Next up in our Fresh & Hungry Series is Footballer Michael Harrison, a brilliant Kaiser Chiefs Junior Team player. This young-and-up-coming champion of 16 years old is definitely one to watch out for! Michael, known as “Mikey” or “Harrison” to friends and coaches says this of his jersey numbers 8/10 – the numbers of Generals “engines of the game”. “At age five, Michael was fearless with speed that even shocked me… He only wanted to score goals….and boy he did!” says his mom – Nicole Harrison.
Michael and his Dad. “At age five, Michael was fearless with speed that even shocked me… He only wanted to score goals….and boy he did!” says his mom – Nicole Harrison.
On the field he is able to read the game incisively, while anticipating the movement of the opposition. He has the ability to orchestrate the flow of the game and create scoring opportunities for the strikers in his team. Off the field he is committed to everything he does, always pushing to finish a thing once he has started it. He says “It’s in my nature to go above and beyond my abilities to “think out the box””. He supports his friends and family and is committed to his academics to ensure above average grades and university entrance.
He believes that “Life is a beautiful journey and I understand that there are a variety of activities I need to be committed to such as: being committed to my spiritual life at church; supporting my community however I can.
On the field he is able to read the game incisively, while anticipating the movement of the opposition. He has the ability to orchestrate the flow of the game and create scoring opportunities for the strikers in his team.
INTERVIEW:
You are passionate about your footie, tell me a little bit about how you started in football and your football journey up to now?
My passion for football developed at an early age. I started playing football when I was 4 years of age. I used to play with kids older than me, at Robertsham Callies Football Club and I must say this contributed a lot towards the development of my skills in the sport. I then moved on to play school football and was selected to play at district levels, for Discovery, and then I played for Wits University Junior team. At the moment, I am playing for the Kaizer Chiefs Junior team.
What has been some of your highlights in football so far?
A wow moment for me was when I got called to feature with George Wear, on the African Cup of Nations advert, which was shot at Soccer City (FNB Stadium).
What club do you play for and how do you find it?
I play for Kaizer Chiefs. I find it both challenging and interesting as I get to learn new things every day, which are adding value and contributing immensely towards realising my dream. I really enjoy playing here.
What position do you play?
All-rounder, besides goal keeper. I perform where I am needed.
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
I ensure that I don’t lose focus in class, and I wake up in the early hours of the morning to study.
What do you do to relax?
Play PS, go out with friends and listening to music. I also love to go out on dates.
Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?
My coach, Arthur Zwane.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined.”
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Never limit yourself, always reach for the best.
What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?
Academics and soccer; I have to always give my all towards both.
When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?
My team mates that encourage me. We are always there for each other.
My team mates that encourage me. We are always there for each other.
I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Michael Harrison?
To get into the professional football ranks in the near future.
Thank you so much Michael for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for the future and for your plans ahead. We look forward to following your exciting journey. Blessings!
Michael and his sister.
Michael and Soccer Legend Shaun Bartlett
Michael in the early days with his special cousin!
Today we are honoured to connect Up-Close with Sebastien Rousseau, one of SA’s finest exports, highly acclaimed for his performances in the swimming arena in and out of SA. He is currently living in the USA but proudly swimming for SA at international meets.
Sebastien started dreaming big as a youngster of 8 years old, when he told his dad that he wanted to compete in the Olympics one day. Destined and determined these words ended up exactly what he got! He is a 2x Olympic Champion, who was the youngest member on team in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, being a month shy of his 18th birthday at that time. He did brilliantly and went on to represent SA at the London Olympics 2012. Now his mind is firmly set on Rio Olympics 2016. He is humbled each time “to wear the special SA cap with our flag and to swim for the people of South Africa”.
Since young Sebastien has been an SA and African record breaker. This shining young champion has taken the centre stage for medals at many top world class meets representing SA at World Champs, Commonwealth Games and others. He holds the Mail & Guardian’s prestigious title of 200 Young South Africans. This they award to the few who are “young, courageous, optimistic, and brimming with talent”. In the US he has become a swimming force to be reckoned with. He has done brilliantly on the collegiate swimming circuit in the US, and has earned the honorary title of “All-American”. He accredits his many victories to his dedicated couches – Gregg Troy (USA) and Graham Hill (RSA).
The words that come to mind when I think of Sebastien is “joyful sacrifice”. For a youngster to leave behind his precious family, friends and homeland to go and pursue his dreams show great character and strength in a man. I could see from the interview below that he has such a deep compassion and genuine love for SA and her people. Sometimes this wonderful “switch” within us is only turned on when we step out of our borders and experience the world at large.
There is a huge sense of pride when you get to represent the people of South Africa, especially when you see the flag on your swimming cap before you go out to race.
Read on to see what stirs this inspiring young man, and what his plans hold for the future……
INTERVIEW:
You are admired all around the world for your swimming achievements. How did Sebastien Rousseau start out in swimming, and how did he become such a SA Swimming brand and household name?
Swimming was just the sport that came to me most naturally, I have always felt peaceful being in the water. I played all the usual sports when I was growing up, but when I realized I could make a big push in swimming I had to give up those other sports, and focus entirely on my swimming. The successes that I have had in swimming are due to the countless hours that I have put into the sport. No success comes without hard work, and I pride myself on being a dedicated athlete. I also have a great love for swimming which makes it a lot easier for me to go in every day and train for all those hours. It also helps that I hate to lose, which also drives me to push myself past any ‘boundaries’.
Swimming was just the sport that came to me most naturally.
You are an Olympian, when you swam for your country, what did it feel like?
