Game On Magazine October '15 issue 21

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ISSUE 21, OCTOBER 2015

The ultimate online Sports Magazine!

The ultimate online sports m

DYNAMIC DOMINIQUE MANN SA’s Aerobic Gymnastic Champ

mignon du preez

SA’s ladies cricket captain

WAYDE VAN NIEKERK

one of the world’s Finest Sprinters

BLACK background

Richard Murray

“Farmboy by heart, racer by nature”

parktown boys’ high Gives rugby an overhaul

rugby player to watch Donovan du randt


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The ultimate online sports magazine

contents Cover Feature Dynamic Dominique Mann SA’s Aerobic Gymnastic Champ Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Mr Price Sport, Neville Bailey & Provided

Main FeatureS deejay kriel Flyweight Dynamo with big dreams Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Words: Backpage Media | Photos: Cricket South Africa

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Graham Paull your attitude determines your altitude!

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Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Balint Vekassy / Gameplan Media

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ifbb 2015 South African CHampionships

Gauteng | South Africa

Words: Helen Calitz | Photos: Provided

Tel | +27 82 606 6736

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Emmanuel Sebareme africa t20 cup

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wayde van niekerk one of the world’s finest sprinters

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Words: Karien Jonckheere | Photos: Provided 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.

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Backpage Media

Helen Calitz

Balint Vekassy

Karien Jonckheere

barry coskey

Kassie Karstens

brian lee

Kyro Brower

cricket south africa

neil greig

Chris Dednam

Samuel Shivambu

Dan lombard

sascoc

Delly Carr

sasol

Gameplan Media

Wagner Araujo

Graeme Jackson

waterkloof high school SPECIAL THANK YOU TO MR PRICE SPORT FOR THE COVER PHOTO OF DOMINIQUE MANN

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mignon du preez SA’s Ladies Cricket Captain Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

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Richard Murray “Farmboy by heart, racer by nature” Words: Karien Jonckheere | Photos: Wagner Araujo & Delly Carr

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Sa Canoeists fly the SA flag high at ICF Marathon World Champs 2015 Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Balint Vekassy

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Issue 21, october 2 0 1 5

YOUTH Features

sporting News

parktown boys’ high gives rugby an overhaul

badminton: SA brings home 3 gold and 3 silver from 2015 African Games

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basketball: brain cele shows off his skills in Serbia!

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golf: Team Klofies win SA High School Golf Championships

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rugby: five durban high school boys make U/16 SA Rugby Team

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cricket: Pretoria Boys’ high win St. David’s T20 festival

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commonwealth youth games: team sa return with 13 golds

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squash: siyoli waters Siyoli kicks off in San Francisco

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soccer: bree primary school will fly the flag for sa at the danone nations cup 2015

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rugby: sa 7’s youngsters scoop gold at commonwealth youth games

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wheelchair basketball: amawheelaboys win Test series against New Zealand

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Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

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western cape soccer clubs what are the options? Words: Neil Greig | Photos: Provided

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Andrew and Alan Houston take aim at “Blood river” Words: Brian Lee | Photos: Kassie Karstens/Gameplan Media

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donovan du randt rugby player to watch Words: Neil Greig | Photos: Provided

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copa coca cola unites teenagers through 11 moves for unity Words: Neil Greig | Photos: Provided

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dynamic dominique mann SA’s Aerobic Gymnastic Champ

SA’s Aerobic Gymnastic

Champ

She is dynamic, energetic and her easy smile and zest for life are infectious. Dominque Mann is a bundle of energy whose life motto is “The impossible is possible. If you want something University of badly enough you KwaZulu-Natal can achieve it”.

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cover Feature: aerobic gymnastics

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Mr Price Sport, Neville Bailey & Provided

Dominique is South Africa’s most decorated female aerobic gymnast and her trophy cabinet and medal collection could rival any high achiever in the sports world, which is quite a feat in a sport that doesn’t receive much funding or publicity in South Africa. Dominique’s face is easily recognised as it is splashed all over Mr Price Sport outlets across South Africa, so adding ‘model’ to her resume of being one of the country’s top athletes is natural. Dominique puts paid to the notion of being a jack of all trades and a master of none as she is an accomplished dancer and part of the Sharkettes.

these gold finishes. She also won 2 silver medals, one for the Mixed Pair and the otherfor her individual performance. Dominique has being doing gymnastics her entire life but changed to the aerobic discipline after being headhunted by then national coach Tammy Zoutendyk and she immediately excelled in her new format. She is as passionate about gymnastics as she is about pole vaulting.

The 2015 All Africa Games in Brazzaville were marked by the inclusion of aerobic gymnastics for the first time. Team South Africa rose to the challenge and have returned home with 2 gold medals for the Team and Trio categories in which Dominique Mann formed an integral part of both

DOMINIQUE MANN Aerobic Gymnastic Champion

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dynamic dominique mann SA’s Aerobic Gymnastic Champ

“Tammy told me that I have the correct body type for aerobic gymnastics so I gave it a go. I had almost instant success and never looked back. It has taken me all over the world and my proudest moments have to be receiving my Proteas colours in 2003 and captaining the South African Gymnastics team.” Over and above being a world class aerobic gymnast, Mann is also an exceptional pole vaulter. In the 2015 SA Athletics Champs she came 3rd (Marileze Vos 1st, Carla Werth 2nd).“I started pole vaulting four years ago as I really wanted to do a second sport. I’m currently ranked third in the country which is great because it is an Olympic sport where as aerobic gymnastics is not. My goal is to qualify for the 2020 Olympics. If it happens now that would be great but 2020 is what I’m aiming for.”

sponsors and loved ones plays an important role in her success. Her determination to be the best shines through in her demeanour which is no surprise as she holds sprinter Usain Bolt in high regard.

Dominique is a full time athlete and trains 4-6 hours every day. The support she receives from her

“I’m fortunate to have Mr Price Sport as my principle sponsor because they pay me a salary which allows me to be a full-time sportswoman. They also provide me with the advice, equipment, clothing and support that I need to be able to compete at the highest level.”

“My training is very intensive. I do cardio, rhythm, precision, routine, strength and flexibility training as well as mental training. I also watch my diet, cut out sugars and I’m very strict on myself in the weeks before a competition.”

“The people closest to me are a great source of support. They comfort me when I have an off day and cheer me on when I achieve something. There are just too many to mention but they are all very special to me.”

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


cover Feature: aerobic gymnastics

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Mr Price Sport, Neville Bailey & Provided

Dominique does not have a lot of spare time to herself but when she does get the opportunity to relax she dances and spends time with her family and friends. She believes that everyone should try out gymnastics but it is not for the faint hearted. “Being South African, I’m a rugby fanatic. I dance in my off time and I’m a cheerleader for the Sharks. I’m not a party animal at all. I’m more of a movies

and hanging out with my friends and boyfriend kind of girl.” “Gymnastics is such an incredible sport. Most cities have several clubs that people can just sign up at. It will change your life and give you such joy. It is a difficult sport but if you’re headstrong and push through the difficult times you will reap the rewards.”

Dominique is a sporting anomaly as she is gifted in more than one discipline. She has achieved so much but one gets the feeling that Dominique is nowhere close to slowing down. She is an inspiration to many, not only because of her sporting success but because of her infectious positivity towards life.

More about dominique Fullname: Dominique Claire Mann Date of Birth: 28 June 1985 Place of Birth: Durban, South Africa High school attended: Crawford College North Coast Tertiary education: Bachelor of Music, UKZN Sponsors: Mr Price Sport, Oakley, Futurelife

BOROVETS AEROBICS WORLD CUP 2015

She enjoys: A good movie, chocolate, music and hanging out with her boyfriend and friends. Does not: Drink, “Not one drop, ever!” Describes herself as: “Motivated, spontaneous and competitive.” She is inspired by: Former Aerobic Gymnastics World Champion Gregory. “He has been both an inspiration and a mentor to me over the years. I have had the privilege of working one on one with him,” she says proudly

Mixed Pair - 2014 Aerobic Worlds, Cancun, Qualifications

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Deejay kriel flyweight dynamo with big dreams

Flyweight Dynamo with big dreams

Primrose Technical High School

Humans are generally creatures of habit, choosing to follow the tried and tested path. Every so often an individual bucks the trend and forges a new path for themselves. DeeJay Kriel, the flyweight dynamo, left Primrose Technical High School in Germiston, Johannesburg to pursue his boxing dream.

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main Feature: Boxing

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Deejay was born into a boxing family on the 20th of June 1995 in Malvern East, Johannesburg and started boxing when he was eight. His family’s boxing pedigree is unquestionable with Bennie Nieuwenhuizen and Mannetjies Roux crowned South African champions. Bennie was also the British Empire champion. Uncles Leo Gloss and Cassie Roux as well as grandfather Tommy Gloss were amateur boxers. Under the tutelage of Tommy, DeeJay took the first step towards professional boxing. In 2008, he moved over to Johnny du Plooy’s Boxing Academy where he trained with David Mazinyane. He moved to Rocky’s Gym in 2012 and was coached by Rocky Wainstein before signing with The Natural Teamin 2013 where Rupert van Aswegan tutored him. DeeJay considers Rupert the best coach he has worked with. He believes that it is the support he has gotten over the years that have helped him move swiftly up the ranks and helped him to move past the disappointment of his first professional fight.

“I didn’t finish school because boxing took all of my time. I knew from the get-go that I wanted to box and I turned professional last year. The support I get from my family, girlfriend and friends Daniel and Shaun is what motivates me to push harder,” said DeeJay.

