Dream comes true for Thembisa table tennis duo

Thembisa athletes Zakhele Buthelezi and Malwande Masha have added another achievement to their impressive season, securing bronze in the doubles category at the SA Table Tennis Open 2024.

This follows their remarkable performance earlier in the year, where they won gold and bronze at the Johannesburg Table Tennis Open.

The duo’s recent success has placed them among Thembisa’s top sportsmen, with their accomplishments shining a spotlight on the community.

ALSO READ: Tennis and swimming lessons empower Thembisa youth

For Buthelezi and Masha, securing bronze at a national level was a dream come true.

“It has always been our goal to represent Thembisa on the national stage, and to have this opportunity is an honor.

“We’ve worked hard, and to finally see our community on the map of great achievers means everything to us,” they said.

Their journey to success has been built on a foundation of hard work, patience, commitment, and consistency.

These principles were ingrained in their training, serving as daily motivation to push through challenges and continue striving for excellence. “Our strategy worked well in our favor, and we’re proud of the results.”

ALSO READ: Tennis brought back to Kempton Park

The pair also reflected on a difficult moment during the tournament, particularly when they faced a tough opponent from Cape Town.

“We started to lose hope, but we reminded each other that we deserved to be here and couldn’t give up at the finish line. That drove us to secure the win.”

Their coach, Gezani Ndlhovu, has been instrumental in their development.

He expressed pride in his team and the positive influence table tennis has had on their lives.

“As a coach, I work hard every week, not just to improve their skills, but also to keep them focused and away from negative distractions like smoking.

“I want to see them grow, gain more experience, and achieve their dreams,” said Ndlhovu.