It was, and continues to be an amazing feeling. This is something I dreamt of as a young child, and now to be living my dream is better than anything I could have asked for. There is a huge sense of pride when you get to represent the people of South Africa, especially when you see the flag on your swimming cap before you go out to race.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND. 26 July 2014. Commonwealth Games, swimming Day Three. Chad le Clos, gold medal and Sebastion Rousseau, bronze medal in the 100m fly. Copyright picture by WESSEL OOSTHUIZEN / SASPA
You currently live in the US and graduated in Sports Management in 2014 – how did you experience that and what about SA did you miss the most?
It was a very exciting but also challenging experience, and one that I will always cherish, because it has taught me so much about myself as a person, and an athlete. The people here at the University of Florida are now family to me. I have a great relationship with the coaches, which has made the experience truly amazing. I have also made friends with people from all over the world due to athletes coming from other countries to UF, and that has been invaluable to create memories with these people I now consider family. However in saying that, the aspect of SA that I miss the most is definitely my family. My family made many sacrifices for me to get to where I am today, and I know that without them I wouldn’t have reached my goals. Whenever I am home, I make sure to cherish my time with them as my family is important to me. I also miss the SA food, especially braais. Being from Cape Town, I also miss the countless beautiful beaches that we have within a 15min drive.
Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in swimming? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?
I think the lessons that I learnt as a young swimmer, swimming with some much older swimmers, in how you can push your body despite what your mind might want to tell you when you are tired, have played the biggest roles in my success. My coach takes care of the training program and I trust him fully with that and I just come to practice looking to take on the challenge of whatever workout he might have planned for me.
My coach takes care of the training program and I trust him fully with that and I just come to practice looking to take on the challenge of whatever workout he might have planned for me.
How did you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
While I was still studying, it could get pretty hectic managing it all. However we have a great structure here at the University of Florida to help athletes achieve in the classroom, which was a huge benefit to me. We were provided with tutors whenever we needed them and we had an academic advisor, who helped tremendously with the putting together of our schedules. Right now, I am solely focussed on my swimming, since I graduated in December 2014.
Beside your swimming what do you have a passion for?
I definitely have a passion for most sports, especially rugby which I had to give up once my swimming got serious. I still watch as much rugby as I can with the help of live streaming sport websites. I also have a huge passion for traveling. Through swimming, I have been fortunate enough to travel the world and experience so many different cultures which I love. I want to continue traveling throughout my life and see as much of the world as I can.
What do you do to relax?
I like to get out of the house and do anything active to relax. Reading is also very relaxing for me and helps me wind down after a long day.
Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?
The Awesome Foursome – Ryk Neethling, Roland Schoeman, Darian Townsend, Lyndon Ferns – who won gold in the 4x100m Freestyle Relay at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. These guys proved to me at a young age that South African swimmers could go and compete with the best in the world and come out victorious!
Which athlete/ athletes inspire you? The Awesome Foursome – Ryk Neethling, Roland Schoeman, Darian Townsend, Lyndon Ferns – who won gold in the 4x100m Freestyle Relay at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. These guys proved to me at a young age that South African swimmers could go and compete with the best in the world and come out victorious!
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
“Fall in love with the process of becoming great.”
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Believe in yourself and never let anyone tell you something can’t be done. No one else can compete for you, so you have to have the belief in yourself that you can achieve the goals you set for yourself.
Living away from home / travelling extensively is a sacrifice, in this situation, what does it feel like? What grounds you – what becomes your touchstone to remind you that the sacrifice is worth it?
My love for swimming is what always brings me back to the realization that what I am doing is worth it when it might get tough sometimes. My family is also something that grounds me. My parents have taught me through lessons that what I am doing is special, but that I am no more special than anyone else on the earth in terms of living this life in a positive and humble way.
When an athlete hits a “hard / difficult patch” in their sports career, what goes through their mind at that time? What advice can you give other young-and-up-coming athletes?
This is possibly the most important part of an athlete’s career. This is when you need to have all the self belief in yourself and what you are doing, and with this self belief you will be able to rise from any “difficult patch”. It is also important to have a good support group, which will usually be your family and friends who will help you through tough times.
This is possibly the most important part of an athlete’s career. This is when you need to have all the self belief in yourself and what you are doing, and with this self belief you will be able to rise from any “difficult patch”.
When you’ve had a tough/bad day, what lifts you up again?
Speaking to my friends and family. They will always put things into perspective for me if I’ve had a bad day. The reality in life and sport, is that things will not always go according to plan and the sooner you understand this, the easier it is to move past a bad day. In my life, and my sport, I like to focus on the things that I can control. There is no point in beating yourself up about something you can’t personally control, it is just a waste of your energy.
I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Sebastien Rousseau?
Right now, all my energy is focused on my training and keeping my body in the best shape possible for the World Championships in Kazan, Russia, in August. This in turn is preparation for the 2016 Olympics in Rio next year.
Right now, all my energy is focused on my training and keeping my body in the best shape possible for the World Championships in Kazan, Russia, in August. This in turn is preparation for the 2016 Olympics in Rio next year.
Thank you so much Sebastien for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for the future and for your plans ahead. We look forward to following your exciting journey. Blessings!
