The Ruiter Wrestling Club took top honours at this year’s South African Wrestling Federation Youth and President’s National Championships, held in Cape Town, bringing home 18 medals across different age categories.

Held from October 2 to 3, the wrestlers wasted no time making their opponents fall like dominoes and claiming podium finishes. The team of 28 wrestlers saw eight South African champs (gold medals), six silver medalists and four bronze medalists.

According to head coach Dean van Zyl, the Ruiter team also secured the most medals of any club in the Central Gauteng contingent.

“We are proud of every wrestler. We had a strong team, and they all performed exceptionally well.”

Van Zyl added that the sport builds discipline, self-esteem, confidence and respect while giving wrestlers hope for the future.

Giving back to the community

Ruiter also takes pride in giving back to the community as six out of the 28 wrestlers are from St Laurence’s Children Haven, a home offering abused, neglected and abandoned children love and care in a secure environment. These wrestlers earned three gold, three silver and one bronze medal.

Van Zyl said the club has sponsored the home for 15 years to give back to the community and offer the children a life-changing opportunity.

The team is now training and looking forward to the Commonwealth Wrestling Championships.