Flyweight Dynamo with big dreams

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Deejay kriel flyweight dynamo with big dreams

“It was disappointing to lose my first fight especially on a split decision. I had only recently turned pro and didn’t have that many fights as an amateur. I think my last fight was when I was about 15. The majority of amateur fighters have around thirty to fifty fights under their belts before turning pro. Luckily I got to face Colin in a rematch for my next fight and I beat him then. It was a steep learning curve but I think it did my boxing well to lose it.” In 2014 DeeJay started boxing with Colin Nathan. Rupert was relocating to Cape Town and advised DeeJay that Colin was the best fit for his style of boxing. Colin only has good things to say about DeeJay.

“DeeJay is a very gifted boxer. He is the complete package. He’s a very humble guy which I like. He’s my kind of boxer. His future is bright and he can become the South African champion and quite possibly World champion,” said Colin. DeeJay is currently ranked sixth in South Africa. He is an orthodox (right handed) fighter and uses the counter-attack technique inspired by FloydMayweather. “The counter-attack technique is very technical. We wait for our opponent to strike first before unleashing our own attack. Floyd is definitely the boxer I look up to. He is technically astute. I have so much respect for him.”

Hot Boxing Talk with Deejay Kriel & Johnny Muller

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


main Feature: Boxing

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Boxing is widely considered a poor man’s sport but DeeJay feels that the lessons one learns from the sport are invaluable. He has big aspirations as a young boxer but is aware of the pitfalls that scatter the road to glory. “A lot of boxers grow up poor and have to overcome great difficulties to get to the top. Because of our backgrounds we are very resilient athletes and hardly ever give up. Boxing is etched into our beings. We live, eat and sleep boxing. It is a lifestyle which makes us disciplined as we have to be completely dedicated to boxing.” “Boxing doesn’t bring in a lot of money in the beginning so we have to make ends meet by using other methods. I work at a gym as an instructor but other guys

use more illicit means to make money. Throwing bouts is a well documented event in boxing. I can understand why some guys would do it but I don’t agree with it. All I have is my record and integrity and that lasts longer than any amount of money. A true boxer would never rig a fight.”

The journey has just begun for DeeJay and with his aspirations of being the South African and World flyweight champion he has to endure many more blows. His results speak for themselves and it is not a question of if but rather when for the young dynamo.

sponsors

Anima Mundi Summary of fights Fights: 6

Wins: 5

Total Knock Outs: 3

Opponent

Date

Venue

Summary

Colin Tloubatla

10 April 2014

Gold Reef City

Lost on points

Colin Tloubatla

26 June 2014

Presley’s

Unanimous decision

Clever Modigi

28 August 2014

Presley’s

Unanimous decision

Donald Khetsana

3 December 2014

Emperor’s Palace

TKO (3rd round)

Clever Modigi

13 April 2015

Emperor’s Palace

TKO (3rd round)

Thabo Moabi

30 July 2015

Emperor’s Palace

TKO (5th round)

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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Emmanuel Sebareme Africa T20 Cup

To say that Rwanda is not a country renowned for producing cricketing talent is a massive understatement, but this has not prevented 19-year-old Western Province off-spinner Emmanuel King Sebareme from chasing his sporting dreams.

Africa T20 Cup 12

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


main Feature: cricket

Words: Backpage Media | Photos: Cricket South Africa

Emmanuel’s parents fled wartorn Rwanda in the 1980s and walked through Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (where Emmanuel was born in December 1995) before eventually reaching South Africa when the boy was just five years old.

“We basically walked all the way from Rwanda. There were nights when it was very cold. I remember us leaving many things along the way because the journey was very long and we needed to travel light. We couldn’t carry many things with us,” Emmanuel said. “When I stay in a hotel now for cricket I lie there and look up at the ceiling and thank the Almighty for giving me the talent to play this great game. Without cricket I don’t know where I would be.”

Emmanuel first began playing cricket on the streets of Steenberg on the Cape Flats, before joining the Peninsula CC, where he immediately realised there was something different with the game at the next level. “It is actually a funny story. My friends and I played with a tennis ball in the road. But when I got to club cricket, the guys played with a red leather ball and it was quite hard,” he explained. “But it is here where I changed from bowling medium-fast to bowling spin. In fact, it wasn’t really spin, I just bowled slower and from a shorter run-up. The ball just happened to turn, and turn a lot in fact, and it is from here that people started noticing me and I got selected for the Western Province U/19 team that played in the Coca-Cola Khaya Majola Week last year.”

Africa T20 Cup

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Emmanuel Sebareme Africa T20 Cup

Emmanuel Sebareme - next big leg spinner

Emmanuel’s star was certainly on the rise and his performances were so impressive during the Khaya Majola Week that he gained selection to the SA Schools XI. He had also caught the eye of the senior selectors at Newlands and earned a couple of caps for the Western Province semi-professional team, claiming a credible 2 for 25 on debut against Griqualand West at Newlands. The next step up for the University of Western Cape economics student is the ongoing Africa T20 Cup.

“I can’t wait to play in the Africa T20 Cup. It is the biggest tournament of my career. I have been working really hard with our coach, Faiek Davids, during the winter. I am actually quite nervous because I am going to play against some Proteas, but the coach has worked on calming me down and giving me good game plans to execute,” said Emmanuel ahead of the start of the tournament.

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


main Feature: cricket

Words: Backpage Media | Photos: Cricket South Africa

The DRC-born player missed Western Province’s opening defeat to Easterns in Benoni on September 4, but made his Twenty20 debut just two days later against the Zimbabwe President’s XI at the same venue. He didn’t bat in Western Province’s innings of 145 for 3 from their 20 overs, but caught the eye with the ball, returning figures of 1 for 25 from his four overs. His wicket saw him bowl Zimbabwe opener and top-scorer Kevin Kasuza for 41, while his economy rate of 6.25 was the second best for any of Province’s bowlers on the day.

The Africa T20 cup should provide the platform for Emmanuel to the top professional ranks with the Cape Cobras. From there, anything is possible for the young player, whose remarkable story of resilience and determination once again underlines the way in which sport can make dreams come true. Emmanuel Sebareme made the South African Schools cricket team

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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Graham paull your attitude determines your altitude!

YOUR ATTITUDE

Stellenbosch University

DETERMINES

YOUR ALTITUDE!

Whenever an opportunity arises one should always grab it with both hands. Sometimes an opportunity comes knocking which changes our lives completely. 16

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


main Feature: paracanoeing

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Balint Vekassy / Gameplan Media

A talented rugby player, Graham Paull decided to move to the Limpopo Blue Bulls in 2013 after several years at the Sharks Academy, and unbeknown to him he had no idea just how much his life was going to change. Graham had just made the starting line-up and he decided to go out with a few friends to celebrate on a warm Friday evening in mid January. After a night of fun, Graham woke up to the realisation that he was having difficulty passing urine. By the next day he couldn’t urinate at all. His girlfriend rushed him to the hospital in Tzaneen. A multitude of tests were done and a catheter had to be inserted to help Graham pass urine. The tests showed nothing of importance. An orthopaedic surgeon who had heard of Graham’s case stopped by his bed to ask if he could try something. With a pillow over his head, Graham was asked in which direction his toes were pointing. To his frustration, he could not say. He was rushed off to do an MRI scan which revealed that he had a small spot on his spinal cord. A trip to Pretoria East hospital turned out to be fruitless and he was sent back to Tzaneen. The symptoms got progressively worse as Graham started losing his balance and the ability to use his legs. After he lost sensation in his torso it was decided that he start rehabilitation at Muelmed Mediclinic in Pretoria. He was finally diagnosed with transverse myelitis and was left a T10/12 paraplegic.

Graham not only had to adapt to the changes in his body but his work as well. An avid outdoorsman he owned a trout farm in Haenertsburg, Limpopo. He decided to move to Johannesburg because he felt life as a paraplegic would be easier to manage in the city. It proved to be a masterstroke, as it was in the City of Gold where he discovered canoeing. “It was tough to give up my life as I knew it. My house and my dogs were in Limpopo. I spent two months on the mountain after I left rehab just so I could think about my future. Eventually I decided that life would be easier in a city where I had access to medical care and more job opportunities. I worked for my uncle for the remainder of the year and then moved over to Bearing Man Group.”

Physiotherapist Melanie Skeen undertook the challenging task of getting Graham up to speed with his new life. Graham is adamant that if it was not for Melanie he would not have had the positive outlook on life that he now has.

My first night in rehab was not a great one. I was feeling really down. Melanie just walked in and said this is not how it is going to be. Tomorrow we are going to hit the gym. She is the person who instilled my positivespirit and taught me that life goes on. I owe her a lot,” explained Graham.

Watch the video on Paracanoeing

“To break the cycle of city life I did stretching with a friend at the practice she worked at. A colleague of hers asked if I was doing any sport. He suggested I try out canoeing.” Canoeing was just a hobby for Graham. Something to help him take his mind off the stresses of life. He had no idea that possible Paralympic qualification was less than a year away.

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Graham paull your attitude determines your altitude!

“I tried other disabled sports. Canoeing appealed to me the most because it meant I got to be out of my wheelchair for a few hours. I’m an avid fisherman so being on the water is something I enjoy.”

“Canoeing is still very much an amateur sport in South Africa. We don’t earn a living from it so we cannot train as much because of work commitments. Overseas the canoeists are backed by their countries and sponsors. They are able to train four or five times a day. They have access to quality coaches and support staff. There really is no comparison.”

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

“When I started canoeing I didn’t even think about competitions. Somebody said I should take part in the Gauteng Championships earlier this year. I only intensified my training two weeks before and I still managed to win it. Now that I competed in the World Championships people have seen my potential and the hard work has begun.” “I used to only train on the water. It was tough in the winter months as I could only train at night at Emmarentia Dam. I dressed liked an Eskimo as I struggle to keep warm. Now that my training is a bit more serious, I do gym work as well as different lengths of sprints and marathon canoeing.” Canoeing is a double edged sword for Graham as it is not always smooth sailing. Finances and professionalism are in short supply in South Africa but this is negated by theamiable nature shown to Graham by his competitors.


main Feature: paracanoeing

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Balint Vekassy / Gameplan Media

“Despite the ultra competitive nature of the athletes I compete with they are always willing to help me. They showed me their boats and the way they do things. It was incredible to have all these strangers helping me to find my feet.”

