Wheelchair Tennis Champion

In between my studies and often taking preference however is my true love - wheelchair tennis.  I represent South Africa in the sport and currently hold the number one ranking in the woman’s division.

My interest lies in helping disabled people to see that sport is a wonderful way to raise your confidence, meet new people, get fit, while enjoying the game of tennis.

I am always willing to help people who are interested in the game of tennis.  Disabled people need far more assistance in getting onto the tennis court and those who, like me, are more mobile than most disabled players, do all that we can to assist.  

Wheelchair tennis is very social and it opens doors for you to interact with lots of different and interesting people - people with real stories, because of what they have had to overcome in their lives.

For me a defining moment in my career was playing in front of thousands of people at the Beijing Paralympics on centre court.  In fact even just qualifying for the Paralympics was a very exciting high point in my tennis career thus far.  My nominations and awards are as follows:

• I was nominated for Disabled Women of the Year in 2007
• I received a recognition award from the University of Venda in 2006 for my participation in a European tour representing my country 
• In 2009 I received another award from the University for my participation in the World Team Cup in the UK
• I was awarded with the Limpopo Premier’s trophy/certificate in 2008 and again in 2009

About me as a person:  I enjoy listening to various genres of music and also take pleasure in playing table tennis and taking in a good movie

I am hugely inspired by the world number one wheelchair tennis player, Esther Vergeer. She is truly my inspiration and I hope to see myself playing in her league and participating in the upcoming Paralympics in London.

Wheelchair Tennis South Africa and Airports Company South Africa inspired this love of sport in my life and I am truly thankful for the opportunities and incredible support they have shown me throughout my sporting career to date.  More women need to be involved in sport; even more so, women who are disabled! Not just to compete but for the health benefits so that we can live longer, happier lives, and share our knowledge with the next generation.

• What is the best piece of advice you have received?

If you’ve got a talent – and we all do - then use it

• What do you think is the secret to happiness

Living a healthy life

• What do you think is key to making our world a better place?

Believe in yourself and believe that what you do matters in this world 

• What is the one thing that you are sure of in your life?

I know I have talent and what I do with that talent is up to me

• Favourite quote…

“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” - TS Eliot

Wheelchair Tennis South Africa has opened so many doors for me.  Not only have I made wonderful friends, and learned to play a very fulfilling sport, but through it I have been able to visit countries – some of those I hadn’t even heard of before.