Sebastien Live in Action here:
Sebastien Bio / Stats
Name & Surname
Sebastien Rousseau
Nick Name
Seabass
Date of birth
10 September 1990
Place of birth
Sandton, Johannesburg
Current City
Gainesville, Florida
Height
1.9m
Weight
90kg
Shoe Size
13
Club
Gator Swim Club (USA) and Seagulls (RSA)
Coach’s Name
Gregg Troy (USA) and Graham Hill (RSA)
Out of Country events/ meets
2 x South African Olympian (2008 & 2012)2 x World Championships (2009 & 2011)2 x Commonwealth Games (2010 & 2014)
Favorite City
Cape Town (RSA) and Chicago (USA)
Favorite Song/ type of music
Consider Me – Prime Circle
Favorite Movie
Cinderella Man
Tertiary
University of Florida – graduated 2014
Tertiary degree/ diploma
Recreation, Leisure and Tourism – with a focus on Sport Management
Today I connect with one of those all-rounder champions, Timothy Langerman, excelling in Triatle, Biathle, with a love for rugby and water polo. He is a grade 11 student at Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town. Lucky guy, with the sea and beautiful Table Mountain to urge him on!
He is a grade 11 student at Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town. Lucky guy, with the sea and beautiful Table Mountain to urge him on!
Tim is a humble, hardworking and passionate sportsman of 16 years old. He is fairly new to the multi sports arena but is already making waves with his brilliant achievements. He is determined to move forward with his sports, yet not neglecting his academics and uses meticulous planning as a weapon to get through the different aspects of his day.
Tim has this to say about himself “I am a dedicated athlete and have a very “Type A” personality, meaning I go for what I want until I have nothing left. …..I am privileged to every day have beautiful facilities surrounding me that can help me on my path”. As a 2 year old Tim repeatedly jumped into the pool during his brother’s swimming lessons – now if that was not showing very early signs of the love for sports then I don’t know!
“I am a dedicated athlete and have a very “Type A” personality, meaning I go for what I want until I have nothing left. …
I just want to say to our Youth – be great, you never know who you are inspiring, do not doubt and second guess yourself. If you are working hard at anything – take a moment to celebrate your progress and the point that you are at in your journey!
INTERVIEW:
You are passionate and doing so well in a number of sports disciplines, tell me a little bit about how you started and about your sports journey up to now?
Well, I started in Multi sports in 2013 when I decided to take part in a local ‘Biathlon’ (Run and swim) and I immediately began to grow a passion for multi code sports. I began mainly as a runner and kept swimming fit through my Water Polo. I then decided to give Triathlon a go (Swim, Cycle, Run) and I did my first proper Triathlon competition in December last year and have loved the sport ever since. On the side of Triathlon I still keep up my running, mostly middle distances, and still play school sport which is Rugby and Water polo. My mum is a keen runner and she and my dad used to run marathons and halves together so I guess one could assume I was going to end up running at some point in my life. From the moment my older brother learnt to swim my parents said they could see I was going to love swimming. I would always jump in the pool when he was having a lesson, regardless of the consequences. (My mum had to jump in and save me twice before I had turned two). The last discipline, Cycling is one that is very new to me. I began cycling only at the end of last year and went into Western Province Champs barely knowing how to use cleats. It has been a long hard ride on the cycling side but I can honestly say I’m beginning to love it on the bike.
I began mainly as a runner and kept swimming fit through my Water Polo
What is the highest accolade you have received in Triathlon and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?
I would say winning the U17 WP Triathlon Champs last year at the age of 16 years old. My biggest achievement would probably have been in early 2014 when I won the U15 Category of the South African Biathlon Championships.
Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in Triathlon? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?
Not really, I’ve always tried to maintain a good diet but the seasons are so long so there are always times when I splash out. Otherwise I always try to get a good night’s sleep and not get too anxious before a race.
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
A lot of time is taken up during my day by sports training because I’m having to train for three disciplines instead of one, so balancing academic work on top of all of that is quite tough. I try to plan my days really meticulously and stick close to that plan. It helps to put everything into perspective. I am also incredibly lucky in having a supportive family and circle of friends that help me to keep going.
I try to plan my days really meticulously and stick close to that plan. It helps to put everything into perspective.
Beside your Triathlon what do you have a passion for?
I would say sport and fitness in general but mainly Water Polo. It has been the sport I’ve played the longest and I’ve never lost the passion I have for it regardless of what level I’m playing at.
Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know?
Haha, I have a crazy sweet tooth which makes keeping a healthy diet quite hard.
What do you do to relax?
Mostly just watch movies or go to friends’ houses and chill.
Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?
Richard Murray, Didier Drogba and Mo Farrah. All are incredibly humble and set great examples for younger generations of sportsmen and women. I also admire Caroline Wostmann the 2015 Two Oceans and Comrades winner. She is a perfect example to others in that it is easy to see that she loves what she does and is doing the sport to enjoy it.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
“It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” – Mark Twain.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
I don’t know if it counts as advice, but I’ve always tried to live by this saying: “Do what you love every day and you’ll never have to work a day in your life” I definitely learned that from my Dad who chased his dreams in doing what he wanted.
What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?
Balancing the right amount of family time and other things. I have always, always felt that family comes first. But there is always so much going on at one time that at times I feel it gets quite hard to balance it all. We (My family and I) always have meals together at night and try to spend as much time when we can as possible together.
I have always, always felt that family comes first.
When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?
Family and without a doubt a bowl of popcorn.
I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Tim Langerman?
My next race is in July in Bloemfontein. It is the SA Duathlon Championships and I’m hoping to do okay in that before returning home and resuming my training for WP Triathlon Champs later this year.
Thank you so much Tim for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your sports and academic journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!
Tim is still passionate about his Water Polo.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote? “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” – Mark Twain
Another proudly and passionately SA SWIMMER in the Fresh & Hungry Series is the 23 year old Rene Warnes, nickname “Reen”. A well balanced athlete and BA Psych & Crim graduate, excelling in academics and swimming. She has represented South Africa brilliantly at many World Championships. She is currently training towards her dream at the Seaguls Swimming Club, to make it to Rio Olympics 2016, under the leadership and training of top SA Coaches Graham Hill and Delon Danhauser.