In Italy, we contested the decision and I was put in the appropriate category. Because of this I have to compete in one more qualifying race which will probably be at the African Championships.”

Graham has taken to canoeing like a ‘duck to water’, and although his career has only started, he is expected to go far. His dogged attitude and It was reported earlier this year that Graham zest for life has pulled him from had qualified for the Rio Paralympics. Although he did finish within the qualifying times he has a life of certain despair, and has not yet qualified for the global showpiece. potentially thrust him onto the “In Germany they allocated me to the KL2 biggest stage of all. Come 2016, category which is for double leg amputees. South Africa may have another Naturally I could not compete against athletes who could use their hips and parts of their legs. Paralympic medallist, and Graham is only prepared to be the athlete standing in Fast Facts the middle of the podium. “A huge down side of canoeing is the expenses. We get limited to no funding from the powers that be. I’m fortunate that a few people and companies contributed towards my expenses but I still had to raise an additional R25000 for my trip to Italy. It is crazy.”

Date of Birth: 22 May 1987 Place of Birth: Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal

School: Pretoria Boys’ High School Tertiary education: Aquaculture (Stellenbosch University)

Canoe make: Nelo

Pretoria Boys’ High School

What is Transverse Myelitis? Transverse myelitis (TM) is a rare inflammatory disease causing injury to the spinal cord with varying degrees of weakness, sensory alterations, and autonomic dysfunction (the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary activity, such as the heart, breathing, the digestive system, and reflexes).

To read more about TM click HERE

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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ifbb 2015 South African CHampionships

IFBB 2015 SOuth

african championships

“A well organized, successful event� were the comments from both athletes and spectators who came from across the country to attend and compete in the most prestigious event in South Africa, The IFBB South African Championships. This year, the show was held in the heart of Gauteng, at the five star Sandton Convention Centre, which raised the standardof the show to new heights. 395 athletes from all over South Africa represented their provinces in 42 different divisions, attracting over 3000 spectator over the two-day period.

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


main Feature: bodybuilding

Words: Helen Calitz | Photos: Provided

IFBB SA 2015 Beach Bikini Prejudging

The main sponsor for the event was Weider Nutrition who not only contributed greatly towards the finances for the show; they also included supplement samples for each athlete as well as a stall where athletes and spectators could relax on couches with cell phone charging stations. For the first time at any South African Fitness and Bodybuilding event, the athletes warm up area included a fully equipped gym, sponsored by Carlton Gym, ensuring that the athletes were pumped up and looking their best on stage. Nicole Acker, a legendary IFBB Pro Athlete,sponsored all the medals as well as the trophies. She specially travelled from the USA to attend the event and hand out trophies to selected divisions on stage. All competing athletes were in exceptional shape. Well-known names as well as several new comers to the bodybuilding scene battled it out and two panels of judges ensured that the judging was done at an exceptional standard. The IFBB SA lucky ball was thrown into the crowd at certain intervals throughout the show and cash prizes were awarded to audience members. The entire event was run smoothly, flawlessly, and the overall experience of the show was absolutely amazing.

Overall this was one of the best IFBB South African Championships that South Africa has seen. Well done to the entire team for hosting an exciting, unique event. This event was a great stepping stone to the Arnold Classic Sports Festival that will be hosted at the Sandton Convention Centre in 2016 where over 40 different sporting codes will be represented.

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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ifbb 2015 South African CHampionships

IFBB SA 2015 Men’s Overall Line-up

For the full results of the IFBB SA Championships

CLICK HERE For World Team Selection Lists

CLICK HERE The IFBB would like to express their gratitude to the following sponsors: Weider Nutrition – Main Sponsor

Nicole Acker - legendary IFBB Pro Athlete, sponsored all the medals as well as the trophies Carlton Gym who provided a fully equipped gym Designer Lighting North and Robertson Trifocus Fitness Academy Steyn, Strydom and Viljoen Attorneys Sandton Convention Centre Gearhouse Two Way Exhibitions Quality Bedding Mr Safe T Safety and Event Specialists

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


main Feature: bodybuilding

Words: Helen Calitz | Photos: Provided

IFBB SA CHampionship 2015 Winners Juniors under 23 (u75kg) Junior under 23 (o75kg) Junior Classic Bodybuilding Masters over 40 u75kg Masters over 40 o75kg Veterans over 50 Masters Overall Mens Athletic Physique >170cm Mens Athletic Physique >174cm Mens Athletic Physique >178cm Mens Athletic Physique <178cm Mens Athletic Physique Overall Classic Bodybuilding >168cm Classic Bodybuilding >171cm Classic Bodybuilding >175cm Classic Bodybuilding >180cm Classic Bodybuilding <180cm Classic Bodybuilding Overall Classic Bodybuilding Best Poser Men’s Fitness Men Bantamweight >65kg Men Lightweight >70kg Men Welterweight >75kg Men Light Middleweight >80kg Men Middleweight >85kg Men Light Heavyweight >90kg Men Middle Heavyweight >95kg Men Heavyweight >100kg Men Super Heavyweight <100kg Best Poser Men Overall Ladies Beach Bikini u163cm Ladies Beach Bikini o163cm Ladies Fitness Bikini o35 years Ladies Junior Fitness Bikini Ladies Physique up to 163cm Ladies Physique over 163cm Ladies Physique Overall Womens Fitness Ladies Fitness Bikini >160cm Ladies Fitness Bikini >163cm Ladies Fitness Bikini >166cm Ladies Fitness Bikini >169cm Ladies Fitness Bikini >172cm Ladies Fitness Bikini o172cm Ladies Fitness Bikini Overall Ladies Body Fitness >158cm Ladies Body Fitness >163cm Ladies Body Fitness >168cm Ladies Body Fitness o168cm Ladies Body Fitness Overall

Cedric Samuels Lendo Greyling Siphumelele Ntshebe Japie van Wyk Jacob Seate Jabulani Buthelezi Japie van Wyk Sarel Breedt Michael Carroll Jaco Nieman Wiehann van Wyk Wiehann van Wyk Pieter Janse van Rensburg Justin Thacker Bantu Kato Mavela Andre Fourie Foster Mkhabele Justin Thacker Zukiswa Hola Peter Lekoma Vuyo Vanda Morne van den Berg Julian Ramdhari Chris Pillay Johnny Lucas Johan Boshoff Louis Bessenger Earl Abrahams Shanti Mitchell Mohomed Chili Louis Bessenger Anesca Gouws Leana Viviers Jo-Anne van der Vlugt Alex-Maud van der Westhuizen Tiana Flex Tersia Benson Tiana Flex Camille du Plessis Shayna Atkinson Nicolene Booysen Zea Meyer Carmen Botha Cindy Royle Cassandre de Jager Carmen Botha Karen de Beer Michelle Guest Chantel Swart Marcelle Collison Karen de Beer

Kwa Zulu Natal Gauteng North OR Tambo Gauteng North Sedibeng Kwa Zulu Natal Gauteng North Kwa Zulu Natal Western Province Gauteng Central Western Province Western Province Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal Nelson Mandela Bay Western Province Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal OR Tambo North West OR Tambo Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal Kwa Zulu Natal Gauteng North Gauteng North Buffalo City Western Province Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal (L/H/W) Buffalo City Gauteng Central Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal North West Gauteng North Gauteng Central Gauteng North Kwa Zulu Natal Kwa Zulu Natal Western Province Gauteng Central Mpumalanga Kwa Zulu Natal Gauteng North Mpumalanga Kwa Zulu Natal Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal Gauteng Central Kwa Zulu Natal

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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Wayde Van Niekerk one of the world’s finest sprinters

one of the world’s finest sprinters It is a mark of his remarkable humility that newly crowned World Champion Wayde van Niekerk was a little embarrassed by all the furore his return to South Africa caused. Social media was abuzz with accusations of neglect on the part of the media, the sports minister and just about anyone who could be blamed, after the 400m star returned to very little fanfare.

Truth is, he actually preferred it that way. “To me, I just felt like a normal guy coming back home. I was just happy to be home again so I didn’t really expect anything because being back home was enough for me,” said Van Niekerk who ran the fourth fastest time in history on his way to taking gold at the World Athletics Championships in Beijing. “Afterwards I saw there was a whole media fight going on and I was a bit worried because I saw they were busy attacking the government and I was just trying to stay away from that.” “I was just grateful to be home to say hello to everyone – that was enough for me and I did have a bit of a reception when I got back to Bloem.

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main Feature: Athletics

Words: Karien Jonckheere | Photos: Provided

That alone made me quite nervous, so in a way I was quite grateful there wasn’t such a big hype. I just feel like the same old guy, but afterwards I heard that people weren’t too happy about it.”

grateful that things were going my way for once and I was just trying to use the momentum as best as possible,” he added, referring to injuryriddled seasons in 2012 and 2013.

It’s this modesty that makes Van Niekerk such a likeable World Champion – with none of thecharacteristic arrogance you’d expect from one of the world’s finest sprinters. And when it comes down to it, he’s been bombarded by media attention since his return to Bloemfontein anyway.

Speaking about the 400m final itself, Van Niekerk explained: “There was a lot of pressure in that race because no matter where you looked you’d see a world leader, a national record holder, a defending world champion, a defending Olympic champion – you name it and they were all there.

