STELLALANDER-TLAKGAMING: Tlakgaming Tennis Club celebrated 60 years from humble beginnings to a thriving community hub.
November 2024 marks a significant milestone for the Tlakgaming Tennis Club as it celebrates 60 years of promoting tennis, camaraderie and community spirit.
Founded in November 1964 by a group of Tlakgaming Farmers’ Association Tennis enthusiasts, the Club’s inaugural chairman, George Fletcher, and first club captain, Ted Harvey, laid the foundation for what would become a beloved institution. Amongst others, farmers such as, Len Lee, Henry Harvey, Roland Tarr, Carey Lee and Eddie Harvey spearheaded the club in various positions over the years.
The only remaining club member from the initial founding group is Winnie Harvey, who also served as secretary for 29 years. Three other remaining founding members, watching the club’s evolution from a distance, are Etta Lee, Josephine Harvey and Margaret Harvey. From its modest beginnings, with two cement courts and an annual subscription of R4 per player, Tlakgaming Tennis Club has truly flourished over the years. Today the club has four all-weather courts, a modern clubhouse and 53 members. Through its six decades, Tlakgaming Tennis Club has hosted numerous tournaments - sponsor days being a big hit - and fostered lifelong friendships. Under the leadership of Chairman Bart Seevinck and club captain William Harvey, the club continues to thrive. Bart said, “We are honoured to build upon the legacy of our founders. Our success stems from our community-orientated members.” To commemorate the 60th milestone, the club hosted an anniversary celebration. Along with the regular weekly tennis, there were also fun games for young and old alike, followed by members being served a delicious meal, overseen by the long serving food committee convener, Elmarie Lee.
As Tlakgaming Tennis Club celebrates 60 years, its dedication to tennis and community remains unwavering. “We look forward to many more years of serving aces, forging connections and creating memories,” said club captain William Harvey.