We caught up with the triple amputee, who just competed in France.
What inspired you to start playing tennis as it’s seen as an Englishman’s sport?
I always wanted to be a soccer player but I was involved in a terrible train accident and lost three limbs when I was 12 years old. It was an emotional journey, I had to learn how to write again as I was right handed and I had to learn how to dress myself with one arm. The community and my friends found it difficult to accept my circumstances and I had to deal with rejection from those who were close to me before the accident happened. I basically lost all my friends because I was not able to play soccer with them anymore. There was hope for me when wheelchair tennis was introduced at my school when I was in matric, and that was the first time I saw wheelchair tennis in action. I always enjoyed sport and I enjoyed the challenge that came with playing tennis using a wheelchair. Thanks to Patrick Selepe, who introduced me to the game, my teacher at Filadelphia School who encouraged me, and Airports Company South Africa, who made it possible for me to play at school. They all encouraged me and helped me start the journey that I am now on.
How has tennis changed your life?
Wheelchair tennis and my faith has changed my life because they have both given me a purpose and a dream to follow in my life.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself becoming no.1 in the world and getting my gold medal at the 2016 Paralympics that will be held in Rio, Brazil.
Many people in the townships don’t see being fit as a lifestyle but see it rather as a ‘chore’, what motivational advice do you have for them?
In today’s life it is becoming more and more important to be fit, both mentally and physically. To achieve anything in life, you have to have a dream. I would like to encourage all people to have a dream or passion in life and then to commit to all the relevant facets you need to make your dream a reality.
How do you keep fit?
I like to be independent so I push myself around instead of using an aid. My upper body gets a full work out as I push myself using just my one arm. My core muscles also need to be strong so I do sit ups every morning and evening to strengthen my core. I also practise my tennis skills and mobility for approximately three hours per day for at least five days a week when I am not competing.
What eating tips do you have for our readers?
Eat as healthily as possible but most importantly don’t over eat. Like everything in life, your choices have consequences and the same principal applies to food. I believe balance is the golden rule when it comes to food and eating a balanced meal is the best way to stay healthy.
