In the world of cue sport, the spotlight often shines brightest on male players, but the recent trials held in Kouga have highlighted the remarkable skill and talent of the region’s female players.
The trials aimed at selecting the top players to represent the region in upcoming tournaments, and the ladies of Kouga did not disappoint.
Led by seasoned veterans and newcomers alike, the Kouga ladies showcased their prowess on the green baize, displaying precision shots, strategic play, and nerves of steel. From perfectly-executed breaks to impressive bank shots, and delicate safeties, each player demonstrated their dedication to mastering the art of 8-ball.
It wasn’t just individual skill that impressed, it was also the camaraderie and support among the players that truly shone through.
“We may be competitors on the table, but off the table, we’re like family,” remarked Sandra van Schalkwyk, a talented player vying for a spot on the team. “We push each other to be better, and that’s what makes us stronger as a team.”
As the trials drew to a close, selectors faced the daunting task of choosing the final line-up from the pool of exceptional talent on display.
“It’s never easy to make these decisions,” admitted Leon Nel, the chairman of Kouga 8 ball pool and member of the Eastern Cape selection team. “One thing is for certain, Kouga is blessed with some incredibly gifted female players, and whoever we choose I have no doubt they’ll make us proud on the national stage.”
With their skill, determination, and passion for the game, the ladies of Kouga have proven they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of 8-ball pool. As they prepare to represent their region with pride, they serve as an inspiration to aspiring players everywhere, proving that gender is no barrier to success on the green baize.
The ladies who will represent the Eastern Cape in Cape Town at the SA Nationals in April 2024, playing in the A Division, are Jade Bell (BCM), Sandra van Schalkwyk (Kouga), Karla Gouws (Uitenhage-Despatch), Juane Myburgh (Kouga), and Annelise Ferreira (Kouga).
