury (her second) in the match against Australia at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast, Queensland.
OTHER MILESTONES AND ACCOLADES IN HER CAREER INCLUDE:
• Representing South Africa at the 2011 and 2015 Netball World Cups
• Representing South Africa at the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games
• Winning the Diamond Challenge in 2012, 2015 and 2016
• Winning the Africa Netball Cup in 2013 and 2019
APART FROM THE SPAR PROTEAS, MTHEMBU ALSO REPRESENTED SOUTH AFRICA IN THE:
• SA Fast5 team (2011)
• SA Fast5 Invitational team (2014)
OTHER TEAMS SHE HAS PLAYED FOR:
• Kingdom Stars (2014-2021)
• Mermaids (2009)
• eThekwini / KZN Midlands / Umgungundlovu (2005-2016)
IN
RECENT TIMES MTHEMBU HAS TURNED TO COACHING WITH GREAT SUCCESS WORKING WITH:
• South Africa’s u20 team that won the AUSC Region V Youth Games in Maseru in 2021
• Assistant Coach of South Africa u21
• Currently coaching the KZN Kingdom Queens for the 2022 Telkom Netball League
On her illustrious international career Mthembu said: “…I gave everything I had each time I put on the Proteas’ green and gold dress. However, I feel this is the right time to officially announce my retirement from playing international netball. I excelled in many sports that I tried at a young age, but it was when I first caught the netball bug at the age of 10, that I truly felt at home. I could have never imagined that I would play for my country so many times and in so many arenas around the world. It has been a long journey filled with greatness and challenges. It has been a great pleasure and honour to represent my country. I appreciate all the opportunities that being part of the SPAR Proteas has afforded me and I feel that the time is right to give back to the game that has given me so much. I am thankful to all the people who’ve been a part of my journey, the technical staff, managers, coaches, teammates, doctors, medical staff, sponsors and supporters. I will forever be a proud SPAR Proteas supporter and I wish the team all the very best for their upcoming international events.”
Netball South Africa President, Cecilia Molokwane: “It’s funny how I’m the one that actually found you, playing in the C-section when I was Director of Selections for Netball South Africa. And today, I’m the one that is saying thank you to you for giving us the time and showing us dedication, commitment and hard work. Being the person you are, humble as you are, an excellent player you were, and still is I believe. Thank you for everything you’ve done for netball and thank you for not leaving netball, you’re still amongst us in our midst, you never gave up even though my heart is sore that you never reached that 100th cap I so badly wanted you to reach. However as I always say, everything in life happens for a reason and God knows why. I wish you all the best in your new journey as a coach and I hope that you will reach all the highs of coaching. You are loved by me, you are loved by the netball family, you are loved by the continent and the world. You are such a beautiful person. Keep on being you, Precious Mthembu.”
Fellow SPAR Proteas team mate and current national captain, Bongiwe Msomi: “You will always remain the champ you are Precious Mthembu! An absolute legend who worked hard consistently to be the best she is! Been lucky to share so many beautiful memories with you and to spend so many years with such a champ, a sister and my gogoz especially at national level! Pleased for the kids who get to be coached by you as they are definitely learning from the best! Keep shining champ, blessings to you.”
From everyone at Netball South Africa and the extended netball family. Thank you for all the magical moments, Precious Mthembu.
In 17th Place with 499 hits
BRAD BINDER 2ND IN OPENING MOTO GP
South Africa’s Brad Binder, riding his #33 KTM, finished in a fantastic 2nd place in the opening round of the 2022 Moto GP season at the Qatar Grand Prix.
A shout out to fellow South African and younger brother Darryn Binder on finishing in a credible 16th place in his rookie GP debut on his #40 Yamaha.
GRAEME SMITH CLEARED OF RACISM ALLEGATIONS
24 APR INDEPENDENT ARBITRATION PANEL CLEARS GRAEME SMITH OF RACISM ALLEGATIONS
Posted at 18:58h in CSA News, Proteas - Men by //cricket.co.za/author/admin@csa/
JOHANNESBURG: Former Cricket South Africa (CSA) Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith has been cleared by two independent arbitrators of racism allegations against him, which emanated from CSA’s Social Justice and Nation-Building (SJN) process.
In December 2021, the SJN Ombudsman, Adv Dumisa Ntsebeza SC, delivered his report which made “tentative findings” regarding various persons, including Graeme Smith but indicated that he was not in a position to make “definite findings” on allegations before him. The Ombudsman, therefore, recommended that further formal processes take place to achieve finality on these issues.
CSA duly followed these recommendations by initiating an arbitration process regarding Mr. Smith before two independent and well-respected advocates, Adv Ngwako Maenetje SC and Adv Michael Bishop.
A full arbitration process took place, during which both CSA and Mr. Smith were legally represented. Witnesses were called and cross-examined by both sides and the findings and evidence from the SJN process were placed before the arbitrators.
In the arbitration award, Adv Maenetje SC and Adv Bishop have determined that:
1. There was no evidentiary basis to conclude that Mr. Smith engaged in racial discrimination against Mr. Thami Tsolekile during the period 2012-2014;
2. There was no evidentiary basis to conclude that Mr. Smith was racially biased against black leadership at CSA; and
3. There was no evidentiary basis to conclude Mr. Smith’s appointment of Mr. Mark Boucher, rather than Mr. Enoch Nkwe, as coach of the men’s Proteas team in 2019 amounted to unfair racial discrimination.
The arbitration award directed CSA to pay Mr. Smith’s costs.
The full arbitration award, which runs to 95 pages, will be available atwww.cricket.co.za on Monday, 25 April 2022 at 08h00.
th
In 16
Place with 506 hits
Lawson Naidoo, Chair of the CSA Board, commented: “The manner in which these issues have been dealt with and resolved by the arbitration proceedings confirms CSA’s commitment to deal with the SJN issues in a manner that treats them with utmost seriousness but also ensures fairness, due process, and finality.”