Rene is a deep thinker and gives a glimpse into her inner being by naming her favourite quote as the poem by Maya Angelou called “Still I Rise”. The poem is a poignant declaration of determination, succeeding despite surroundings and history and the strong desire to celebrate our uniqueness and femininity. This fashionista of note has a deep passion for helping children who have experienced trauma and is busy with a post graduate qualification in this regard.
Quiet moment of contemplation.
Interview
You are a seasoned and brilliant SWIMMER, tell me a little bit about how you started in swimming and your journey up to now?
I got into swimming as a young child, went for swimming lessons to be water safe and just found a love for it. I started competitive swimming at the age of 8 years old. I have been swimming for the past 15 years and have loved every minute of it, even during the extremely tough and difficult phases. As the saying goes “no one said that it would be easy, but they did say that it would be worth it”, and for me it definitely has been more than worth it. I have learnt many life lessons through this sport. It has shaped me into the person that I am today.
I have been swimming for the past 15 years and have loved every minute of it, even during the extremely tough and difficult phases.
What is the highest accolade that you have achieved in swimming and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?
The highest accolade that I have achieved was to represent my country at high level World Championships and the Commonwealth Games. I am working towards achieving what is going to be my greatest achievement and that is qualifying for the Olympics in Rio 2016, and competing on the biggest sporting stage in the world.
The highest accolade that I have achieved was to represent my country at high level World Championships and the Commonwealth Games.
Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in swimming? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can partially be attributed to your success?
You will never see me at a big meet without earphones in my ears before getting in for warm up or before a race. Music plays a big role in my life and in my race preparations. There are just certain songs that help me to get into the right head space and fire up my inner competitor.
I do follow an eating plan, but I do love my sweets and chocolates, but try keeping it to a minimum especially leading up to a big meet. I always have steak and pasta before a big meet – that would probably be as specific as it gets.
You have represented Team SA for swimming before, where did you go and how did you experience it?
I have been incredibly lucky to have travelled around the world as part of Team SA for swimming. I have been to places that I would never have visited on my own if it wasn’t for swimming e.g. Kenya, Shenzen (China) and Senegal.
Proudly Team SA
Travelling the world
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
I manage both academics and sport as best as I can. When it comes to exam time, I put my head down and I work hard despite being tired from doing a tough training set. I have been pretty successful in my academic career so far.
Beside your swimming what else do you have a passion for?
Besides swimming, I have a deep seated passion for young children and helping them. I also have a deep, deep passion for fashion. I love dressing up and expressing my inner girly-girl through fashion. I live by these mantras “Dress as though you were going to die today/meet your worst enemy”; and “Dressing well is a form of good manners”. I always want to look presentable to the outside world, even if I am in a tracksuit or in gym gear. As for children… when I decided to go into psychology and criminology, I did it so that one day I could help children who have been affected in negative ways in their lives. I am doing teaching now because that is also a pathway that allows me to help young children.
Rene believes: Dressing well is a form of good manners.
Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know?
I am a pretty open book so nothing right now springs to mind, BUT I would love to be able to pursue my love for fashion and go to fashion school.
What do you do to relax?
To relax, I enjoy watching movies, going shopping, catching up with friends and just being around people that allow me to have a tummy aching laugh, be myself and be happy.
Which athlete inspires you?
Roger Federer is an athlete that does inspire me and I will support him until he decides that he has had enough of his sport. He has recently said that while he is still playing decent tennis, albeit that he isn’t winning as frequently as he used to, he will continue to play the sport because he loves the game. That for me is huge, because he isn’t playing for the pay cheque at the end of every month but because he enjoys the game and is playing for himself.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
Favourite motivational quote: a Poem by Maya Angelou called “Still I Rise”
Although I am not religious, there is a quote that comes to mind: “Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and wisdom to know the difference”.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
“Swim for you, and for no one else”.
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given “swim for you and for no one else”.
What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?
My biggest challenge would be not swimming for myself but rather for other people (parents, coaches, media etc.)
When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?
When I have had a bad day the one thing in life that manages to put a smile on my face would be my English bulldog named Geronimo.
I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Rene Warnes?
I am currently in training and have started preparations for next year April which is when our SA National Championships are held, and they double over as qualifications for Olympics – RIO 2016.
Thank you so much Rene for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your preparations towards Rio Olympics 2016 and your academic journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!
South Africa is really blessed with some of the finest Young Athletes. Today we zoom in and have a chat to Rachel Stevenson, a brilliant SWIMMER. Words that enter my mind about Rachel are: dedicated, committed, a stalwart, determined, hard worker, leader, academic – I can go on. This young champion of 17 years old has just gone from strength to strength under the brilliant coaching and leadership of Coach Gerhard Zandberg, Top SA Swimmer, Olympian and owner of Gerhard Zandberg Sport Academy. Rachel Stevenson has medalled and taken centre stage at SA’s top swimming events over the past few years, and has rubbed shoulders with our top Senior Swimmers at a very young age. Rachel also qualified at the young age of 15 to swim at SA Senior Nationals.
She is an all or nothing type of girl who works relentlessly at her academics, swimming and leadership duties, being elected Head Girl 2015 at Heron Bridge College. Now how is this for the pinnacle of determination: swimming with a broken wrist, working the legs and kicks with a water proof cast on the wrist! Rachel’s heart is to help people and make a difference in the world by becoming a medical doctor and also to be one of the world’s top swimmers. But for now she has just put her faith in the Lord to lead her in her journey and decisions ahead.
Interview
You are passionate and doing so well in your swimming, tell me a little bit about how you started in swimming and your journey in the swimming arena up to now?
