Parkdene tennis player acing his game

TENNIS NEWS - Raised by Tenjiwe Mgenge, his late grandmother's sister, 15-year-old Onothando "Ono" Makhele from Parkdene has defied his circumstances to become a rising tennis star.

Makhele started playing tennis when he was in the second grade after his teacher from Life Christian Academy took him and other learners to Great Tennis as part of their development programme at the school.

Here his unknown passion for tennis quickly blossomed and today he prepares to make his mark on the international stage after being selected for the SA Schools Tennis team to take part in a tour to the United Kingdom in June.

Ono was chosen for the team after he represented the Eden District in the number one position at the u.15 Interpro Championships in Pretoria earlier this year.

But, not only has he been chosen to represent his country in an exclusive international tour, he will also train at elite Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) academies and compete against top players in the UK. The tour, which takes place from 26 June to 4 July, will see Ono and his teammates participate in competitive matches at renowned LTA academies in Sutton and Bisham Abbey. They will also visit iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, and spend two days at the Wimbledon Championships.

Excited for his first overseas trip, Ono says, "It still feels like a dream. It just shows you that with hard work and commitment, you will see results."

Now a learner at HTS Eden, Ono juggles his school schedule with tennis practice, often staying late to train before heading home on the bus to do his homework. "It wasn't easy, but we managed. I am so proud of him," says Mgenge. "He does well at school," she smiles.

Since the day he first picked up a racket, Ono has been dedicated to tennis, never missing a practice.

Onothando and his doubles partner, Niel Coetzer from Outeniqua High School. Niel is currently the Eden u.15 number one.

According to Mgenge though, fulfilling his dream wouldn't have been possible without Great Tennis and its development programme, for which they are extremely thankful. "I still need to cover his travel and tennis gear costs, but not having to pay for his lessons allows him to follow his dream. Without that, we couldn''t afford it."

After completing school, Ono wants to join a tennis academy in Cape Town.

Those interested in supporting Ono's journey can contact Mgenge on 082 633 7651.

Raised by Tenjiwe Mgenge, his late grandmother's sister, 15-year-old Onothando "Ono" Makhele from Parkdene has defied his circumstances to become a rising tennis star. Photo: Kristy Kolberg