Naidoo added: “Now that finality on these processes has been reached, it is appropriate to recognise the extraordinary contribution that Graeme has made to South African cricket, first as the longestserving test captain in cricket history and then as Director of Cricket from 2019 to 2022. His role as the DoC has been critical in rebuilding the Proteas Men’s team in particular and has laid a solid foundation for his successor.”
Mr Smith’s contract as the Director of Cricket ended, as per his original contract term, at the end of March 2022 and CSA has publicly advertised the position. Naidoo commented: “We fully appreciate that after his time as the DoC, Graeme wants new challenges in the commercial and cricket worlds. He has a long career ahead of him and we very much hope that he will still work in the cricket world in appropriate capacities going forward.”
CSA appreciates it has been difficult for Mr. Smith to endure the unwarranted public disclosures of his personal information, including his remuneration, during the SJN process. CSA regrets that this occurred and wishes Mr. Smith everything of the best going forward.
Pholetsi Moseki, the CEO of CSA commented: “On behalf of the Exco, staff and players at CSA, I would like to thank Graeme for all that he did as the Director of Cricket. He put up his hand at a particularly tumultuous period for CSA and he has often gone beyond his contracted duties to assist CSA during his term.”
In 15th Place with 508 hits
SOUTH AFRICA QUAD TEAM MAKE BNP PARIBAS WORLD TEAM CUP HISTORY
FIRST AFRICAN TEAM TO REACH CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS AT ITF’S FLAGSHIP WHEELCHAIR TENNIS TEAM EVENT.
ITF WHEELCHAIR WORLD TEAM CUP
South Africa’s quad team made BNP Paribas World Team Cup history on the fourth day of this year’s competition after becoming the first African team to reach one of the four championship finals at the ITF’s flagship wheelchair tennis team event.
Credit: Mathilde Dusol
After successive bronze medals in 2019 and 2021, South Africa can look forward to an upgrade this year, but to lift the World Team Cup trophy in Saturday’s final and take home the gold medals, Donald Ramphadi, Lucas Sithole and Danny Mohlamonyane will need to find a formula to turn round the result of their round-robin group contest against top seeds Netherlands.
South Africa started this year’s event as seventh seeds, due to former world No. 2 Lucas Sithole currently not having a ranking. However, with the 2013 US Open champion returning to international competition this week for the first time since September 2019, his experience of playing at the highest level paid off, even if he is yet to regain peak performance, as he launched South Africa’s 2-1 win over a Brazilian team also looking to reach a first World Team Cup final.
Sithole held off Leandro Pena 6-2 2-6 6-2 in his first career match against the Brazilian, but world No. 7 Ramphadi was in no mood to entertain any thoughts of a third set against world No. 8 Ymanitu Silva, racing through the second singles match 6-0 6-1.
“I’m very excited for us to be going to the finals for the first time,” said 28-year-old Ramphadi. “I’m very happy with how my teammate Lucas played, because he really made the job easier for me, but then also for my own performance. And to be the first team from Africa to make it to the World Team Cup finals and for me to be a part of that, I’m really happy.”
Donald Ramphadi and Lucas Sithole (RSA)Having beaten South Africa 3-0 in their group match that spanned two days of play due to rain, Netherlands Sam Schroder and Niels Vink again set out on a mission in their semi-final against USA.
The world’s top two ranked players showed why they look set to dominate the sport for some time to come, Schroder defeating USA team debutant Eric Court 6-0 6-0 and world No. 1 Vink producing another clinical performance to beat former world No. 1 David Wagner 6-0 6-2.
AUSTRALIA AND GREAT BRITAIN HEAD JUNIOR SEMI-FINALISTS
In 2019 Australia and Great Britain fought out a memorable match tie-break at the end of the deciding doubles match in the World Team Cup junior final.
Three years later they could be set for another title decider after topping their respective roundrobin groups, with France and Netherlands completing a semi-final line-up featuring three previous champions of the Johan Cruyff Foundation-supported junior event.
Great Britain’s Joshua Johns, Andrew Penney and Dahnon Ward combined to earn Great Britain a 30 win over Brazil in their last contest in Group A. The British team had previously beaten France and USA 3-0, but as France met USA in a must-win contest for both teams it was the French duo of Ksenia Chasteau and Justin Michel that won the deciding doubles match tie-break for a 6-4 5-7 (108) victory.
As Australia ended their Group B contests with a 3-0 win over Argentina, Netherlands 2-0 win over 2021 champions Japan does not do justice to the competitiveness of the tie, with both singles rubbers going to three sets.
Great Britain will face Netherlands and Australia will play France in Friday's semi-finals.
In 14th Place with 509 hits
DOUBLE BRONZE FOR SA PAIR IN BRISTOL
SOUTH AFRICA LEFT BRISTOL WITH TWO BRONZE MEDALS TO SHOW FOR THEIR EFFORTS IN THE WORLD BOWLS INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS.
Team South Africa will no doubt take the positives from a demanding week on the artificial surfaces in England. It bodes well for when the rest of the national team join Jason Evans and Colleen Piketh for the Commonwealth Games later in the year.
South African duo Jason Evans and Colleen Piketh were undone in the semi-finals of the Mixed Pairs. Their efforts against Scottish duo of Michael Stepney and Claire Anderson, who ended Piketh's run in the Singles at the Last 16 stage, were commendable as they won the opening set.
Unfortunately, the Scots, who would ultimately go on to lose the final, won the second 8-6 to set up a tie break which South Africa lost.
Evans then was up against Stepney in the Men's Singles semi-finals but there would be no revenge as the Scot produced a stellar game to win both sets. Stepney would go on to win the final and claim gold.
In a much-anticipated return to international competition, two bronze medals from the three formats will go down as a successful event for the top South African duo, who continue to deliver outstanding results at the highest level.