There was plenty of pressure on the University of the Free State marketing student going into the World Championships, having had a flawless season building up to that, dipping under 44 seconds for the first time and so emerging as one of the pre-race favourites. “I just tried to take it as it came. Every race had its own challenges and had its own obstacles that I had to go through and each time I actually did well, so it definitely played a huge role in my confidence,” explained the 23-year-old. “And to my surprise I was bettering my own personal best times as well every time I competed. So I was in a good place as an athlete and as a person at that moment. I was just

“I knew I had to put it all out there. So I decided to go on my knees and ask the Lord to take over – I said I’m leaving it all in his hands. “Within the first 100m I could feel that I was feeling quite good, quite comfortable in my race and that’s when I tried to open up and try and pull away as fast as possible and as strong as possible. “Definitely in the last bit I knew I had two strong athletes chasing me – which was most probably [Olympic champion] Kirani James and [defending world champion] LaShawn Merritt so I just tried to push myself to the finish line as best as possible. “I could feel in the last few metres I started tensing up a bit because I could see the gold medal but it was not yet confirmed so I was just trying to push through and thankfully I came over the finish line winning the gold.” With the phenomenal time of 43.48 seconds that he ran that day, it’s difficult to believe that Van Niekerk doesn’t actually like the 400m at all.

Wayde Van Niekerk took 43.48 seconds to win IAAF World Championship men’s 400m final at Beijing 2015

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Wayde Van Niekerk one of the world’s finest sprinters

Wayde Van Niekerk runs 19.94 Breaks SA 200m NR Luzern 2015

“I’m not a fan of the 400m. I’m trying to learn to love it,” he admitted. “I still feel like quitting after every single race. But this has been my God-given talent and my blessing and I just need to use it in the best way possible. “If only I could [just run 200m] because I have a big love for the 100 and 200 sprints but now the 400m is just taking over. I don’t think I’d leave the 200m any time soon though because that’s where it all started and that’s one of my favourite events.”

In fact, even further back than the sprints, Van Niekerk was a high jumper. He attended several schools as a youngster including Simonsberg Primary (where he was in the same rugby team as distant cousin Cheslin Kolbe), Bellville Primary, St Andrews in Bloemfontein, Midrand High School, and eventually Grey College in Bloem for his final two years.

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main Feature: Athletics

Words: Karien Jonckheere | Photos: Provided

The Cape Town-born athlete has plenty of praise for Grey. “It’s a very positive school – everyone always believed in you. When you tried something there was always someone to help you and give you time. The headmaster at that time was someone who would come to me and give me words of wisdom and he still stays in touch. It really became a family vibe when I was there. “They taught me a lot and helped develop my character as well. It was something that played a big role in who I am today as well.” Also playing a massive role is Van Niekerk’s family. “My family plays quite a huge role in motivating me because I’ve got quite a supportive family who are big in supporting whatever you do. They’ve really played a big role in me staying consistent and to keep chasing my dreams and I’m really grateful to them for keeping on believing in me and keeping pushing me forward,” he said. As for what’s coming next, with Rio 2016, and a shot at adding Olympic gold to his collection just 10 months away, Van Niekerk remains as grounded as ever.

“I’ve been told it’s way bigger than anything I’ve gone through at this moment so I’m trying to prepare myself for something bigger but at the same time I need to stay focused on why I’m doing it, what I’m doing and what I want. “

“I believe that it’s this person I am now that got me to where I am at this moment, and it’s the same person that’s going to get me to the next goal that I need to get to, so I’m just trying to stay as simple as possible.” “Knowing that there’s growth in me as an athlete every year – and even as a person is my main goal. I’m just grateful that I can improve from what I’ve done the previous years. That’s all I really want and now, knowing that I’ve done well at World Championships, and if growth comes towards next year as well then I believe I’ll do well in Rio, too.” “So all I want is that growth and then I’ll be more than happy. I believe everything that I have, everything that I’m going to do, and everything that I can still achieve – I’m leaving in the Lord’s hands and whatever comes my way, I’ll accept it.”

Exclusive interview with South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk

follow wayde on social media

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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mignon du preez SA’s Ladies Cricket Captain

Mignon du Preez SA’s Ladies Cricket Captain South Africa Women’s Cricket Captain, Mignon du Preez made her Proteas debut in 2007 when she was just 17 years old. She has since climbed to the pinnacle of women’s cricket. She started as a casual player before the age of five but she soon realised that cricket was her God-given talent and she would use it to University of honour Him. Pretoria

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Main Feature: Cricket

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Game On Magazine recently chatted to Mignon to find out a little more about one of the finest cricketers South Africa has ever produced. Full name: Mignon du Preez Date of Birth: 13 June 1989 Place of Birth: Pretoria High school: Hoërskool Zwartkop Tertiary education: BCom Marketing (Hons) – University of Pretoria Role: Top order batter and Captain Representative teams: Gauteng North Women’s, Momentum Proteas

Interview with Momentum Proteas Women captain Mignon du Preez

players could not manage to get to the field on time and I was asked to fill his spot. At the end of the day I was the best batter for the day and have played ever since. GOM: When did you realize you could represent South Africa? GOM: How did you get involved in cricket? MdP: I started by accident at the age of 4 via the Mini Cricket program. My older brother was playing mini cricket at that stage and my Dad was the coach of his team. One day, one of their

MdP: At the age of 13 I scored 258 not out in 96 balls. The media went crazy about this achievement and I think that is when I realized that I might be able to represent my country one day.

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mignon du preez SA’s Ladies Cricket Captain

GOM: Are you a full time athlete? How do you balance your time? MdP: I play cricket full time at the moment. I am still looking for an opportunity where I can utilize my marketing skills that would accommodate my cricket career too. I’ve learned the art of time management. GOM: Are you sponsored? MdP: My cricket equipment is sponsored by Norfolk Cricket Bat Co. with my own Minx22 Equipment Range (Minx is my nickname and 22 is the number on my Protea shirt). New Balance is my footwear and sports apparel sponsor while Just Eyewear (Nike Vision) is my eyewear sponsor. FUTURELIFE takes care of my nutrition needs and as of November Mazda Menlyn will be my vehicle sponsor. GOM: What does your training entail? MdP: We have a full-time trainer that provides us with a daily gym and/or conditioning program. On a daily basis I either do throw-downs where I spend time working on a specific batting skill, or I do a scenario specific net sessions, or I have live nets (where I get an opportunity to bat against bowlers). I recently started training with the TUKS’ elite men’s squad about three times a week to challenge myself and take my cricket to the next level.Twice a week I also do visual skills with Jolene Campher from Eyes@Peak where we focus on hand-eye coordination, training under fatigue and fielding. GOM: Do you follow a special diet? MdP: Not really. I just try and eat as healthy as possible but I have a very sweet tooth which I have to suppress. I use FUTURELIFE products daily. I love their Smart Oats GOM: What is your favourite cricketing memory?

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

MdP: Individually it was scoring my maiden century against India in my first test innings. In terms of a team achievement it has to be beating New Zealand in a must win group stage game to qualify for the semi finals of the ICC T20 World Cup (up until that moment we had never beaten New Zealand in a T20 before). GOM: What changes would you like to see in women’s cricket in South Africa? MdP: I would like Women’s Cricket to become fully professional with thousands of young girls taking up the sport. GOM: Is funding an issue for women’s cricket in South Africa, if so why? MdP: We are very fortunate to have Momentum as our main Sponsor at the moment. However, there is always room for extra funding initiatives to continue to help CSA develop women’s cricket at grass-root level and to continue to work towards fully professionalizing women’s cricket in SA. GOM: Who is your support base? MdP: I am very fortunate to have a very strong support base and we are very family orientated. My main support base consist of my parents, my fiance (Tony), my brother and sister and their spouses, my grandparents and close friends. GOM: Who do you look up to? MdP: My parents. GOM: What are your cricket aspirations?

MdP: I’d like to be the first Women’s World Cup winning captain and go on to become the best female cricketer in the world. I’d also like to win CSA’s Women’s Cricketer of the Year award again. GOM: If you could say anything to an aspiring cricketer, what would it be? MdP: If your dream does not scare you, it isn’t big enough.


Main Feature: Cricket

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

Mignon du Preez SA’s Ladies

Cricket Captain More about Mignon: GOM: Favourite book? MdP: Message of Hope and the Bible. GOM: Favourite quote? MdP: ‘Your Talent is God’s gift to you, what you do with it is your gift back to God’ GOM: What do you do when you’re not on the cricket pitch? MdP: I love spending quality time with my family and fiancé. GOM: Your thoughts on the Springboks chances at the Rugby World Cup? MdP: They have done it before, they can do it again! Let’s Go Bokke!

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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RICHARD MURRAY ”Farmboy by heart, racer by nature”

“Farmboy by heart, racer by nature” Richard Murray sums himself up pretty well in his succinct Twitter profile: Farmboy by heart, racer by nature. It’s outdoors where he’s most comfortable, and he’s been racing to new heights this year. Just under one year out from the Rio Olympics, the 26-year-old triathlete couldn’t be in a better space than he is right now.

With qualification for the Games in the bag, a thirdplace finish at the recent season final, and the highest place he’s achieved in the World Series to date, things are very much on track.

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Main Feature: triathlon

Words: Karien Jonckheere | Photos: Wagner Araujo & Delly Carr

Richard Murray with the Joel Filliol Training Crew

Nevertheless, there’s still plenty to be done to keep the momentum going so that when he dives in for the start of the swimming leg in Rio, 10 months from now, he’s as ready as he could ever be. “This year three WTS [World Triathlon Series] podiums, Olympic qualification and ending fourth in the World Series - my highest finish ever - means it has been my most successful season to date,” said a satisfied Murray afterracing in Chicago a few weeks ago.“I’m very happy with my planning and season. “Chicago was an ending to a season I have been looking for for years. After ending last season 52nd in the grand finale, being capable of a strong finish to my WTS season this year was just an amazing positive feeling.”

