Two members of the Boksburg Cardinals Baseball Club, Dean du Plessis (14) and Joshua Botha (14) want to make their cardinals teammates proud at the U15 World Cup in Mexico.
The teammates have been called-up to join the U15 South African team that’s going to compete in the World Cup that starts on August 26 up until September 4 in Hermosillo, Mexico.
Du Plessis said he is happy that he made it into the national team, but he is a bit nervous because it will be the first world cup he competes in.
“My parents and coaches have been supportive and helped me to get prepared for the prestigious competition. I was chosen to be part of the South African team when we played in the National Provincial Baseball Championships, representing the Gauteng Province Baseball Council, in Cape Town.
“I love baseball and have been playing for 11 years – since the age of three – for the Boksburg Cardinals.”
He added that he was inspired and motivated by his father to play baseball.
“My father played baseball when he was young so when he showed me old photos of himself in the baseball jersey I was inspired. It has always been my dream to play baseball at the highest level, so I’m glad I’m getting that opportunity now.
“I’m focusing on being fit and doing exercises that increase my strength in preparation of the World Cup.”
Joshua Botha, who was part of the U12 South African team that took part in the 2019 World Cup in Taiwan, said he feels privileged and proud to don the SA colours again.
“I am really looking forward to going to Mexico for the championships and also to experience their culture,” he said.
Joshua has been playing baseball for 10 years under the same coach, who is also heading to Mexico, and promises to play to the best of his ability for the team.
“I will stay positive and encourage my teammates during the World Cup. My favourite baseball player is Shohei Othoni who plays for the Los Angeles Angels,” said Joshua.
“I aspire to be a professional baseball player and a sports psychologist.”
President of Boksburg Cardinals Gavin Bennett said he’s proud that six of their players will be representing South Africa at different baseball tournaments.
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