In 13th Place with 517 hits
LIFESAVING SA NATIONAL TEAM SHINE AT ISL LIFESAVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ITALY
SOUTH AFRICA'S NATIONAL SQUAD FINISH 8TH OVERALL AT THE 2022 ILS LIFESAVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Lifesaving South Africa national squad showed their class to finish 8th overall at the 2022 ILS Lifesaving World Championships held in Riccione, Italy.
Every two years the ILS Lifesaving World Championships showcases excellence in lifesaving sport and rescue; attracting the most talented and skilled lifesaving athletes from around the world to compete for the title of World’s best.
This was set to take place in 2020, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic it was postponed to September 2022 with a reduced programme at the expense of Interclub, IRB and Surfboat events. Only the National Teams Youth, Open, and master’s Championships were held.
With a relatively inexperienced squad, South Africa showed their dominance in the Surf events. The Proteas finished 3rd in the Championships in both the Open and Youth Surf competitions and placed 8th overall in the combined Open and Youth for Surf and Pool.
The South African Junior athletes were exceptionally strong on the sand with Jenna Tarr taking silver in the Junior Girl’s sprint and Nikki Challenor just missing out on a medal to finish 4th. Jenna also
finished 5th in the Beach sprints and the Junior Girls team showed their mettle to claim silver in the Beach Relay.
In the Junior Boy’s Beach Sprints, Max Davidson won bronze and was closely followed by Samuel Booysen in 4th. The biggest celebration, though, was for Samuel who outshone his strong opposition from Spain to win gold for South Africa in the Beach Flags. Samuel showed a wonderful display of courage to keep fighting back against the rest of the field. In the final run he slipped on his take off, but with speed he managed to outdo his competition to take gold and the title of World Champion.
Another World Champion is that of junior Naor Lombard who finished in the top 6 in all his individual events with the bronze medal in Ironman, Taplin and Mixed Ocean Lifesaver events, 4th in Board Rescue and 6th in the Board Race. His finest moment came when he slipped up the inside of the lead pack who were busy holding off his young teammate Levi Mayes, winning the gold to claim the World Champion title in the Surf Ski.
The Junior Girl’s duo of Georgia Singe and Tatum Botha were impressive in their events with Georgia placing 4th in Ironwoman, 5th in Board while Tatum placed 8th in Ironwoman, 9th in Board, 5th in Surf Swim and the team events included a 4th for Taplin, Board Rescue 5th, Tube Rescue 8th and a bronze medal for the Mixed Ocean Lifesaver event.
The South African Open team showed their experience in the Beach Flags with former double World Champion Ryle de Morny taking the silver medal, while Chevan Clarke had to bow out due to injury in 6th place. Ryle also claimed bronze in the Beach Sprint, with Chevan finishing 6th while the Men’s Beach Relay team pushed hard to finish 5th.
In the women’s Flags, Ellen Kleinsmidt placed 8th and Melissa Corbett was knocked out at 15th. Melissa pushed hard on the sand, coming in 6th in the Women’s Beach Sprints.
In the Surf, the Open team gave a good account of themselves. Mark Keeling stole the show to take the World Championship title, this time in senior Surf Ski, making it a double victory for our men, and showing Team South Africa’s strength in the water. Mark was in the lead pack from the start and put down the hammer to claim gold and gave a captain’s salute as he crossed the finish line.
The talented duo of Sasha Corris and Amica de Jager showed their class with Sasha placing 9th and Amica 12th in the Ironwomen, 13th and 14th in Board, 13th in Taplin, 6th in Mixed Ocean Lifesaver, 8th in Tube Rescue and Sash placing 8th in Surf Swim.
Another talented duo of Cheyne Haupt and Luke Nisbet added points to the South Africa’s overall tally with Cheyne 8th and Luke 9th in Ironman, Cheyne 9th and Luke 10th in Board, 5th in Tube Rescue, 3rd in Men’s Taplin, and Cheyne also placing 9th in Surf Ski and Luke 10th in Surf Swim.
In the Pool, the Open and Youth teams added valuable points to their overall tally, which cannot be underestimated, and this helped Team South Africa finish 8th overall with a total of 784.50 points.
In the Senior Pool events, Kendra du Toit placed 6th in both the 200m Super Lifesaver and 100m Manikin Tow with fins, 7th in 100m Manikin Carry with fins, with the Women’s team placing 2nd in the 4x25m Manikin Relay and 5th in the 4 x 50m Obstacle Relay (B finals).
Len-Douglas MacKay finished in 6th in the 100m Manikin Tow with fins, and 4th in 200m Super Lifesaver, which saw him breaking the South African record.
Aiden Bornman shone in the Juniors Pool events, being the only SA team member to make three A finals, finishing 7th in 200m Obstacle, 8th in 200m Super Lifesaver and 8th in 100m Rescue Medley.
Aiden also placed 6th in 100m Manikin Tow with fins, 1st in 50m Manikin Carry, 7th in mixed 4x50m Obstacle Relay, 8th in 4x50m Medley Relay (B finals).
The Junior Girls team results were impressive; in the 4x50m Obstacle Relay they powered to 2nd place, in the 4x25m Manikin they claimed 1st place, and in the 4x50m Medley Relay they finished a credible 5th (B finals).
“The team displayed some great results in both the youth and open competitions. We set out to place in the top three and that's what we achieved. We are extremely happy with the team’s overall performance, South Africa walk away with a nice basket of medals and several SA records in the pool. The team really did their best and the results speak for themselves,” commented Mike Rodda, National Team Manager.
Congratulations to all the athletes on a successful World Championships, and a huge thank you to the management, coaches, and supporters.
