News

From the Court to Italy: Her Winning Journey!

Published

10 months ago

July 27, 2023

Fourteen-year-old Tshiamo Molefe from Mohlakeng represents the country in the 7th Giochi De Fri-Colore basketball games in Italy, scheduled until July 30. She earned this opportunity after being chosen to join the U16 Gauteng team based on her outstanding performance at the OR Tambo Soncini Games, where she represented the West Rand team.

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Tshiamo, a Grade Nine learner at Phahama Senior Secondary School, has always been passionate about sports and enjoys playing basketball. She started her basketball journey in June of the previous year and described it as a life-changing experience. For her, basketball provides a space to be herself, enjoy teamwork, and build strong connections with her teammates. Initially, Tshiamo faced some resistance due to stereotypes associated with basketball being predominantly male-oriented, but she has now overcome those challenges.

Tshiamo’s coach, Tebogo Letsholonyana, who leads the Mohlakeng Flames Basketball team, is impressed by her talent and strong opinions on the court. He finds it rewarding to teach her the sport and acknowledges the team’s success in nurturing her skills.

Tshiamo’s mother, Boitumelo Chabedi, is thrilled with her daughter’s achievements and persistence. Her perception of basketball as a female-centric sport has changed, and she wholeheartedly supports Tshiamo in her endeavours.

As Tshiamo takes on her first international trip to represent her country in basketball, she carries the pride and support of her community, coach, and family.

Source: She shoots; she scores! All the way to Italy