An adventure awaits local tennis stars
“Even though our parents won’t be coming with we will be travelling with each other so that is nice,”
Two local tennis stars from Holy Rosary School have been selected to represent South Africa in America later this year.
Talya Wilmot and Erin McKenzie, both 13 years old, will travel to the USA in August as members of the u-13 SA Tennis Squad.
The two girls, who train at the Jeppe Quondam Sports Club, were selected for the squad at the Inter-Provincial Tennis Tournament in April.
“I really couldn’t believe that we were selected,” said Wilmot.
“This is the first time we have been given the opportunity to represent South Africa,” said McKenzie.
“We are looking forward to it.”
Also read: Tennis action at KenRho
Wilmot said at the Inter-Provincial Tennis Tournament she and McKenzie were two of the top players.
“Scouts watching the tournament only chose the top players of the event,” she explained.
While in the USA Wilmot and McKenzie will play against players from America in a skills development tournament in Louisiana.
They will also have the opportunity to watch a day and a night session at the 2018 US Tennis Open.
“It will be great to watch Roger Federer play on the court. He is one of our favourite tennis players,” said McKenzie.
“Federer just seems so calm on the court. He doesn’t get angry and he plays well.”
With over six years’ experience for both players, the local players believe their hard work on the tennis court has paid off.
Almost every day McKenzie and Wilmot spend three hours on the court.
Also read: Yeoville Tennis Club struggles along
“I am looking forward to playing against players from America and comparing myself to them,” said Wilmot.
McKenzie said she is looking forward to playing well and doing her best.
“I hope that they remember me and keep me in mind for future events,” she said.
Although the two friends are excited to represent SA they said they are a little nervous as they will be travelling without their parents.
“Even though our parents won’t be coming with we will be travelling with each other so that is nice,” said McKenzie.
When McKenzie and Wilmot return to South Africa they will put their newly learnt skills to good use.
In a few year’s time, the two girls hope to be winning more national tournaments and playing in the international arena.
“We definitely want to play in Spain one day and play at the Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy,” said Wilmot.
