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Matilda Kokera, a 19-year-old amateur wrestler from Goodwood Wrestling Club, has been chosen to represent South Africa at the African Continental Championships and the African and Oceania Olympic Games Qualifiers in Egypt, which will take place in March.
Kokera, from Lotus River’s Phumlani village, aspires to become the first South African female to represent our nation at the Olympic Games. “Over the past seven years, I’ve poured immense effort and dedication into my craft, achieving significant milestones as a nine-time South African Champion and nine-time Western Province champ,” says Kokera.
Having proudly represented South Africa at international events, including the African Championships in Johannesburg and Casablanca, Kokera is currently the top female wrestler in her weight category within the country. “I have the honour of being selected to represent South Africa at the African Continental Championships and the African and Oceania Olympic Games Qualifier event in Egypt from 14 to 19 March and again from 22 to 24 March, respectively,” she said.
In need of funding
To make this dream a reality, Kokera requires support with an estimated cost of R66 000, covering airfare, accommodation, local transport, team clothing, a competition license, and insurance. “This financial barrier is one that many athletes face, and your generosity as sponsors can make a significant impact,” says Kokera.
Behind every triumph lies countless hours of effort and dedication. Wrestling demands not only physical strength but also mental resilience and unwavering commitment. “Your support will not only fuel my journey but will also recognise the sacrifices and passion invested in this pursuit, says Kokera.
Growing up in Phumlani Village informal settlement, the nine-time SA champion and nine-time Western Province champ started her wrestling journey seven years ago after the Goodwood Wrestling Club opened a hub at the Lotus River Civic Centre.
Goodwood Wrestling Club
She describes her journey, saying: “We saw them wrestling and they kindly invited us to join in.
“They saw consistency and dedication. They found potential in us and eventually asked us if we would like to attend their bigger club in Goodwood.
Simon Abrahams from the Goodwood Wrestling Club adds that Matilda’s success was something in the making, saying: “Everyone at the club is excited about this, she was one of the younger girls who joined us in 2017.
“We are pleading because we don’t want it to come to a stage where she can’t go anymore because of funds.”
Anyone who can donate can contact Matilda on 064 922 7747. Donations can also be made on Matilda’s backabuddy account at https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/matilda-kokera-5812186904019571410
