Reddam House Helderfontein celebrated the achievements of two of their own who were part of the South Africa U17 men’s side that took home bronze in a recent European tournament.
Grade 11 learner Bathandwa Moraka (16) and head of water polo at the school Temba Bungane (26) took part in the EU Nations Water Polo Cup held in Brno, Czech Republic from April 15 to 17.
For both player and coach, it was the first time representing South Africa on the world stage in the sport. Bungane was named as coach of the side while Bathandwa was called up to claim his first national cap in the sport.
“[Representing South Africa] was quite an experience. I think the goal of every player is to make the national side and making the SA side was one of the happiest moments of my life,” said Bathandwa.
Both Bathandwa and Bungane have revelled in getting back to training full time as opposed to the sporadic training over the past two years due to Covid. With the team not getting in the preferred preparation for the tournament, placing third was a great achievement.
Bungane reflected on their time in the Czech Republic.
“Achieving a medal is always special, no matter the tournament. The bittersweet moment is that we missed out on gold by two goals. However, the group that came together under the circumstances, we can always be proud of them.
“Yes, we could have done better, but at that time those specific decisions in those moments were the correct call. It will always be special for us to come away from it with a bronze medal,” he said.
Looking to the future, both have dreams to continue the sport at a national level. Bathandwa said he would like to play in the United States or Europe, and Bungane spoke of his aspirations in coaching.
“Having my first experience as a head coach in the South African programme was the experience of a lifetime. I want to grow in that space and hopefully, get one or two more head coach positions in the next few years.
“As it stands, I should be going to the World Championships with the U18 side as the assistant coach. So I want to gain as much knowledge as I can and bring it back to the school. I want to grow in my role as a South African coach and provincial coach.”
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