Full Results for South Africa
Open and Youth Overall
8th with 784.50 points
Open Results:
Surf: 3rd, 278.50 points
Pool: 16th, 33 points
Overall: 9th, 311.50 points
Open Individual Results:
Surf
• Ironwoman: Sasha Corris 9th, Amica de Jager 12th
• Ironman: Cheyne Haupt 8th, Luke Nisbet 9th
• Women beach sprint: Melissa Corbett 6th
• Men beach sprint: Ryle de Morny 3rd, Chevan Clarke 6th
• Men beach relay 5th
• Women board: Sasha Corris 13th, Amica de Jager 14th
• Men surf ski: Mark Keeling 1st, Cheyne Haupt 9th
• Women rescue tube rescue: SA 8th
• Men rescue tube rescue: SA 5th
• Women Taplin: SA 13th
• Men Taplin: SA 3rd
• Women Beach Flags: Ellen Kleinsmidt 8th, Melissa Corbett 15th
• Men Beach Flags: Ryle de Morny 2nd, Chevan Clarke 6th
• Men Board: Cheyne Haupt 9th, Luke Nisbet 10th
• Women Surf Swim: Sasha Corris 8th
• Men Surf Swim: Luke Nisbet 10th
• Mixed Ocean Lifesaver: SA 6th
Pool
• Women 4 x 50m Obstacle relay: 5th B final
• Women 100m manikin tow with fins: Kendra du Toit 6th B final
• Men 100m manikin tow with fins: Len-Douglas Mackay 6th B final
• Women 4x25m manikin relay: SA 2nd B final
• Women 200m Super Lifesaver: Kendra du Toit 6th B final
• Men 200m Super Lifesaver: Len-Douglas Mackay 4th B final
• Women 100m manikin carry with fins: Kendra du Toit 7th B final
• Mixed 4x50 Lifesaver relay: SA 7th B final
Junior Results:
Surf: 3rd, 394 points
Pool: 10th, 79 points
Overall: 7th, 473 points
Surf
• Ironwomen: Georgia Singe 4th, Tatum Botha 8th
• Ironman: Naor Lomboard 3rd, Christian Davidson 6th
• Women board rescue: SA 5th
• Men board rescue: SA 4th
• Women beach sprint: Jenna Tarr 2nd, Nicolette Challenor 4th
• Men beach sprint: Max Davidson 3rd, Samuel Booysen 4th
• Women beach relay: SA 2nd
• Men beach relay: SA 6th
• Women board: Georgia Singe 5th, Tatum Botha 9th
• Men surf ski: Naor Lombard 1st, Levi Mayes 4th
• Women tube rescue: SA 8th
• Women Taplin: SA 4th
• Men Taplin: SA 3rd
• Women Beach flags: Jenna Tarr 5th
• Men Beach Flags: Samuel Booysen 1st, Max Davidson 14th
• Women surf ski: Georgia Singe 6th
• Men board race: Levi Mayes 4th, Naor Lombard 6th
• Women surf swim: Tatum Botha 5th, Holly Cleworth 11th
• Men surf swim: Christian Davidson 6th, Aiden Bornman 25th
• Mixed Ocean Lifesaver: SA 3rd
Pool
• Men 200m obstacle: Aiden Bornman 7th in A final, Christian Davidson 4th in B final
• Women 4x50m obstacle relay: SA 2nd in B final
• Men 4x50m obstacle relay: SA 7th in B final
• Men 100m manikin tow with fins: Aiden Bornman 6th in B final
• Men 50m manikin carry: Aiden Bornman 1st in B final
• Women 4x25m manikin relay: SA 1st in B final
• Men 200m super lifesaver: Aiden Bornman 8th in A final
• Women 4x50m medley relay: SA 5th in B final
• Men 4x50m medley relay: SA 8th in B final
• Men: 100m rescue medley: Aiden Bornman 8th in A final
• Mixed 4x50m Lifesaver relay: SA 4th in B final
In 12th Place with 518 hits
SA HOCKEY SENIOR WOMEN APPOINT NEW TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
SA HOCKEY APPOINT KURT CERFONTYNE AS TECHNICAL DIRECTOR: SA HOCKEY SENIOR WOMEN
South African Hockey has today announced the appointment of Kurt Cerfontyne as the Technical Director: SA Hockey Senior Women. The role is until the Paris 2024 Olympics and will see Cerfontyne responsible for a number of aspects, including:
• Advising the Head Coach on Technical and Tactical Aspects.
• Supporting the Head Coach in managing and delivering the SA Ladies Hockey Program.
• Assisting in developing and building a team culture of excellence.
• Developing sound relationships with team staff and players.
• Mentorship, support, development, and education of identified coaches.
• Developing and implementing a coach evaluation system.
• Supporting the Strategic Objectives of SA Hockey.
Cerfontyne was appointed in 2001 as the SA Hockey Boys U16 side, before heading to the Junior World Cup in 2005 as an assistant and 2009 as the Head Coach. Further to this Kurt was also the assistant coach under Greg Clarke for the SA National Men’s side from 2007 to 2012 going to both the Beijing and London Olympics.
After a short break Cerfontyne joined up with SA Head Coach Giles Bonnet as the Assistant Coach for the SA Womens team including the 2014 FIH World Cup, continuing the role under Sheldon Rostron which incorporated FIH World Cup 2018 and the Commonwealth Games.
Kurt has been working as Western Province Hockey Unions HP coaching co-ordinator since 2014 and is a lifelong member of Central Hockey Club.
SA Hockey CEO Marissa Langeni:
“Kurt has shown tremendous commitment for a sustained period to the South African Hockey environment. He has always been above reproach and committed to further the game in our country. I have no doubt that Kurt’s role with the SA Hockey Women will empower them to achieve their potential on the International stage. Good luck!
In 11th Place with 521 hits
SA MENS HOCKEY VS ARGENTINA FIH PRO LEAGUE
South Africa continued their inaugural debut campaign in the FIH Pro League in Buenos Aires as they took on Argentina. South Africa is participating in the tournament for this season only as a stand-in for Australia who had withdrawn due to COVID Related travel restrictions.