I am seventeen years old. My swimming coach is Gerhard Zandberg, and my club is Gerhard Zandberg Sport Academy. I go to Heron Bridge College, and I have been privileged enough to be Head Girl over the course of 2015. I am very determined and I believe that it is important to do everything with 100% effort, or else not do it at all.
True Leader: Head Girl 2015
I started racing competitively at the age of 12, when I qualified for Gauteng schools. I realised that I enjoyed competing, and I started taking part in Central Gauteng Aquatic galas, where I surprised myself and went from one Level 2 Champs , straight into Level 3. I was surrounded by senior swimmers who motivated me, and at my first level 3 nationals I medalled in 50m freestyle. At the age of 15, I qualified for senior nationals in 100m Freestyle and 50m Freestyle. This was definitely a growing experience. At 16 I had a hiccup in my journey as I broke my wrist playing netball and kicked in the pool for 4 months with a waterproof cast. This last year, I changed coaches and rediscovered my passion for the sport. I now swim for Northern Tigers and am thoroughly enjoying it.
Rachel with Coach Gerhard Zandberg
What is the highest accolade you have received in swimming, and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?
At Level 3 Nationals 2015 in Port Elizabeth, I achieved gold for 50m freestyle for 17-18 years and silver for 100m Freestyle. At Senior Nationals this year in Durban, I came 3rd for 50m freestyle 19&under. It was exciting as I competed in my first final for 100m freestyle and achieved PBs. It was incredible racing against the best swimmers in South Africa, the likes of Trudi Maree, Karin Prinsloo, Erin Gallagher, Marlies Ross.
Rachel with Karin Prinsloo
Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in swimming? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?
In the last year, my training regime changed. My coach and I focus more on strength and race experience, rather than too much mileage. We work off targets rather than distance. I enjoy cross training, such as boxing and running as well. I am a fussy eater, so before competitions I challenge myself to eat more of the energy foods such as broccoli that are not always the tastiest, but are required in order to swim fast.
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule, especially this being your Matric year?
To be honest, if I did not swim, I would not manage my matric year. Swimming acts as my stress release and after a good training session, I feel awake and ready to conquer my masses of homework. My academics are very important to me, so I have had to sacrifice some time in the pool, unfortunately. At school, I have had the honour of being Head Girl this year, so therefore my swimming has become even more important to me, because it keeps me level-headed.
Besides your swimming, what do you have a passion for?
I have a passion for leading and helping people who cannot help themselves. I discovered these passions in the last six months through my leadership role at school and through my experiences in hospitals, as I want to become a medical doctor someday.
Tell me one thing about Rachel Stevenson that the world does not know?
I love meeting new people. I feel that each person has something new to teach me.
What do you do to relax?
I read a fictional book or dance.
Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?
My swimming coach, Gerhard Zandberg. His perseverance to continue after a major setback inspired me to keep on going after my setback. He also knows me well,knows how to motivate me and he gives me perspective when the going gets tough.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
“You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the further you get.” – Michael Phelps
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Just take one step at a time.
What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?
Trying to figure out what my plans are for the near future. I have a goal to become a doctor, but I am not finished swimming yet. I am managing this stress, by taking one step at a time. Applying for my degrees is the only thing I can do it wait and see what the Lord has planned for me.
When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?
This is going to sound clichéd, but after a hard training session, I am ready to go again. Being around positive people uplifts my spirits as well.
I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Rachel Stevenson?
Next year my goal is to be studying at TUKS, either a BSc or Medicine. I want to continue competing, and make an international team.
Anything else you would like to share?
I feel like we should not limit ourselves to the expectations of others. It is important to live your life how you want to.
Thank you so much Rachel for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your sports and academic journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!
Next up in our Fresh & Hungry Series is Ruan Ras, SWIMMER and Youth Sports brand name in South Africa, I am so delighted to chat to him. He ranks within the elite top 10 in swimming in SA and internationally for his main strokes. In him I sense so much “joie de vivre”. A friendly, open, eager, passionate, determined, most humble and life embracing young champion. Ruan Ras is also one of SA’s brightest minds, a true young academic master who passed his matric – Class of 2014 with flying colours, having obtained 7 Distinctions – “dit wil gedoen wees”, at Tuks Sport High School! This, amazingly while not slacking off at all on his swimming focus during his matric year. The latter almost unbelievable, but indeed proving a point about the multiple value of sports for our youth, confirming that discipline in one area affects all areas of life.
Ruan is a strong willed, determined and balanced athlete, is a true example of inspiration for many of our youth and for me personally. He is grounded and finds his inner strength and peace by his strong Faith in Jesus Christ. He clearly has a resolve of steel, having overcome cancer in 2011, a true champion in and out of the water. He also has a number of overseas meets under his belt that left him deeply inspired to train harder and aim higher. Ruan hits the grindstone daily as he faces his tough first year at university while diligently continuing his swimming training. He really strikes me as one of those people “who just gets on with the task at hand”. As Nike says – Just Do It!
PS – he is also a foodie of note – Ruan, can we expect a nice “Rassie’s Cookbook” from you in the future?
Read on for this amazing full story:
Interview
You are passionate and doing so well in your swimming, tell me a little bit about how you started in swimming and your journey in the swimming arena up to now?
Being born into a family which is crazy about fitness I have been in the water since I can remember. It was not long until I discovered my passion for the sport and soon started competing in various Mpumalanga galas. In grade 7, I started off at TUKS Swimming with Coach Rocco Meiring, who spotted me through my older sister, Rochelle, who also swam with him. His belief in me is what really, for the first time, stirred my dreams of one day becoming an Olympic swimmer. Since then I have made it a life goal to reach that dream and I am slowly but surely seeing the progress with the help of my current TUKS Coach – Igor Omeltchenko.