“I believed I could do it and just needed to keep working. Good things are worth waiting for they say,” added Murray. While the official WTS circuit is finished, the Durbanville triathlete will race twice more this season, in Mexico and the Bahamas, before taking a break and putting some thought into the season ahead, leading up to the big one, the Rio Olympics. “My planning and recovery is one area I can still improve on. Nutrition, altitude and which races I pick will be a big influencer on my pre-season racing leading up to Rio 2016, but I have plenty of time to plan this in the off season.” Richard has raced at the Olympic Games before, finishing in 17th spot in London in 2012, but this time, he knows he’s capable of a podium finish.

The former World Junior Duathlon champion booked his ticket to Brazil with a third-place finish at the Rio test event in August, so the course will certainly have a familiar feel when he returns next year.

“I was not planning on racing the test event but due to receiving financial support, which I had very little of, I was finally given the go ahead and then I decided around two months before the event to go and race. My form was very good in the Rio test event, but hopefully there’s more to come in 2016.”

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RICHARD MURRAY ”Farmboy by heart, racer by nature”

Speaking about the Rio course, where some have questioned the quality of the water, Murray reckoned: “There were challenging conditions as usual. It was not too hot but the humidity made cooling off harder than usual. I liked the course and the water was no big deal really. No

one got sick as far as I know, which means it must have been fine.” As for what he plans to do differently to London when the Games roll around again, Murray said: “I can’t tell all my tricks of the trade! But better quality training

and conditions and putting myself in the right places is vital though.” It’s his absolute passion not only for the sport, but the healthy lifestyle that goes along with it, that keeps him going through the hours of gruelling swimming, cycling and running training.

Top Billing rides with triathlete Richard Murray

“It’s being able to be healthy, fit and strong and get out and train every day. It’s a simple formula. I love what I do, and doing well is the icing on my cake,” he explained.

“My ultimate goal is to always be investing in myself and to always be progressing in whatever I do. An Olympic medal is what I’m capable of and come Rio 2016, I will always give it everything I have.”

“I just love to race and to be part of it. I’m a lucky man really. I love being an inspiration and influencer to many back home in South Africa and abroad. I love what I do, work hard at it every day, and living a lifestyle less ordinary is what I love.

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Main Feature: triathlon

Words: Karien Jonckheere | Photos: Wagner Araujo & Delly Carr

ABOUT RICHARD MURRAY Farm Boy Endorphin Junkie Solar Powered HateS Tomatoes In search of 3 World Titles Year of Birth: 1989 Place of Birth: South Africa Weight: 70kg Height: 1.8m Lives In: South Africa Website: http://www.trimurray.com/ WTS Ranking: 4 4317pts ITU Points List: 4 6008.00pts Sponsors: Red Bull, Specialized, Huub, Oakley, Puma Language: English Tri Entry Year: 2009 Other Sports: Duathlon Moutainbiking Cross country Education: Matriculated 2007 ETA Sports Diploma in Sports Conditioning & Fitness Hobbies: Golf, reading, outdoors, socializing Sports Hero: T Don Macca, J Gomez Proudest Moment: World Junior Duathlon Champion 07/08, 2nd Place WTS Sydney 2012, 1st Place WTS Hamburg 2012 Athlete Coach: Joel Filliol

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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team sa fly the SA flag high at ICF Marathon World Champs 2015

fly the SA flag high at ICF Marathon

World Champs 2015

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Main Feature: canoeing

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Balint Vekassy

Hank McGregor flew the South African flag high when he claimed gold at the ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships in Gyรถr, Hungary from 11-13 September 2015. McGregor won the K1 Men Senior 30km race in a time of 2:02:06.732. He also won a silver medal with partner Jasper Mocke in the K2 Men Senior 30km. Hank McGregor - K1M Canoe Marathon World Champion

Hank McGregor - the Making of a legend

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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team sa fly the SA flag high at ICF Marathon World Champs 2015

HANK MCGREGOR PODCAST In the ladies U/23 K1 22,2km race, Jenna Ward excelled and took bronze for South Africa.“There were so many times when I just wanted to stop,” laughed a relieved Ward

afterwards. “That was one of the hardest races I’ve ever had to race but it’s not over until the end and I knew I had to keep fighting right until the finish!”

JENNA WARD PODCAST

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Main Feature: canoeing

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Balint Vekassy

In the Junior ladies, 16 yearold Kyeta Purchase who was experiencing her first international canoeing outing, claimed a remarkable fourth place in the K1 Junior Girls race. “I’ve only been paddling for a year or so and this is the first

time in competing in a paddling event in Europe so while I would have liked to have better, I still had a good race,” said Purchase. at the 2015 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships in Győr, Hungary

KYETA PURCHASE PODCAST

Team South Africa finished third on the overall medal table behind Spain (6) and Hungary (27). South Africa are now fourth on the Nations Cups rankings.

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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parktown boys’ high gives rugby an overhaul

parktown boys’ high

gives rugby

an overhaul

School sport is a vital component of a child’s development. It is also the backbone of a nation’s sporting strength. A good school system trickles up to the national team and provides an arena for young athletes to grow within a safe and productive environment. Parktown Boys’ High School

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youth Feature: rugby

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

The biggest problem schools face is that they cannot have a long term development plan as every year a new batch of learners arrive. Some years produce better athletes while other years [or several years] are lean in terms of results.

rounded young men they had to do something. The turn of the millennium proved to be a difficult change for the proud school. Sports results, most notably rugby, took a dive and Parktown became an easy fixture for many of their opponents.

press had a field day and our name was seriously damaged but because the Department of Education silenced us the facts were never made public,” explained Parktown Boys’ Director of Sport, Remo Murabito.

One would be delusional to think that sport plays no part in the selection of a school by parents for their children to attend as sport is tangible evidence of a school’s success. It is no wonder that schools like Grey College and Paul Roos Gimnasium have waiting lists that would make any parent faint.

The decision to improve rugby was not only results driven but an initiative by the school to rebuild its image after an initiation incident went public.

“The case dragged on for a number of years and our intake was affected for about three years. In fact, the leaving group of 2014 was a particularly poor group across the board. They were the first intake after the incident.”

Parktown Boys’ High School in Johannesburg realised that in order to improve their chances of attracting not only quality sportsmen but well

“An initiation activity undertaken by Matrics and performed on Grade 11 learners as a rite of passage ritualoccurred in the boarding house, unbeknown to teachers and parents. The school suspended the boys pending a disciplinary hearing but it didn’t prevent a parent from laying charges. The

“We decided to use rugby as the vehicle to rebuild Parktown Boys’public image. Using rugby was a no-brainer as it is the highest profile school sport in South Africa and a powerful marketing tool.”

The school implemented a two step process of recruitment and the correct coaching of players and coachesalike. Although the plan was sound on paper it was difficult to get it off the ground in the beginning.

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parktown boys’ high gives rugby an overhaul

“About five years ago we started a recruitment drive for the Under 14 age group. It was difficult to attract players because we were not winning at the top but nonetheless we started to get the learners

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

we were looking for. We offer three full scholarships or six half scholarships for talented young rugby players.” Concerns have been raised by the public regarding the

recruitment methods used by schools as well as the awarding of scholarships. Parktown Boys has a strict policy in terms of recruitment and scholarships.


youth Feature: rugby

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

“We actively recruit at U/14 only. We want to build the team fromgrass rootlevel up. Because we have a limited budget in terms of scholarships we have identified other means of attracting players. Old Boy, Zac van Heerden, conducts free physical assessments for primary school learners before they have even thought about which high school they would like to attend. These assessments help to foster a relationship between the school, learner and parents.”

“If we are thin in a certain position such as prop we will look outside of the school up to Under-16. It becomes a question of player welfare as it would be irresponsible to put

a player who hasn’t had the correct training into the front row.” “An issue we need to address is the lack of sufficient boarding accommodation. We have enough space for 70 learners which means by the economy of scales our boarding is expensive. It is a logistical nightmare for talented sportsmen who live far from the school to attend Parktown. We have lost boys to the likes of King Edwards and Jeppe purely because we cannot offer free boarding.”

“Our scholarships are performance-based, but it does not mean a boy loses his funding if seriously injured or if heloses his form. These are things that can occur to the best athletes so it would be unfair. Assuming the player is fit he needs to maintain his place in the A team and uphold the ethos of the school. If he loses his place he is given a warning and a season to regain his position.” The school decided to bring in Bafana Nhleko, Golden Lions Under-19 coach, as a consultant to assist 1st XV coach Andrew van Zyl. He set about improving the quality of coaching and implementing a game plan that is used throughout all age groups.Jem van Vuren was headhunted by the school and brought

across from Weltevreden Primary School. His ties to Pirates junior rugby and years spent at primary school level gave the school another leg to stand on in terms of building relationships with prospective learners. “It is all good and well bringing the players in but it is what we were going to do with them that would make the difference. We focused on developing our skill levels across all age groups and started utilising a conditioning programme.” “We targeted 2015 as the year in which the curve would swing upwards and we’ve had a good season. We managed to get a few big wins so it would appear that our structures are working.”

Parktown Boys High School had a stellar season this year having beaten the likes of St. Stithians, Pretoria Boys and KES. Narrow defeats against Maritzburg College and Jeppe Boys are an indication that the systems are in fact working. Only time will tell if the once mighty Parktown will regain its place amongst schoolboy rugby’s elites and with the current structures in place there is no reason for them not to.

Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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western cape soccer clubs what are the options

western cape soccer clubs

what are the

options? The Western Cape has long been considered the breeding ground for top South African football talent. But now, more than ever before, has the landscape become ultracompetitive at youth development level. Is it over populated on ground level? Think of the names Benni McCarthy, Quinton Fortune, Shaun Bartlett, Andre Arendse, Dean Furman, Anele Ngcongca. The Western Cape has produced the most successful exported football players than any other part of South Africa. The fact is that just McCarthy, Fortune and Bartlett represent a major part of South Africa’s success story in the top levels of European football. But in recent years professional football in the Western Cape has dwindled and currently only Ajax Cape Town campaign in the Absa Premiership while the National First Division is littered with teams from the Mother City.

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While there is an imbalance in terms of clubs plying their trade in the top-flight of South African professional football, there is still a truckload of talent in the region where several battles are taking place at youth level. Teenage footballers across the region can look in any direction and find a development set up at their fingertips, but the question is which way is the best direction to take?

Game On takes a look at the options available to young footballers and their parents who have to make careful choices in the years to come.


youth Feature: soccer

Words: Neil Greig - Backpage Media | Photos: Provided

The Pedigree Horse: Ajax Cape Town Ajax Cape Town was formed in October 1998 through the merger of two well established Cape Town clubs in Seven Stars Football Club and Cape Town Spurs Football Club. The club plays in South Africa’s top division and have a proven history in terms of developing young talent and sending the best of them to clubs in Europe, such as Steven Pienaar, Daylon Claasen and Thulani Serero. Strengths: -Ajax Amsterdam own 51% shares in the Cape Town club meaning young players get Dutch coaching expertise and a direct line to Holland for trials and training opportunities. -A Chance to play first team football in the PSL.

Weaknesses: -Do not necessarily have the edge in terms of high quality youth coaches as in the past. Playing field amongst competitors has levelled in this area. -Ajax only look for a specific type of player, as per the Ajax Amsterdam scouting policy, which does isolate some young talent. How do I get in? -The club’s scouting network stretches far and wide and scouts can be seen at most youth football hot spots. -The club host periods of open trials on specified dates. Call the club offices to find out more (021) 930 6001.

-A proven youth development set up that is regarded as the benchmark across the whole of South Africa.

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western cape soccer clubs what are the options

Changing of the guard: Vasco da Gama Vasco da Gama was formed as an amateur club in 1980 and enjoyed much success in the amateur ranks, nurturing the likes of Andre Arendse, Carlos das Neves and Shaun Bartlett. In recent times they have mostly campaigned in South Africa’s National First Division and their highest league achievement came at the end of the 2009/2010 season when Vasco secured promotion to the Premier Soccer League, but they were relegated the next season back to the NFD. In 2014 businessman Mario Ferreira, who is also on the board of Portugal side Vitória de Guimarães, bought a major stake in the club and the youth sector of Vasco da Gama began making some major shifts. Currently, Vasco are aiming to position themselves as the first choice club for young footballers in the Western Cape. Strengths: -The link to Vitória de Guimarães gives young players a channel to Europe and allows Vasco to draw on

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knowledge and experience from their European partners. -A well-established youth set-up that has already begun the process of making it more professional and attractive. Weaknesses: -The club is still regarded as an amateur club, or community club and until Vasco is properly rebranded as a serious destination club, players are likely to still look towards the likes of Ajax Cape Town. How do I get in? -The club has improved its scouting intelligence network and recent first team signings like Botswana international striker, Omaatla Kebatho, have proven this. -The club host periods of open trials on specified dates. Call the club offices to find out more (021) 952 4782 or info@vasco.co.za.


youth Feature: soccer

Words: Neil Greig - Backpage Media | Photos: Provided

A clean slate: FC Cape Town FC Cape Town campaign in the National First Division and owner, Errol Dicks, is the longest serving chairman of any NFD club and has, over the years, brought through some exciting talent such as Nigerian international Emmanuel Emenike – who now plays in Europe – as well as Prince Nxumalo, now with Ajax Cape Town.

the Elite Academy plans are major steps for any NFD club to make.

Dicks has joined forces with John Comitis, former CEO of Ajax Cape Town, and the fruit has been a sponsorship deal with Investec, which has given the club an exciting new focus. For example, the Investec DreamPlay programme will provide training, expertise and opportunity to develop potential young stars and the best players will become part of the Investec Elite Academy.

Weaknesses:

Strengths: -John Comitis’ football knowledge, contacts in the industry and experience gained from being a founding CEO of Ajax Cape Town adds real value to FC Cape Town’s cause. -Investec’s backing provides some serious sponsorship clout and the DreamPlay and

-Having their training base a few hundred metres away from Vasco da Gama’s base as well as Ajax Cape Town means they will always be seen as the third club in the area, unless they can re-position themselves effectively, both geographically and as a brand. How do I get in? -FC Cape Town will hold regular trial periods and with Craig Rosslee as the Technical Director, the scouting team will operate at full title. -Also contact the club at (021) 558 1596.

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western cape soccer clubs what are the options

The calculated approach: Stellenbosch University Strengths:

Known for their tremendous success in most sporting codes, especially rugby and athletics, the University of Stellenbosch chose a slower approach to build up their soccer footprint by investing mostly at junior level in the Winelands region. With a link to Dutch top-flight club PEC Zwolle for technical assistance, as well as to Pretoria Absa Premiership club, SuperSport United, ‘Maties Football’ has begun to make strides. The football team is still in the SAB League (South Africa’s fourth tier), but it is across the junior teams and within the Local Football Associations (LFA’s) in the greater Winelands region where a lot of the development work has been done in recent years. The ambition is for Stellenbosch University to work its way up through the ranks and finally into the Premier Soccer League of South Africa.

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-Good technical partners in PEC Zwolle and SuperSport United add value. -A well-established University set up available to the football project that adds intelligence on all fronts, from administration to senior management. -Access to talent in a largely untapped Cape Winelands region. Weaknesses: -Not known for a soccer culture, the University of Stellenbosch is still finding its way in the local football scene. The slow, measured approach could be a strength long term, but may see them lose some battles in the present. How do I get in? -There is a strong scouting network in place, but it would also be good to contact Maties Football (021) 808 3826 or info@innovus.co.za.


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houston brothers take aim at ‘Blood River’ MICHAELHOUSE EXPLORE. EDUCATE.EXCEL.

houston brothers

take aim at

“Blood river” Brothers Andrew and Alan Houston will bleed for each other as they go in search of their maiden Hansa Fish River Canoe Marathon victory.

MICHAELHOUSE EXPLORE. EDUCATE.EXCEL.

Michaelhouse School

The race is one of South Africa’s biggest multi-day river canoeing events, taking place over two days and is set in Cradock in the Eastern Cape from 9-10 October. From its position as one of the biggest canoeing races in the country, and one of the most popular river marathons worldwide, the ‘Fish’ (as it is commonly known) has grown phenomenally from its humble beginnings in 1982 and now the Houston brothers are looking to leave their mark. Andrew is currently studying at Stellenbosch University while his brother is still a schoolboy at Michaelhouse. Nonetheless, the pair come into the race high on confidence after an excellent showing in the recent concluded Breede River Canoe Marathon which saw them finish fifth overall in the twoday 75km race and claiming the U/23 title.

University of Stellenbosch

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


youth Feature: canoeing

Words: Brian Lee | Photos: Kassie Karstens/Gameplan Media

Alan Houston is a fine canoer on his own having won the Dusi K1 Junior title earlier this year, but he has competed to working hard and bleeding for his brother as they go in search of K2 glory together.

Hansa Fish Canoe Marathon 2015

“We have committed to doing the K2 Dusi together,” said Alan. “It makes so much sense to paddle together. We will both be at home together and then next year we will both be in Stellies together, making training together really easy. Besides, I am really enjoying paddling with my older brother! He is good fun and so strong in the back of the boat.”

“Initially we agreed to let me drive the boat to keep his weight and power in the back, and if that didn’t work out on the Breede we were going to swop. But it seemed to work really well and he trusts me in the front, which is nice. Generally we make decision together and so far he hasn’t had to chirp me on my driving or my tactics, but I am sure that when that time comes he won’t hesitate to throw a few polite tips my way.” “The Fish is always fun and we want to enjoy it and make sure it is clean and smooth for us. It looks like it is going to be really competitive so the racing will be pretty intense at the front.”

Hansa Fish Canoe Marathon 2015 Links

Alan (front) and Andrew Houston in action during the recent Breede River Canoe Marathon

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donovan du randt rugby player to watch

Rugby Player to Watch

donovan du randt

Glenwood High School

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youth Feature: rugby

Words: Neil Greig - Backpage Media | Photos: Provided

Although there is plenty of talent throughout the SA 7’s Rugby Squad who recently won gold at the 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games, one player to keep an eye on in the future is Glenwood High School rugby player Donovan du Randt. The Pongola-born flier attended Truida Kestell Primary in Bethlehem, Free State, before making the move to Durban where his game has excelled. Glenwood Director of Rugby Rudi Dames is excited to see what Du Randt can achieve in the future: “Well, just from my side, he is a very exciting young player, he might not be the biggest player, so sevens might be the way forward for him. “He is an explosive player with the ball in hand and pound for pound a superb defender,” Rudi said. “Long term, maybe sevens is the way to go for him. At Glenwood we are really proud of him and what he has achieved. He has worked very hard on his game in sevens and in fifteens - we are very excited to see what he can achieve in the future.”

The Grade 12 pupil has thanked the school for their contribution in helping him achieve the feat. “The school has contributed a lot towards this as they have an amazing program running in the school. Derick, our conditioning coach, is keeping us very fit and helping with my speed and power, where Mister Dames and Mike helped with the skill and contact fitness throughout the year.

“My favourite 15 man player is Cheslin Kolbe that plays for Province. I like him because of his step and being quick off the mark, he is always the smallest player with the biggest heart.”

“We trained twice a day where we had gym in the morning and field sessions in the afternoon.” While he would like to play for the Sharks, Donovan, like his school coach Rudi Dames, believes his future lies in sevens and intends on focusing on rugby after school before turning his attention to the books.