The South Africans had lost the eight games in the Potchefstroom leg with lessons shown and improvement throughout losing 2-1 and 3-1 in the final two games to France and Germany respectively. The challenge would not be any easier taking on the 2016 Olympic Gold medallists and the current world number six.
They welcomed back Tim Drummond, Sam Mvimbi and Matt Guise-Brown to the team but were also missing a few stalwarts in the squad due to club or work commitments. Coach Garreth Ewing also was unable to travel due to recovery from illness. It was a frustrating start of the South Africans as they could not get stick to the ball and an early penalty corner was converted by the Argentines through a deflection, although nobody appeared to be certain that the ball had crossed the line. Despite the umpires reviewing there was no clear evidence and the goal for Frederico Monja. One quickly became two as the Argentinean contingent settled quickly and the South Africans were struggling with the pace, Fernandez finishing easily. Despite dominating the possession, the South Africans pulled a goal back with some good high pressing. Vice-Captains Keenan Horne and Bili Ntuli combined for Ntuli to react to a save quickly and finish into the back of the net and breath some life into the African Challenge.
South Africa earned their first penalty corner in the second quarter and despite a mis-trap created a wonderful opportunity, but the chance was missed as debutant Guy Morgan was unable to get a solid connection on the cross. Poor Discipline from South Africa led to a penalty corner for Argentina shortly after, but Siya Nolutshungu was quick with his feet to deny the South Americans.
It was a much better showing in the second quarter from the African Champions who were able to deny the opportunities for the hosts while also limiting the amount of possession. The first half
TREMENDOUS EFFORT FROM SOUTH AFRICA FALLS JUST SHORT IN ARGENTINEAN DEFEATended 2-1 to the hosts with both looking to turn it on in the second half. An early green card for South Africa was shown to Guy Morgan and the Argentinean side were looking to raise the tempo and pressure on their visitors. The South Africans were able to hold out during the numbers advantage though and the score remained 2-1 to the hosts. Argentina was awarded a penalty corner due to a stick check from Jethro Eustice halfway through the quarter and it would be telling as the Argentines would score with a low shot by Lautaro Ferraro straight through Estiaan Krieks legs to re-establish a two-goal lead.
Good work by Chad Futcher earned the South Africans a penalty corner with just a couple of minutes remaining in the third quarter. Guise-Brown superbly finished the opportunity, his 30th international goal for the penalty corner star. But almost immediately South Africa were sucker punched as the two-goal lead was restored when Sarto picked up the loose ball in the circle and fired home easily. Despite some good possession for the South Africans, they were not able to score before the hooter and it remained 4-2 with 15 minutes remaining.
The influential Bili Ntuli won South Africa another penalty corner three minutes into the final quarter. It was a rocket for Guise-Brown to make it 4-3 and put the South Africans back in the hunt once again. Debutant Trevor de Lora nearly had a chance but a brilliant save by Bosso denied him as South Africa sought for a leveller.
South Africa were pressing high while the Argentines were trying their hardest to dilute the time remaining.The pressure from the South Africans paid dividends as they won a penalty corner with just 4 minutes remaining on the clock. A wonderful save from Bosso though resulted in another penalty corner and it was another Bosso save from a Guise-Brown drag that kept the one goal lead. South Africa were desperate for an equalizer and pulled keeper Siya Nolutshungu, but it was not to be for the South Africans, who had to settle for a one goal defeat.
Bili Ntuli, South African Vice-Captain, shared his thoughts after the game.
“It was an honour to play in this brilliant stadium with this wonderful crowd. We want to continue to compete and develop and we look forward to the privilege of playing again tomorrow!”
The two teams will meet again on Sunday 24 April at 21:00 SA Time to complete their two tests for the 2021 FIH Pro League.
In 10th Place with 525 hits
BREAKING NEWS: MARISSA LANGENI STEPS DOWN AS CEO OF SA HOCKEY
SOUTH AFRICAN HOCKEY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MARISSA LANGENI RESIGNS
South African Hockey Chief Executive Officer Marissa Langeni has announced her resignation from the role after serving for just short of 13 years. She will depart the role on the 1 May to take up a new opportunity.
SOUTH AFRICAN HOCKEY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MARISSA LANGENI HAS ANNOUNCED HER RESIGNATION
Langeni was appointed to the role on 1 July 2009 under then president of SA Hockey Dave Carr and served under the leadership of Mike Du Plessis and currently Deon Morgan. Marissa Langeni was the first ever appointed CEO of SA Hockey and will go down in history as one of the very first few female CEOs in South African sport. There were many highlights in her time at SA Hockey including South Africa’s hosting of the FIH Champions Challenge, Hockey World League, FIH Pro League, Olympic Qualifiers, the African Cup of Nations and of course the formation and development of the Premier Hockey League. The country has also currently hosted a very successful first ever African hosted World Cup, the FIH Hockey Womens Junior World Cup in Potchefstroom.
Langeni has stated that it was the right time for her to move on from the role:
“These roles are incredible, challenging and fulfilling. It’s been a remarkable journey over the past nearly 13 years. I have always put the interests of South African Hockey first and foremost and can look back with pride at my time in the role. Having been appointed as SA Hockey’s first CEO, there was no blue print for the role and I had an unbelievable opportunity to make a mark in the sport industry. I’d like to thank the various boards that have supported me over the years in particular to Dave Carr, Mike Du Plessis and Deon Morgan. It has been a privilege to contribute to the growth of hockey and to the success of our various national teams. It is the right time for me to step aside from
hockey and attempt a new challenge. I will still be an avid hockey fan and will enjoy the opportunity to sit in the stands supporting our teams”!