Chat with the coach.
What is the highest accolade you have received in swimming, and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?
Placing 5th in the country at last year’s Senior Nationals and finishing 6th in one of my events at the Hong Kong leg of the FINA World Cup 2014.
My greatest personal accomplishment would have to be surviving cancer in 2011. I was diagnosed with burkitt’s lymphoma cancer after spotting a tumor in my stomach. I was out of action for 9 months, but by the grace of God, was able to keep chasing my dreams after being declared clean on January 5th, 2012.
You have travelled outside SA before for swimming. What does travelling do for your mind / perspective on things?
I had my first international competition at the Canet and Barcelona leg of the Mare Nostrum Series last year. I had underestimated the difference between local galas and international meets. When I got there the entire atmosphere around pool deck (as well as the pressure) was heightened. Swimming among many of the greats in the swimming world and watching their races live was an unbelievable learning experience. When I got back to SA, the way I handled myself at local galas had completely changed. The overseas experience definitely gave me a boost of confidence. Racing against the big guys was intimidating, but also showed me how far I still have to go to get to where I want to be – that made me excited to get back into training and to work even harder.
Later last year I competed at the World Cup in Hong Kong, and from what I had learnt I was able to compose myself and handle the pressure much better than before. Huge stepping stone.
Swimming among many of the greats in the swimming world and watching their races live was an unbelievable learning experience.
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule, especially being at University this year?
I won’t lie, balancing Architecture studies and swimming training is quite tough, but staying focused on the bigger goal gets me through every hurdle at the end of the day. When you are doing things you are passionate about, it doesn’t always seem like hard work.
Beside your swimming, what do you have a passion for?
Like I’ve said, architecture is another major passion, as well as sports, fitness and health in general, but I would have to say food tops the list (especially after a Saturday morning training session).
Tell me one thing about Ruan Ras that the world does not know?
I have a secret way of getting through extremely long, high mileage training sessions: I sing underwater while I swim to keep me energized… Probably the reason why I have been asked numerous times “were you shouting underwater…I heard someone shouting?” (don’t tell my coach…)
What do you do to relax?
Is it bad that food is my answer again? Haha! Also, doing anything with family always helps to calm the nerves.
Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?
Naturally, Ryan Lochte and the level he has reached in swimming has and always will act as a motivator for me. But I usually base my role models on the way people live their lives and not only on their achievements. Karin Prinsloo is one of the few who fit that description. Her humble nature despite having achieved so much in her swimming definitely inspires me. Also, her faith and trust in God and the way in which she gives Him all the glory is something to look up to.
Ruan Tweeted: “Tuks Olympian and role model to many @PrinslooKarin crowded by excited young swimmers for her autograph #inspiration”.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
Don’t downgrade your dream to match your reality. Upgrade your faith to match your destiny.
What is your favourite Bible Verse?
Two that got me through 2011: “You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength” – Phil 4.13 and “ ”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29.11
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Do more of what you love and do it for the Lord.
Quiet Moment of contemplation.
What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?
Time management: like I said earlier, trying to juggle academics and swimming. I think it is important to know when you need to keep pushing and when you need to rest. Sometimes rest is the best thing you can do to prevent you from burning out and ultimately giving up. We are not robots – fun is just as important as food and sleep. Read the Bible when you are struggling to cope – it may take some time out of your day, but in the end that’s what will get you through it.
When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?
Spending some time with family. With a hectic schedule, it is vital that you have a strong support system. If possible, quiet time alone with myself and my Bible always does the trick.
Family time is special.
Sisterly love.
I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Ruan Ras?
From here on out, its full blown training and late nights of study ahead. I am keen to see my performances at SA short course nationals in July. The main focus right now is to keep edging closer and closer to the World Champs qualifying times (as a personal goal) with every opportunity I get, so that in a few years, that dream can become a reality.
Anything else you would like to share?
Just a message to other swimmers: swimming isn’t your life. It’s a part of your life. Do your best and work as hard as you possibly can, but don’t take it too seriously. It is much easier to be successful in something which you enjoy doing. Thanks again, God bless.
Thank you so much Ruan for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your sports and academic journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!
Today I am honoured to feature our youngest little Athleticschampion, 7 year old Jessica Jenkinson. So when her mom contacted me, and I read Jessica’s precious story of determination and hope, one question popped up in my mind – are champions born or made? To excel at such a young age, while having so much fun makes me look forward with excitement to follow her journey ahead. This young athlete has defied the laws of medicine, and her story proves the multi -faceted value of sports by the fact that she has overcome heart disease that she was diagnosed with at an early age through being active in various sports. She is no stranger to being number one on the athletics podium, having walked away with many gold medals. She is an all-rounder in individual and team sports. She is a fun loving little girl who loves playing with her school friends and her cats.
Read on to find out more about little Jessica:
Little Miss Determined
Interview:
Who are you, what sport or sports are you passionate about, and in what year were you born?
My name is Jessica Jenkinson. I was born on 21 March 2008 and am 7 years old. Being an active girl diagnosed with several heart conditions at the age of two months, I believe in taking full advantage of every day and have never let any sickness hold me back.
I am active and love all sports. I currently do athletics, netball and hockey, but athletics is my most favorite sport. There I can show my true potential as an individual and can take the credit for my hard work and determination.
All rounder
At what age did you start and why?
I started athletics in pre-primary school when I was only 4 years old and was chosen for our school’s A Team hockey when I was in Grade R. I currently also play netball that was only introduced in Grade 1 in our school. I was hooked on sports. Winning my first athletic race was such a great feeling that I wanted it to last forever.