“Well I want to play sevens after school but I would love to play for the Sharks one day when the sevens have a break, but they are not that interested because of my size. I’m going to be focused on rugby and then study later on during my career.” He hopes to emulate what has been achieved by Blitzbokke pair Seabelo Senatla and Cheslin Kolbe. “My favourite sevens player will always be Seabelo Senatla as he always had that electrifying pace to get around any of his opposition,” Donovan added.

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copa coca cola unites teenagers through 11 moves for unity

Copa coca cola

unites teenagers through 11 moves

for unity Spanning across 5 days, 67 talented teenagers from 7 African nations united around the game of soccer at the Copa SABU camp in Tshwane. In mid-September Pretoria hosted a week of football at the Copa SABU camp as young footballers of different age, nationality, language, culture and background got an opportunity to celebrate their common interest, their love for the game of soccer.

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youth Feature: soccer

Words: Neil Greig - Backpage Media | Photos: Provided

The Copa SABU camp is the culmination of the greater Copa Coca-Cola initiative, which is the world’s biggest grassroots soccer program. It unites over one million teenagers in over 60 countries. This is how the players got to the camp hosted at the High Performance Centre in Pretoria. Each team at the camp earned its right to be there by winning its respective country’s 2015 Copa CocaCola tournament. Players from South Africa, Malawi, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lesotho and Swaziland came together on South African soil to make new friends, embrace diversity and very importantly have some fun! The players got the chance to show off their soccer tricks, receive quality coaching, take a trip to Soccer City and play in a round-robin tournament. The teenagers were also visited by renowned ex-Bafana Bafana coach Clive Barker and his captain during the golden era of Bafana Bafana, Lucas Radebe. Clive and Lucas took part in the boot swap event, an ice-breaker which saw each boy receive a shoebox with either two left or two right soccer boots. They were then tasked to find the boy with the matching pair, team up and create a slick soccer move.

Despite language barriers, age differences and cultural gaps, these boys showcased an array of talented tricks, united in their love of the game. Under the guidance of Lucas and Clive, the best eleven were then filmed and documented as the “11 Moves for Unity”. “The Copa SABU camp is more than a week of football. It’s an opportunity for these teens to pursue their football dream, and in the process, come together to make new friends and learn what it takes to be part of a diverse team” says Malefetsane Mbele, Senior Communications Manager of Brand Experience at Coca-Cola South Africa. “At the end of the day, we are more alike than we think and it’s our shared passion for football that allows the sport to transcend all cultural, language and race barriers.”

WATCH THE VIDEO

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Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015


Sports News: badminton

Words: Chris Dednam, National Chief Coach, Badminton South Africa | Photo: Provided

Badminton SA brings home 3 gold and 3 silver from 2015 African Games

badminton sa

Contributed by Chris Dednam, National Chief Coach, Badminton South Africa Badminton, as part of Team SA for the 2015 African Games in Brazzaville, Congo, topped the badminton medal table with 3 gold and 3 silver. This year’s All Africa Games are considered Africa’s Continental Championships and carries world ranking points. In the team event, which is seen as the most prestigious, SA lost to Mauritius in the final unexpectedly to win silver. The team were very disappointed as the goal was to win gold. Mauritius also took out Nigeria in the semi-finals on road to winning the African Team event again after 15 years. Earlier, in the quarter-finals, South Africa beat Uganda 3-1, Seychelles beat Algeria 3-1; Mauritius beat Ghana 3-1 and Nigeria beat Egypt 3-1. In the semi-finals, South Africa blanked Seychelles 3-0 and Mauritius did the same to Nigeria. In the African Individual events the men performed to expectations. Jacob Maliekal won gold in the mens singles and Prakash Vijayanath won silver. The mens doubles duo of Wiaan Viljoen and Andries Malan won gold and Andries Malan also won gold in the mixed

doubles with partner Jennifer Fry. Wiaan Viljoen and Michelle Butler-Emmett won the silver in the mixed doubles.

SPORTS NEWS

Although these were good results there is still a lot of work to be done, especially for the 3 Olympic hopefuls, Jacob Maliekal (singles) and Wiaan Viljoen & Andries Malan (doubles). SASCOC will decide in October regarding continuous support in the Olympic Qualification. They qualify for Olympics on the world rankings of May 2016 and need to be the highest Africans on the world ranking, as well as be top 100 in singles and top 50 in doubles. The ranking after the African Games for Jacob Maliekal was 90 (130 before the Games) and for the doubles duo it was 70 (89 before the Games). Jacob Maliekal also won the Kampala International tournament in Uganda during September 2015 earning him good ranking points.

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Kyro Brower Cele shows off his skills in Serbia!

Cele shows off his skills in Serbia! Contributed by Kyro Brower

17 year old, Brian Cele from Durban High School recently returned from an invitational basketball tournament in Serbia which saw players honing various ball skills and tactics.

durban high school

SPORTS NEWS

Cele formed part of the invitational U/18 basketball side and whilst learning new skills during the tournament, he was selected as Most Valuable Player overall. In the future, Cele hopes to take his love for basketball further and hopes to represent the national team at the Commonwealth games.

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Sports News: golf

Words: Waterkloof High School | Photo: Provided

30 September 2015: Hoërskool Waterkloof’s talented golfers, Eric Nel, Estiaan Conradie, Dylan Kok and JP Cooperwon the Gauteng North High Schools A League trouncing Tuks Sports School. They have also won the South African High School Golf Championships at the Irene Country Club in August. This latest triumph makes it their sixth consecutive win for the season. Eric Nel played a 68, Estiaan Conradie a 70 and Dylan Kok contributed 72 points to the team’s overall total of 210 and the team’s victory of six under par. Christine Hare, the team’s manager, expressed her excitement and pride with the players’ performance, “the team

won the Pecanwood College Golf Championships, the Woodlands Junior Masters, the Gauteng North Chairman’s Trophy and the Gauteng North Team Qualifier. To win the South African Golf Championships for High Schools is a dream come true”. All four young men have played together from Grade 8 and it was their objective to better the school’s 2012 winners’ performance, in which Estiaan and Dylan’s brothers (Ruan Conradie and Aubrey Kok) were part of the 2012 winning team.

‘off’ day, he knows that he can fully rely on the rest of the team to carry him. It is this commitment that stood them in good stead during the season and helped them to achieve their biggest goal yet”, shared Christine. An example of this camaraderie is when JC Cooper had a brilliant first round during the South African Golf Championships for High Schools, but battled a little during the last round, Eric Conradie came to his rescue by playing an unbelievable 29 in the last 9 holes.

“I am convinced that the boys’ success on the golf course depends largely on their commitment to each other. When one player has an

All four the first team players were chosen for in the Gauteng North High Schools’ IPT team.

Team Klofies win SA High School Golf Championships Hoërskool Waterkloof

Contributed by Waterkloof High School Individual achievements during the year include JP Cooper • Team captain and three times member of the South African National golf team against China, France and Scotland. • Winner of the Gauteng North High Schools’ Championships. • Member and captain of the Gauteng North High Schools’ IPT team. • Member of the under 23 Gauteng North team.

• Runner up in the South African Boys’ under 19 putting competition. • Member of the Gauteng North Golf Association under 19 team Estiaan Conradie • Member of the Gauteng North High Schools’ IPT team. • Member of the South African Golf Association team.

• Member of the Gauteng North Golf Association under 19 team. Eric Nel • Member of the Gauteng North High Schools’ IPT team • Member of the Gauteng North Golf Association under 19 team Dylan Kok • Member of the Gauteng North High Schools’ IPT team

• Third place at the South African Boys’ under 19 Championship.

• Member of the Gauteng North Challenge Cup team.

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Brian lee 5 DHS Boys make U/16 SA Rugby Team

Former professional rugby player Scott Mathie is working wonders in the rugby department at Durban High School (DHS) after five of their boys were selected to take part in the South African Rugby Union (SARU) under 16 training camp in Paarl in October. The five boys selected to attend the training camp from DHS consisted of three forwards and two backs in the form of

Kamvelihle Fatyela, Sean Barnes (both loose forwards), Phendulani Buthelezi (lock), Sanele Nohamba (scrumhalf), and Cham Zondeki (Full-back). Former professional and current Rugby Coordinator at DHS, Mathie, believes they have built a foundation at the school which allows the players to excel at the highest level and the selection of these five players is only the tip of the iceberg for future success. “We have put in some hard work into creating a high performance environment for our rugby players and these boys are starting to see the benefits of this programme.”

explained Mathie. “We are only at the beginning of this process which makes me excited for the future of DHS rugby. We are constantly working on new ideas and are striving to make DHS the best environment for a young man to maximise his potential both on and off the sports field.”

“This is a massive achievement for the boys and for the school to have five boys selected in this Elite squad. There are only eight boys representing KZN, so we are very proud of them.”

5 DHS Boys make U/16 SA Rugby Team Contributed by Brian Lee | Photos: Barry Coskey

durban high school

Scott Mathie, Kamvelihle Fatyela, Phendulani Buthelezi, Sanele Nohamba, Sean Barnes, Cham Zondeki, Tonderai Chavhanga (Sharks winger)

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Sports News: rugby

Words: Brian Lee | Photos: Barry Coskey

The training camp will provide skills and development training across a broad range of categories including that of medical and dietary assessments; conditioning assessments and coaching; fundamental and positional rugby skills assessments and coaching; training and education on relevant rugby topics.