SA HOCKEY PRESIDENT DEON MORGAN WAS THANKFUL OF THE SERVICE SHOWN BY LANGENI FOR OVER A DECADE IN THE ROLE.
“Marissa was always known as the "face of hockey", but in my opinion a more appropriate description would be the "heart of SA hockey". Marissa has made it her duty to build relationships with all stakeholders yet would also make deliveries at the airport for a departing SA team. We want to thank you Marissa for your service, passion, commitment and values, as hockey in South Africa benefited tremendously from all you brought. We wish you well in your new role”
Shaune Baaitjies, who has been involved in hockey administration as the SA Hockey Governance Subcommittee Chairperson recently and specifically the SA Hockey Executive where she was responsible for the development portfolio on the SA Hockey Executive back in 2000, will serve as the acting CEO during the transition process. The Board will advertise for the position in due course.
In 9th Place with 536 hits
GAUTENG LADIES BASEBALL LEAGUE 2022
GAUTENG LADIES BASEBALL LEAGUE RETURNS ON 22ND MAY 2022
Following the incredible success of the first-ever " League Of Their Own" ladies baseball league held last year, the GPBC is excited to announce the launch of the new and improved Gauteng Ladies Baseball League starting on the 22nd of May 2022
The growing interest in this format of the sport has led to the GPBC increasing the number of teams available for players to join.
Our aim is to have every baseball-playing district represented by at least one club.
• JOHANNESBURG
Alex Baseball Club
Giants Baseball Club
Mets Baseball Club
• EASTERNS
Benoni Baseball Club
Boksburg Baseball Club
Palmridge Baseball Club
• NORTHERNS(PRETORIA)
Bulls Baseball Club
Valhalla Baseball Club
If you are interested and Keen To Join SIGN UP
Read the full statement by Gauteng Ladies Baseball League Gauteng Ladies Baseball League
In 8th Place with 541 hits
BSI JUNIOR ACADEMY STUDENT VUYISANI MAKAMA
VUYISANI MAKAMA HAS BEEN SELECTED FOR THE GOLFRSA NATIONAL SQUAD
Congratulations to BSI Junior Academy student Vuyisani Makama on his selection for the GolfRSA National Squad
Some excerpts from the Golf RSA Press release on Monday 11 April 2022:
Seven new players have been welcomed into the Men’s National Squad class of 2022, as GolfRSA continues to identify and develop the country’s most promising amateur golfers.
The ultimate aim of the GolfRSA National Squad is to produce stronger national teams and provide individuals with the best preparation to be the best golfers they can be.
“Due to the incredible groundwork laid by the clubs, unions, coaches and academies, there are many highly talented young golfers coming through the system and the depth of talent in this country is remarkable,” explained GolfRSA CEO Grant Hepburn.
…Gauteng-based junior selected is Vuyisani Makama, who has been successful on the union’s local junior circuit. The 16-year-old South African Golf Development Board member finished second last year in his first national appearance in the 2021 Nomads Gowrie Farm Under-15 Challenge and this year took his game to the Open Amateur circuit, where he reached the match play stage in the SA Amateur.
Well done Vuyisani. The BSI community is very proud of you and we wish you all the best in the future!!
In 7th Place with 693 hits
BSI FOOTBALL ACADEMY & SPORTING CLUB FARENSE
INTERNATIONAL SOCCER CAMP – 25 TO 27 FEBRUARY 2022
The Balderstone Sports Institute (BSI) Football Academy and Sporting Club Farense, Portugal partnership is excited to announce the date for our annual International Soccer Camp hosted at our exclusive BSI Football Campus in Modderfontein, Johannesburg. The international camp will take place from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 February 2022.
The SC Farense coaches will give players ages 13 to 19 years old, the unique opportunity to have a lifetime soccer experience as they bring their European knowledge and expertise to our African shores. The BSI Football Academy is show-casing this three-day, non-residential camp at our newly revamped Modderfontein Campus, as we continue creating new football experiences in a positive and professional environment.
The fee for the camp is R3,000 per person and each player will receive a training kit, goodie bag, and daily meals.
To sign up, players must send an email to football@bsisports.com. Limited places are available.
BSI_ISC__press_release_20220124.pdf
In 6th Place with 803 hits
BSI ACADEMY STUDENTS-CHAMPIONS IN THE MAKING
We’ve had another busy and successful week across all areas of our academy. One of our Study Centre students was selected for the SA women’s national U17 women’s football squad, while a former student Dylan Salton was selected for the SA men’s Davis Cup tennis team. Our football department hosted a hugely successful international soccer camp with coaches from the Portuguese soccer club SC Farense. Excitingly, 9 players were invited to attend trials in Portugal. Meanwhile, our golfers have had another successful week with many personal breakthroughs.
BSI JUNIOR ACADEMY PLAYER OF THE MONTH
Congratulations to Vuyisani Makama who was voted as BSI Junior Academy Player of the month for February.
Vuyisani won 2 medals during the month with a stroke average of 71.33. He finished T45 at the SA Amateur Championship at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington GC and shot a 7-under, 65 in the opening round of the SA Strokeplay Championship at Randpark GC.
Vuyisani has now been voted for two months in a row as Player of the Month. Well Done Vuyisani, keep up with your practice as it has definitely shown in your competitive game.
Tatiana Correia South African Women’s Under 17 National Team (Bantwana)
BSI Tournament Results
BSI Junior Academy Medal
Congratulations to Vuyisani Makama on his 1st place finish in the BSI Junior Academy medal with a score of 71 on Royal Johannesburg and Kensington East Course on Friday 25 February 2022. Well played Vuyisani, you have shown great form and true ability to consistently put in great rounds of golf.
BSI Premier Medal
Well done to Alex Lane, Divan Visagie & Sean Paxton for their joint win in the BSI Golf Premier Medal with scores of 72, played on Friday 25 February 2022 on Royal Johannesburg & Kensington East Course.
