Illness hampers U12 squad in Maputo

Tennis
Mariud Ngula
  • 3 Months Ago 15 August 2024
Three under-12 tennis players who represented the country at last weekend's ITF/CAT Southern African Junior Teams competition in Maputo, Mozambique, were hampered by illness.

Namibia’s top-seeded player, Okahandja’s Breyton Bezuidenhout, fell ill on the first day of the competition.

Bezuidenhout, alongside Shafishina Shimali and Pameni Paulus from Windhoek, were accompanied by coach Patrick Paulus.

Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on Namibia's side, as Bezuidenhout fell ill on the first day for a scheduled tie that the country had a strong chance of winning. In the end, Bezuidenhout and Shimali secured Namibia’s only win out of the three ties they played.

Coach Paulus said despite the setback, the boys showed remarkable determination. He emphasised that they only need more international exposure. He further urged parents, the community and sponsors to support the young talents, particularly when players represent the country.

Looking ahead, the boys plan to participate in the renowned Growthpoint Series in Cape Town, South Africa, in December. “This will help them sharpen their skills and return stronger next year, especially since this was not only their first taste of international tennis, but also their first year in the under-12 category,” said coach Paulus.

“These types of tournaments are essential for tennis development and Namibia cannot afford to be left behind.”

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