By Phenyo Mokgothu
The North West Sports Awards took place on 18 November, and the North- West University (NWU) scored two top
spots. Onalenna Tsae, alumnus and former coach of the NWU boxing team, clinched the title of Sports Administrator
of the Year.
NWU student and a netballer of note, Elmeré van der Berg, walked away with the Sportswoman of the Year award. Onalenna’s accolade recognises her contributions, in particular her pivotal role in the women’s commission of the North West Provincial Sport Confederation. Currently serving as the deputy secretary
general of the South African National Open Boxing Organisation, she plays an important role in ensuring the smooth operation of the organisation.
Besides her administrative duties, she actively manages the day-to-day affairs and has successfully established a thriving Boxing Academy in the province. “When I joined boxing 12 years ago, I never imagined leading a national body or receiving an award. I am truly humbled by the confidence my province has shown in me through this significant token of appreciation,” says Onalenna.
The lanky Elmeré has reached spectacular heights in her young career. She has earned several Player of the Tournament awards and represented the Proteas during the locally held Netball World Cup.
She also excelled in the Spar Protea Diamond Challenge and the Netball Quad Series. This formidable goal shooter will also be part of the Protea squad traveling to Australia at the end of November