I started sports because I love exercise combined with competition. It teaches me self discipline and enables me to learn to not only be an individual achiever with athletics but also a team player in group sports. It teaches me to embrace my talents and do the best that I can whilst still enjoying it.
Gold in sight
Would you like to share some highlights about your own sports events so far?
Besides winning 1st Place in all interschool races in 60m and 80m Girls u/07, the highlights were when I got 1st place in Brakpan Schools in the 60m and 80m Girls u/7 and qualified to run for Greater Brakpan.
I also got 1st place in Greater Brakpan in the 60m and 80m Girls u/7 and qualified to run for Gauteng East.
At Gauteng East I got 1st Place in 60m Girls u/07 and 2nd Place in 80m Girls u/07
Gauteng East is the highest competing level for Girls u/07 and look forward to when I can qualify to run for Central Gauteng and the South African team in the next few years to come.
If you were not going to be involved in athletics, what sport do you think you would be involved in?
I am currently involved in all the sports offered at our school of which athletics is my favorite. If I was not involved in athletics I would surely have remained in our school’s netball and hockey teams.
Jessica loves hockey
Tell me a little bit about your home and school life?
I have the best mommy and daddy in the world and have two elder brothers. My oldest brother is in Grade 12 this year and my youngest brother started High school and is in Grade 8. Home is where I feel safe and loved. For me home is the place where I can be myself and would not exchange it for anything. Included in our family are my two cats that I love with all my heart. They are my best friends.
I am currently in Grade 1 in Laerskool Dalview which is an Afrikaans school although I am English. I absolutely love school and my mommy always tells me that knowledge is power and therefore I do my very best in my school work. Being only 7, I must be honest that I do enjoy the breaks and playing with my friends. That is the highlight of my day in school. I also have the best teacher in the school, teacher Annemie De Bruyn. She is a true inspiration for me and thankful to have her in my life.
School, Teacher and precious friendies
Brotherly love
Tell me about what you like to do to relax?
I love playing games on my Ipad and phone when I am not swimming. I love watching TV whilst playing with my two cats.
Relaxing at home
What is your favorite food? And who must cook it?
Spaghetti Bolognaise cooked by my mommy and my grandmother’s Beetroot. J
Who is your sports hero in the sports that you are involved in? What have you learned from him / her?
Usain Bolt is my hero in athletics and I have learned that any dream is possible through hard work and determination. Winners never quit and quitters never win!
Name one person who made a difference in your life?
My mommy. She always encourages me to work harder and be the best sportswoman I can be. She is the one always taking me to my practices and making sure my body has all the fuel it needs to perform well. She will always hug and love me whether I do well or not.
For the rest of the year ahead, what are you looking forward to the most?
I’m looking forward to hockey season starting in winter and then athletics starting in August but most of all Christmas.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
“Winners never quit and quitters never win”.
Thank you so much Jessica for taking this interview. I would like to wish you all the best for the future. I look forward to following your progress and exciting journey ahead. Blessings!
With this post we want to celebrate our 6 month milestone (bornday officially 3 December 2014). We want to say thank you to the wonderful YOUTH SPORTS COMMUNITY comprising of each athlete, parent, coach, friendie, supporter, liker, sharer, commenter, and follower of Heslop Sports!
With the hectic rush of life – we do not make enough time to celebrate the little things. We let them run buy un-noticed. Hitting the pause button, in the spirit of gratefulness and celebration is indeed a necessary ritual needed for consistent progress.
Heslop Sports
This is exactly what I want to do with this post.
FIRSTLY – A SHOUT-OUT TO ANY ATHLETE, PARENT OF AN ATHLETE, COACH, ETC, WE WOULD BE HONOURED TO FEATURE YOU ON THE BLOG. Please make contact with us: howzit@heslopsports.co.za
Secondly I want to remind myself of the touchstone and vision for this Youth Sports Blog:
Heslop Sports is a vibrant, real time Youth Sports Blog aimed specifically at UP-AND-COMING YOUNG ATHLETES within various sports disciplines. The aim is to:
Give a voice to young athletes.
Publish the stories, aspirations, plans, progress, footage, images of up-and-coming young athletes.
Gather and share motivational material for young athletes.
Connect young athletes to each other.
Promote young athletes.
Celebrate and honour young athletes.
Encourage parents and coaches of young athletes to share their experiences in the sports arena.
Ultimately to create a valuable hub of the above information that can be used by athletes, coaches, parents, schools, scouts, sponsors, teams, communities and anybody with a keen interest in YOUTH SPORTS. Let’s remember “not to despise the days of small beginnings”.
We are super excited to be following the progress, plans and exciting journey of the following young athletes, partners and coaches etc. Watch this space for many more athletes who will soon join this Youth Sports Community.
In the spotlight today is the 11 year old Zander Landman, another little champion swimmer to watch out for. Zander is a dedicated young athlete who really enjoys his swimming, arriving at daily swim training with a big smile and eager to hit the water with his buddies, chatting, joking and laughing at the pool deck. This element and fun, joy and camaraderie around sports, especially the so called individual sports vs team sports is such a key ingredient for young children to guarantee sustained interest and progress in the sport.
Zander is proudly Northern Tigers Swimming affiliated and swims for Hillcrest Swimming Club in Pretoria. This young champion is a true star in and out of the water, always does his best and has seen the fruit of his labour many times over with his brilliant results in the pool. He knows how to balance things and makes a special effort to never neglect his academics. He has smashed many records, received provincial colours and represented Team Gauteng in the SA Schools Championships in 2014. I look forward to following his progress as he goes from strength to strength.
Read on to find out more about this splendid young champion:
Proud gold Medalist
Interview:
Who are you, what sports are you passionate about, and in what year were you born?