This is the second time this year we have had three players tied, with Alex involved in both of them. It was also Divan’s first win in a medal tournament and we wish him many more. The score of 72 was also both players Personal Bests for the year. Sean’s tied win also keeps him in second place in the Order of Merit and closing the gap on 1st place.
Personal Bests from the BSI Golf Premier Medal:
Karl-Heinz Meinke 84
Jayson Borcher 85
Tanish Gudhka 86
Vuyisani MakamaCara Bosman 89
Alex Lane, Divan Visagie & Sean Paxton
Player of the Month for February
BSI College Player of the Month
Congratulations to Bernard Meyer who was voted as BSI College Player of the month for February.
Bernard won 1 medal during the month with a stroke average of 69. He finished T2 at the SA Amateur Championship as well as T17 in the Matchplay section at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington GC.
Bernard finished T25 in the African Amateur Championship at Leopard Creek. Well Done Bernard!
External Tournament Results
Club Champs – Blue Valley Golf Course
Congratulations to Mangezi Maswanganyi for his 1st place finish at the Blue Valley Club Champs over the weekend in the Men’s A Division.
2022
Club Champs – Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Course
Results from this past weekend’s Club Championship played at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington GC saw BSI students take top honours in all three of the junior divisions.
Bernard Meyer. Mangezi Maswanganyi – Blue Valley Club Champ
Jamie Senekal – Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Junior Champion
Jonathan Henry - Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Junior B Division Champion
Connor Olfsen - Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Junior C Division Champion
BSI Junior Academy graduate Eleanora Galletti also won the Ladies Club Championship, which is the 8th time she has won the event.
Eleanora Galletti– Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Ladies Champion
Other notable mentions from Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Club Champs 2022:
• Jules Helary – 3rd 18-holes gross – Men’s A Division (72)
• Jonathan Henry – Winner 18-holes nett – Men’s B Division (68)
• Connor Olfsen – Runner up 18-holes gross – Men’s C Division (79)
North West Women’s Open Championship 2022
Well done to Cara Bosman, 1st year PGA Diploma student for winning the North West Women’s Open ‘B’ Division Championship played at Pecanwood Golf Estate. Cara shot a Personal Best 77 over the weekend to take her first tournament win. Congratulations and wishing you many more to come.
Pirie Cup
Well done to Team BSI of Lefa Maseng, Pieter-Andre van der Merwe, Pranay Kapur and Tylah James on their 3rd place finish in the Pirie Cup at Pecanwood Golf Estate. Well played to the four of you and may you continue to do BSI proud in all your upcoming tournaments and challenges. Tylah James also won Best Nett of 66 for Day 1
In 5th Place with 811 hits
SOUTH AFRICAN ISABELLA KRUGER ADVANCES TO THE SECOND ROUND OF THE JUNIOR WIMBLEDON CHAMPIONSHIPS.
South African 17-year-old tennis prodigy Isabella Kruger beat Sonya Macavei 7-5, 5-7, 6-2 on Sunday to advance to the second round of the Junior Wimbledon Championships.
Isabella will next face fourth seed and world No.12 junior Nikola Daubnerova of Slovakia.
Kruger qualified on Friday for the main draw after an impressive run that saw her win two qualifying rounds without losing a set.
Kruger thrashed world No. 86 junior Madeleine Jessup from Taiwan 6-2, 6-1 in the first round of qualifying before defeating American Theadora Rabman, 6-0, 6-2 in her second qualifying match to secure her spot in the main draw event.
Place with 862 hits
THE 2022/23 SEASON WILL SEE THE FULL CRICKET SOUTH AFRICA (CSA) NATIONAL WEEKS RETURN
JOHANNESBURG: The 2022/23 Season will see the full Cricket South Africa (CSA) national weeks return to normal after COVID-19 disruptions in the past two years.
The University Sports South Africa (USSA) Cricket week kicked off in Pretoria on Monday, with 25 teams from Universities across the country participating in the tournament.
This will be followed by the Boys U16 Week from 11-14 December in Johannesburg and the Girls U16 Week from 12-15 December in East London.
The Girls U19 Week will be held in Bloemfontein from 13-16 December and the CSA Khaya Majola Week will commence from 15-18 December in Stellenbosch.
Niels Momberg, Youth & Tertiary Cricket Manager, commented on the importance of CSA Youth Weeks as they serve as a breeding ground for talent in the country.
“After massive disruptions due to the COVID pandemic, Youth and Tertiary cricket are back in full swing and not a minute too late,” commented Momberg.“The Annual Youth and USSA tournaments play a vital and irreplaceable part in the CSA pipeline. The USSA A and B Tournaments are underway at the University of Pretoria, culminating in the finals and other play-off matches on Friday. The first of the National Youth Tournaments commences on Sunday, 11 December in Gauteng, hosted by Lions Cricket while the rest will follow across the country. We expect high-quality cricket and topclass levels of organisational excellence in all tournaments,” Momberg concluded.
USSA A Fixtures
USSA B Fixtures
Girls U19 Fixtures
Girls U16 Fixtures
Boys U16 Fixtures
Khaya Majola Fixtures
In 4th
ZOË PESTANA FIRST GIRL TO MAKE BOYS BASEBALL TEAM IN SA
FIRST FEMALE PLAYER TO BE SELECTED FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN ELITE TRAINING SQUAD
Zoë Pestana a devoted and proud Grade 9 learner of Curro Aurora, recently made history as the first female player to be selected for the South African elite training squad under the South African Baseball Union.
Zoë, who started her ‘ball’ journey at the age of eight initially only played softball like her older sister Maddie, but soon her talent was noticed, and she started to attend the METS practices even though it was only for boys. She was determined to play baseball instead of softball and under the guidance of her coach John White she has grown from strength to strength making the all-boys provincial side every single year.
