From page 19
“Even then we were not playing seriously but I started seeing some videos about this game and I just fell in love with it.
I was still in primary school when I was invited to Battswood so our school didn’t allow us to join at the time.
“I joined in 2017 and went straight to the under-18s.”
Anovuyo was selected to the Western Province junior side in the 2017/18 season and says from there, he knew he had to take his game a step further as he noticed more competition from fellow youngsters.
“When selected for Western Province I noticed that everyone wanted to be the best in the team so I had to improve my game as well,” he says.
Anovuyo is a versatile player who prefers the outfield but has been trusted in the catcher position as well.
He thinks his versatility is what made him catch the eye of both the CTBF and SABU.
“When we played Gauteng in the final of the nationals I was moved from catcher to outfield and there was a lot of activity from my side of the field so I was very busy, the selectors might have noticed me there.
“When I heard my name called I was very happy because playing for South Africa is my ultimate dream.
“Even though the national team has always been my goal, once I get there it might open more opportunities.”
Part of Anovuyo’s struggles is travelling as he always has to find the means to go from Khayelitsha to Goodwood for training.
Besides this, he also has to raise R4 500 to attend the national training camp, which takes place in June.
The youngster says more than travelling and meeting people through the sport, baseball has helped him develop into a better person.
He says he is known as a shy person but realised he needed to be talkative and outgoing in the field which in turn helps him develop relationships easily.
He says baseball is his gateway to success and representing the country in the world cup is only a stepping stone.
“Playing for my country would be a big deal not only to me but to my community as well, maybe that would open doors to other kids in my community.
“I would love to be a positive influence in my community through baseball.”
To help Anovuyo raise funds for the national training camp, contact Battswood secretary, Diedre Marquard at 083 570 0777.