Who is Scott Mathie? Mathie (born 1 February 1983 in Durban) is a former rugby union player that played as a scrumhalf in his professional career before retiring in October 2013 at the age of 30. He has since

turned his attention to shaping young rugby minds as the Rugby Coordinator at Durban High School. In his professional playing career he turned out for the Blue Bulls (2004),

Sharks (2006-2008), Leeds Carnnegie (in England from 2008-2011), Sale Sharks (also in England from 2011-2012) and finally for Eastern Province Kings (2013).

durban high school war cry Game On Magazine, October: Issue 21, 2015

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Dan lombard Pretoria Boys win St. David’s T20 festival

Pretoria Boys’ High School won all four of their matches and were crowned Champions of the St. David’s T20 festival in Johannesburg from 4-6 September. Despite rain interfering on Day 2 with all matches cancelled, Pretoria Boys were in blistering form as they beat Rondebosch Boys’ High School (by 6 wickets), Grey College (by 7 wickets), Maritzburg College (by 5 wickets) and Kent Park Taverners XI (by 9 wickets).

SPORTS NEWS

King Edward’s School, Affies, Jeppe, St. Albans, St. Andrews Bloemfontein, St. Charles and St. Stithians also competed at the annual festival. A very mentionable performance in bowling was Craig Meier (St. Stithians), took 7 wickets for 14 runs, including a hat trick.

Pretoria Boys win St. David’s T20 festival Contributed by Dan Lombard | Photos: Provided

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Pretoria Boys’ high school


Sports News: Commonwealth youth games

Words: Dan Lombard | Photos: SASCOC

Team SA return from Commonwealth Youth Games with 13 golds Contributed by Dan Lombard Photos: SASCOC

Gold Athletics: 100m Men - TlotlisoLeotlela 100m Hurdles Women - TaylonBieldt 110m Hurdles Men - MphoTladi 200m Men - TlotlisoLeotlela Discus Throw Men - Werner Visser Long Jump Women - Renate van Tonder Swimming: 4x100m Medley Relay Men 4x50m Medley Relay Mixed 50m Backstroke Men - Zane Waddell 50m Butterfly Men - Zane Waddell 50m Butterfly Women - Erin Gallagher 50m Freestyle Men - Zane Waddell

Silver Athletics: Shot Put Men - Werner Visser Swimming: 100m Breaststroke Women - Kaylene Corbett 100m Freestyle Women - Erin Gallagher 200m Backstroke Women - Nathania van Niekerk 50m Breaststroke Men - James Isemonger 50m Breaststroke Women - Kaylene Corbett 50m Freestyle Women - Erin Gallagher

The South African team that participated at the fifth Commonwealth Youth Games in Apia, Samoa returned home with 13 gold medals. The Youth Games were contested by 926 athletes from 40 nations. The athletes aged between 14-18 competed in nine sporting codes namely aquatics (swimming), athletics, archery, boxing, lawn bowls, rugby sevens, squash, tennis and weightlifting. In addition to the 13 gold medals, South Africa won seven silver and 15 bronze medals to finish second on the overall medal tally.

Bronze Athletics: 200m Men - Kyle Appel Discuss Throw Men - Burger Lambrechts Shot Put Men - Burger Lambrechts Swimming: 100m Backstroke Women - Nathania van Niekerk 100m Breaststroke Men - James Isemonger 100m Butterfly Men - Brendan Levy 200m Backstroke Men - Neil Fair 200m Breaststroke Men - James Isemonger 200m Breaststroke Women - Kaylene Corbett 200m Butterfly Men - Neil Fair 200m Individual Medley Relay Men - Neil Fair 4x100m Freestyle Relay Men 4x100m Medley Relay Women 4x200m Freestyle Relay 400m Individual Medley Men - Neil Fair

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neil greig Siyoli kicks off in San Francisco

Siyoli kicks off in San Francisco Contributed by Neil Greig - Backpage Media

SPORTS NEWS

South Africa’s No 1 female squash star Siyoli Waters will line up against India’s Dipika Pallikal on September 25 in the opening round of the Netsuite Open Squash Championships in San Francisco, USA. The event runs from 25 to 29 September and after playing in San Francisco, Waters is likely to take part in another event in New York, the Carol Weymuller Open, which happens in early October. In the USA, Siyoli hopes to continue progressing in her game and improving her rankings: “I know it will be tough in the USA. But to keep improving your game it is important to play against the best in the world and this is why I travel so often to play,” she tells Game On Magazine. But facing Dipika in San Francisco will not be easy for South Africa’s champion. Her opponent is the first Indian woman to break into the top 10 rankings of the Official Women’s Squash Rankings and Dipika is currently 18th in the world. Waters’ most recent tour was in Australia where she managed to move up a few places in the world rankings, having jumped to 31 in the world. The Cape Town resident has enjoyed some mixed results Down Under.”I played in the Australia Open and the Victorian Open. I made it to the semifinals in the Victorian event and it was my first time at this event, so I was happy to beat the number 4 seed Donne Urquhart, who is a former World number 17,” Siyoli said.”But then I lost to Line Hansen of Denmark, in what was a tough game. She is a very good player, number 26 in the World. In the Australia Open, I lost to fifth seed Rachel Grinham, who is World Number 15 and a former number 2 in the world. I lost 3-2 in a very tough battle.”

WATCH SIYOLI WATERS IN ACTION

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Sports News: soccer

Words: Graeme Jackson – Backpage Media | Photos: Samuel Shivambu - BackpagePix

Bree Primary School will represent South Africa in next month’s Danone’s Nations Cup World Final in Marrakech, Morocco. The Danone Nations Cup is ‘the world’s biggest football tournament for children aged 10 to 12’ and has been held every year since 2000. Across 32 different countries, primary schools battle to reach their national finals and win the right to represent their nation at the annual World Finals. Last year, the World Finals took place in Sao Paulo and saw Japan claim their first title by defeating Paraguay in the final. South Africa has a strong record in the Danone Nations Cup, with our schools having won the World Finals in 2003, 2007 and

2009. In fact, six years ago it was the very same Bree Primary who claimed the trophy, defeating their counterparts from Switzerland in the final held at Orlando Stadium in Soweto. As part of their preparation for the World Finals in Morocco, Bree Primary recently played Mamelodi Sundowns’ U-13 development team and surprised their older opponents by winning 4-1. “Our players are usually smaller than those from other countries, so they need to get used to playing against stronger boys and must not feel intimidated. There are many factors that contribute to SA players being smaller, it’s a reality and the boys must not allow this to affect the way

they play,” Bree coach Joel Masilela said in a press release. GOOD LUCK! The Danone Nations Cup World Finals will be held from October 23 to 25. Aside from South Africa’s Bree Primary, the following countries will be represented at the tournament by their national champions: Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and United States of America.

Danone Nations Cup 2015 Bree Primary School to fly the flag for SA Words: Graeme Jackson – Backpage Media | Photos: Samuel Shivambu - BackpagePix

MEET THE DANONE NATIONS CUP

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neil greig SA 7’s youngsters scoop gold

South Africa is celebrating our young 7’s rugby team who won gold at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Apia, Samoa with a 30-21 victory over Australia in the Sevens Rugby final on 11 September 2015.

the deficit to four with three minutes remaining on the clock. Francios Agenbag however squashed any chances of a comeback as he skipped through the Aussie defence to race in for his second try of the match.

The two sides qualified for the showpiece unbeaten, but it would be South Africa to come out on top having suffered defeat to the same opposition in the 2011 final on the Isle of Man.

Coach of the team, Marius Schoeman, shared what he thought about the South Africans’ victory: “The boys made it a bit hard on themselves in the second half, but dug in deep when they needed to.

South Africa led 24-5 at the break, but the Aussies fought back to reduce

“This Australian team has been together for some time now and

attended five training camps before the competition. They were pretty confident of gold, but we knew if we stuck to our structures, believed in the structures and played for each other we had every chance of winning. I’m just trying to let it sink in, I am very proud of this group.” In total South Africa won 35 medals (13 gold, 7 silver and 15 bronze) at the Games.

SPORTS NEWS

SA 7’s youngsters scoop gold in Samoa at Commonwealth Youth Games 2015 Contributed by Neil Greig - Backpage Media

The South Africans that won gold in Samoa Manie Libbok (SWD, Outeniqua) Embrose Papier (Blue Bulls, Garsfontein) Francois Agenbag (Free State, Grey College) Curwin Bosch (Eastern Province, Grey College) Heino Bezuidenhout (Eastern Province, Daniel Pienaar) Stedman Gans (Blue Bulls, Waterkloof)

Donovan du Randt (The Sharks, Glenwood) Hacjivah Dayimane (Golden Lions, Jeppe) Johan Visser (Western Province, Paarl Gymnasium) Damian Willemse (Western Province, Paul Roos) JC Pretorius (Pumas, Middelburg) Mfundu Ndlovu (Pumas, Standerton)

Management Manager: Marius Schoeman (SARU)

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Coach: Paul Delport (SARU)


Sports News: Wheelchair Basketball

Words: Dan Lombard | Photo: Sasol

Amawheelaboys win Test series against New Zealand Contributed by Dan Lombard

The South African Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team did the nation proud after winning all five tests to take the series against New Zealand’s Roller Blacks.

Sasol Amawheelaboys vs New Zealand Roller Blacks

The series was held at the Mandeville Sports Complex in Johannesburg.

Results Friday, 28 August Saturday, 29 August Sunday, 30 August Friday, 4 September Saturday, 5 September

won 95-35 won 87-31 won 87-38 won 80-52 won 66-37

SA Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team: Steven Walgenbach, Rakgetsing Molete; Lisolomzi Mazantsana, Gift Mooketsi, Kyle Louw, Simanga Mbhele, Richard Nortje, Luvuyo Mbanda, Cecil Dumond, Jack Mokgosi, Tucker Beckett, Siphamangla Gumbi. The team have now set their sights on the IWBF African Qualifiers in Algiers from 31 October to 7 November. The winning team will represent Africa at the Rio Paralympics next year.

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