The versatile young Gqeberha sports star Kylie Klaasen is making waves in the world of netball and athletics.
At just 15 this Grade 10 Framesby learner has already achieved more than many her age.
Klaasen’s selection for the South African u/16 netball squad stands out as one of her proudest achievements so far.
Competing against, and alongside, the nation’s top talent was an experience she cherishes. The selection followed after she represented the East Cape in the national tournament which was held in Boksburg earlier in the year.
She describes this experience as “absolutely amazing.”
“The matches didn’t always go our way,” she admits, “And there were times when it was hard to regain my confidence, but when I heard my name in the national squad, I was over the moon with excitement.”
Kylie excels in the goal attack position, and her approach to the sport is humble and teamfocused.
“I think, as a player, I sometimes care more about others than myself.
“I will always play with a smile because netball is my passion. I enjoy every moment of every match.”
Her ability to accept criticism with grace, while never giving up until she gets it right, is what she considers her strength.
“I’m coachable and determined,” she explains.
Her journey with netball started early, in Grade 1, when her father, Dewald, encouraged her to take up the sport. He has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation in Klaasen’s life, guiding her in all her sporting endeavours.
“I’ve been sports crazy since I was little and my parents (Dewald and Karin) are my biggest supporters,” she says.
Klaasen’s training routine is intense and disciplined. She practises netball every day, whether with her school team or on her own.
“I make sure to score at least 300 goals daily, come rain or shine, even on days when there’s no official practice.”
Netball isn’t the only sport where Kylie excels. She also competes at provincial level in athletics and biathlon.
High jump is her speciality, although she recently discovered a love for triple jump, which led her to the South African Championships last year.
“Biathlon has been part of my life from a young age, though it’s not my favourite because I’m not much of a swimmer. Still, I manage to qualify for EP every year, and last year I went to the SA Championships,” she said.
Balancing academics with her demanding sports schedule is a challenge, but Klaasen has developed a strategy to ensure she stays on top of her schoolwork.
“I try to get as much work as possible done during school hours. I use any free time for homework and never miss a day of school.”
Klaasen has her sights set on even greater achievements in the future.
“My next goal is to make the first netball team at my school and challenge for EP colours every year. And, of course, I dream of playing for the Proteas one day.
“As for athletics, my ultimate goal is to compete in the Olympics, but if that doesn’t work out, I hope to become a high jump coach,” said Klaasen.