My name is Zander Landman and I am passionate about swimming. My birth date is 05.08.2003. I am 11 years old.
At what age did you start swimming?
I started swimming at 8 years old. I was like a fish in the water from a very young age. I heard my friends at school say that they took extra swimming lessons and asked my mom to take me as well. That is how I started swimming.
Would you like to share some highlights about your own sports events so far?
I have broken 59 Provincial records when I was swimming for the Vaal Triangle. I have also broken 13 CGA short course records at the age 8 and 9. I have broken 5 Inter Provincial meet records when I represented Vaal Triangle against other Provinces. I missed a record by 0.04s, held by Ryk Neethling when he was 9 years old (that is a long time ago) on the 50m back. That was very close!
I have also achieved Provincial colours for the Vaal Triangle. I was selected to represent the Central Gauteng swim team and the Northern Tigers Swim team. I have also achieved my Provincial Gauteng School colors in swimming.
If you were not going to be involved in swimming, what sport do you think you would be involved in?
I played rugby when I was younger; I think if I did not swim I would have played rugby. I also like cricket and tennis.
Tell me a little bit about your home and school life?
I live with my parents. I have a brother, he is 6 years old and keeps me very busy. I am a pupil at Garsfontein Primary School and I love my teachers and friends. It is an honour for me to represent my school in swimming events.
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
It is very hard work to stay on top of everything. I especially need help when I prepare for a big swimming championship. I rely a lot on my parents to help me plan and to ensure I keep my focus on my academics.
Tell me about what you like to do to relax?
I enjoy cycling with my dad. I also like playing X-box games, watch movies, and just hanging out with friends.
Cycling with my Dad is fun
What is your favourite food? And who must cook it?
I love mac and cheese from Woollies. I like chicken burgers – haha! I love MacDonald’s. My dad is actually a very good cook, I enjoy his food.
Who is your sports hero in the sports that you are involved in? What have you learned from him / her?
My sports hero is Graeme Moore the South African Olympian. I am in the privileged position to call him my friend. We met him when I was 9 years old. Since then I had the opportunity to train with him on a regular basis. He has taught me to be conscious of my body position in the water and to “feel” the water. I really look up to him and hope that one day I will represent my country like he did.
What is your personal favourite Bible verse / motivational quote?
I love this Bible verse, it always encourages me, especially when I am nervous – no matter what the situation.
Isaiah 41:10
‘Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
My favourite swimming quote is:
“The body achieves what the mind believes”.
Thank you so much Zander for taking this interview. I would like to wish you all the best for the Winter Swimming Championships coming up in June / July. I look forward to following your progress and exciting journey ahead. Blessings!
Each time that I interview one of our young athletes in the meet THE YOUNG ATHLETES SERIES, I am honoured and overwhelmed by this new generation of determined youth that I see emerging – it really humbles, inspires and excites me.
Today marks the shift of gears from swimming to Biathle with the young Cayde de Waal taking centre stage. This little champion is currently the #1 Biathlete in gauteng in his age group (he has just recently won the Northern Gauteng Championships). Biathles (at his age) consist of a 500m run – 50m swim – 500m run with transitions in between each leg.
He brilliantly concluded the last two years on a high note when he finished Top 10 in South Africa – wow! Now he is going full force and training hard, aiming for a Top 5 finish this year in June at Buffalo city. He is also proudly the Schools League champion for his district.
Why is it always that the top athletes often also excel at academics? Cayde is a dedicated academic too, being part of the top 15 in his grade (6). This young man is an all-rounder of note taking part in School Athletics (1200m), Cross Country, Biathle, Swimming and next term it will be cricket. Overall he is a happy, loving, family-orientated little boy who simply loves what he does.
Read on to find out more about this splendid young champion:
Proud champion.
All rounder
Interview:
Who are you, what sport are you passionate about, and in what year were you born?
My name is Cayde de Waal, I was born on the 2nd September 2003 and I am really passionate about Biathle.
At what age did you start biathle and why?
I did my first biathle when I was 9 years old. The reason I started biathle was because I was very good at both swimming and running and biathle is a combination of both of these events.
Would you like to share some highlights about your sports events so far?
My definite highlight would be the first time I qualified to take part at the South African Biathle Championships and finished 10th overall.
Little Champion
If you were not going to be involved in biathle what sport do you think you would be involved in?
Soccer or maybe even club swimming.
Tell me a little bit about your home and school life?
I live with my mom, dad and younger sister. I go to Laerskool Dalview which is an afrikaans primary school, even though I am English. I enjoy playing with my friends, especially cricket and touch rugby.
sisterly love
How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?
It is difficult and requires a lot of hard work so I have to listen and work hard when I’m in class. When I get home after school I need to knuckle-down and finish my homework and studies before I can go and train. I definitely do feel that being busy with my sport helps me do better with my academics.
Academic
Tell me about what you like to do to relax?
I like to play TV games and I take my PS Vita everywhere with me. I also enjoy spending time with my friends or watching movies with my family.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite food is Alfredo, especially the one from Pizza Chicken Perfect.
Who is your sports hero in the sports that you are involved in? What have you learned from him / her?
My sports hero is my running coach Justin Opitz. He has taught me that the most important thing is to never give up and never slow down. When you are at your most tired spot during a race, you need to step up your pace just that little bit more and push through.
Apart from (the sports that you are involved in) which other athlete do you admire
AB de Villiers, because he is so talented at so many things.
What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
“You either make dust or eat dust”, H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Thank you so much Cayde for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for the big Championships coming up in June and beyond. We look forward to following your progress and exciting journey ahead. Blessings!
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