Finally in 2021 a female baseball side was started which she played for as well, while still, she continued to play for the boy’s side as well. By making the Gauteng softball side - it was a very busy time, but she managed everything in her stride including her impressive grades at school!
During April, the Gauteng U15 boys side made it to the finals of the tournament after a grueling 5 days of games playing against all the provincial sides. Zoë had the honour and privilege of being the starting pitcher in the final for Gauteng against Western Cape.
The selections for the U15 Elite training squad were made at this tournament and she made the side which will train for several weeks where they will make their final cut for the SA side traveling to Mexico in August of this year.
If you ask Zoë where she sees herself with baseball, she’s aiming for the MLB but is also happy to just continue with the game and the second family she has discovered within the baseball-softball fraternity!
In 3rd Place
with 876 hits
In 2nd Place with 898 hits
BSI FOOTBALL ACADEMY PARTNERS WITH WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS FOOTBALL CLUB
BSI FOOTBALL ACADEMY PARTNERS WITH ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS FOOTBALL CLUB
Balderstone Sports Institute Football Academy is excited to announce an international partnership with English Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, commonly known as Wolves.
The partnership brings many benefits to the Academy, its players, and the wider local football community. The collaboration includes monthly education workshops between the coaches of Wolves and BSI Football, ensuring that the local academy is up to date with the latest coaching trends and player development ideas from Europe.
BSI Football Academy will also be hosting coaches from Wolves for annual training camps at its new training facility in Modderfontein, Johannesburg, where local players will have the opportunity to learn directly from Wolves coaches.
THE FIRST WOLVES TRAINING CAMP WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 30TH SEPTEMBER TO 2ND OCTOBER 2022.
Speaking about the partnership, Joe Hunt, International Projects Manager at Wolves had this to say;
“We are delighted to announce our partnership with Balderstone Sports Institute in Johannesburg, South Africa. Over the next few years we will be supporting BSI with football coaching activities in Johannesburg, but also opening the door for them to come to the UK and experience a professional academy environment. We are excited to be coming to South Africa later in the year to coach young players and continue our coach education with the staff at BSI Football Academy.
Welcome to the Pack BSI!”
Wolves have had previous success with international camps in USA and Australia, and BSI Football Academy is delighted to be able to now bring this experience to South Africa to upskill our local talent.
BSI Football’s Technical Director Zeca Marques added;
“The Wolves partnership is a vote of confidence for our Academy, and it gives enormous satisfaction to be associated with a dynamic and progressive English Premier League football club. The road to success is education, and this initiative is about sharing knowledge and expertise which will allow us to access the latest trends in youth development and accelerate the development of our students.”
In an amazing twist of fate, one of BSI’s current U17 players is the grandson of Cliff Durandt, who played for Wolves in the 1950’s and won the league with them. With this new partnership, we could see more South Africans making that same journey.
In 1st Place with 1523 hits
SA MASTERS HOCKEY HOSTS THE WORLD MASTERS HOCKEY WORLD CUP 2022 IN CAPE TOWN
WORLD MASTERS HOCKEY WORLD CUP HEADS TO CAPE TOWN
Following the original delay of the World Masters Hockey World Cup 2021 due to the Covid Pandemic, SA Masters Hockey is excited for the postponed tournament to take place in Cape Town from 1-10 October 2022. 84 teams from more than 20 nations will battle out the competition to ultimately be declared World Champions of the various tournaments.
Field Hockey is regarded as the third most popular sport globally with 2 billion followers. The World Masters Hockey World Cup (WC) represents the pinnacle of competitive Masters Hockey (35 – 85 age) and is presented biannually at host cities identified by World Masters Hockey (WMH).
SA Masters has been granted the right to host the 2022 edition in Cape Town for both men and ladies in the following age categories: 45+; 50+; 55+, and 60+; 65+ Ladies. The WC is held over 10 days with teams competing in a round-robin pool stage followed by play offs. Every team will be involved in a seeding playoff match on the last two days of the WC which culminates in the age category finals.
The City of Cape Town and the Western Cape Government will be the primary sponsors for the tournament, and it will be hosted by The South African Masters Hockey Association. Matches will be played in and around the Western Province Cricket and Hockey Club and Hartleyvale Hockey Stadium, which will be the primary venues for the WMH World Cup. Spectators and family members will also be allowed onto the sportsgrounds to watch the matches for free.
Reg Marais, President of SA Masters, believes that the WMH World Cup will represent a significant injection in the local economy as it is estimated that the participants could spend as much as R90 million during their stay in South Africa. SA Masters Hockey has also identified The Modified Hockey Programme as the legacy project which will enable local children to benefit from the World Cup.
The Opening Ceremony of the WMH World Cup Cape Town 2022 will be held on Friday 30th September 2022 at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront – (in front of the Zeitz Museum for Contemporary African Art in the Silo District) from 16h15 to 17h15. A public parade featuring all the participating nations led by the Cape Minstrels will commence at 16h00 from the V&A Harbour Pier and make its way to the Silo District. The participants will be addressed by various dignitaries with the main address being the Mayoral Committee Member, Alderman JP Smith.
For more information regarding the tournament and the attractions of the Beautiful Cape, please follow on Instagram (@mastershockeysa) or our website on www.samastershockey.co.za.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
SA Sports Press was supposed to launch in 2020. Due to effects of the terrible Covid virus that shut down all sporting events it was decided to place it on hold until the world returned to a sense of normalcy
We decided to do a relaunch in April of 2022 and have been very pleased with the growth of the website. From 200 users in April 2022 we have grown to 3000 viewers in January 2023.01.31
We are extremely grateful to the contributors who regularly send us press releases and hope that we are playing an important part in their desire to grow their sport.
As South Africans we genuinely believe in the positive effect that sport has on individuals, teams, family, fans and the Nation.
WHEN THE FLAG FLIES HIGH, WE LIFT OUR HEADS IN PRIDE!
