The competition is expected to attract 420 players drawn from South Africa. The academy made its first appearance at the junior championships in 2022. The team won one gold medal through the Under-11 girls’ team and four bronze medals. The competition started yesterday (Thursday) and ends on Sunday. Tam coach, Koketso Ntshebe said the selection of the team was based on the best two players in each age category and in some cases three players depending on the player rating.
He said in some instances, the wild card was given to players to see if, given a chance, they can improve their game. “The most important thing is the growth of seven new players added in this year’s edition. Only two players are missing from last year’s competition being Angel Otshabeng and Dristi Khatri because of injury and relocation from Gaborone,” he said. Ntshebe said the expectation is better results from last year with the main target being the Under-19 girls, who missed last year's competition. Meanwhile, Dreadsports Squash Academy won the German Open, beating a number of European players.
The owner of the academy, Lefika Ragontse said the win should be a motivation for locally-based players that they can do it. “My players have been dominating in the USA. Now they crossed over to make a mark in Europe. It is possible for our players in Botswana to follow the same pattern. All it takes is commitment. The support is available, waiting for them to grab it with both hands,” he said. Dreadsports will sponsor the second edition of professional and junior tournament scheduled for April.
The team to Bloemfontein Declan Garcin and Josh Garcin (Under 11 boys), Chloe Garcin (Under 11 girls), Onosi Moakofi and Enoch Banyatsi (Under 13 boys), Fezlyn Segokgo and Annah Otshabeng (Under 13 girls), Kutlo Basima, Ted Powe and Kago Mathaio (Under 14 boys), Kakanyo Ntshebe (Under 14 girls), Atang Gajekgomo and Eda Gaoalafe (Under 16 boys), Beda Gaoalafe (Under 16 girls), Leungo Katse, Peo Gosalamang and Neo Phatsima (Under 19 girls). Coaches: Chadiwa Moyo, Elliot Sibanda and Koketso Ntshebe.
