Emerging Squash Stars Shine at Growthpoint South African U15 Nationals

Cape Town – The Growthpoint SA U15 Nationals squash championships have been celebrated as a remarkable achievement.

During last week’s tournament in Cape Town, the nation’s youth showcased immense talent, determination, and competitive spirit.

The event took place on the all-glass court at Makers Landing in the V&A Waterfront and featured eight players of colour in the U15 age category (half of the participants), highlighting the increasing inclusivity within the sport.

In the boys’ division, Zayd Badroodien from Cape Town delivered a remarkable performance, securing the top position despite a loss in his final match to Zander Smit from Boland.

The final standings resulted in Badroodien, Smit, and fellow Western Province player Rupert Good all tied on points, with Badroodien claiming the title based on countback.

Aakiefah Taliep from Western Province also stood out in the girls’ division, finishing as runner-up following a fierce match against Northerns’ top seed, Chanel Leppan, in Saturday’s final.

Despite showcasing remarkable skill and tenacity, Taliep came up short as Leppan maintained her composure to clinch a 3-1 victory and the national title.

Border’s Simi Shwababa also had a commendable tournament, finishing third after a solid showing against Northerns player Mia Bakkes in her concluding match.

For many participants, the championships marked a significant milestone in their growth while offering a chance to compete against some of the country’s elite young athletes.

Shwababa, a Grade 7 student at Stirling Primary, was introduced to squash at the age of four, following in the footsteps of her parents, brother, and sister who all played the sport.

“I started at around four because my family played squash; I thought it would be fun to join them,” she shared.

At 13, Shwababa is also a hockey player for Border but finds squash presents a unique challenge.

“It really pushes me. It’s not just a physical game, but a mental one too, and I enjoy tackling the mental challenges it brings,” she explained.

Having recently secured the SA Junior Championships U15 title, Shwababa is familiar with glass courts, having competed at the Egyptian Open two years ago.

“Playing on a glass court is a different experience, and I’ve been getting used to it over time. I eagerly look forward to returning,” she commented.

Phethahatso Motsoeneng from Limpopo was introduced to squash by his father just before the Covid-19 pandemic, but it was later that he truly found his passion for the sport.

“I saw my dad playing squash right before Covid hit and later sought out a coach after starting to play for fun,” he shared.

“When the pandemic struck, I grew quite a bit as I transitioned into my teenage years, and I decided to return to squash and explore it further.

“I developed a genuine love for squash and I have aspirations and goals in the sport.”

Though he faced a 3-1 defeat to George Hung from Free State, Motsoeneng felt positive about his overall performance.

“I played well, but my opponent was strategic towards the end. I believe I could have exerted myself a bit more, but I’m young and constantly learning,” he reflected.

For Taliep, squash is deeply rooted in family, having been introduced to the game by her grandfather.

“I started playing squash because of my grandfather. He played with me a lot and I often watched him compete in league matches,” she recalled.

Ponatshego Molefe, a Joburg Squash player from Soweto, stumbled upon squash by chance and became the first player in his family.

“I’m the first in my family to take up squash,” he mentioned. “When my dad first approached a coach, he was carrying a golf bag, but they informed him that their primary sport was squash.

“My mom took me to practice, and I found it enjoyable from the very beginning.”

Molefe has experienced both triumphs and setbacks, including an injury, but he believes squash has opened many doors for him.

“I faced an injury, but I also earned a scholarship to one of the top schools (St John’s College) in the country, which was a significant opportunity for me,” he shared.

After recently completing a 26-day camp without playing squash, Molefe was determined to seize the opportunity presented to him.

“I’ll give it my all and hopefully perform well,” he stated.

With dedicated players like Shwababa, Taliep, Motsoeneng, and Molefe showcasing their passion and determination, the future of junior squash in South Africa looks promising.

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