Mitchell's Plain's Martheze claims All Africa Blackball Championship

From the pool tables of Woodlands, Mitchell’s Plain, to the top of African cue sport, Shaun “The Jaguar” Martheze has written a new chapter in his blackball journey by claiming the All Africa Blackball Singles Championship in Durban.

The 21-year veteran cueist defeated fellow Mitchell's Plain resident Harry Martin 7-4 in the final after battling past strong opponents from Zimbabwe and Zambia, while also helping team South Africa secure gold in the team event with a 13-5 victory over Tanzania.

For Martheze, who began playing pool in 2005 at New Woodlands, the journey started when he first cut his teeth in eight-ball with the Thunderball club before switching to blackball in 2014, drawn by the discipline, strategy, and mental strength required at the highest level.

Now representing South Africa internationally and the Western Cape provincially, the Mitchell’s Plain player is also a member of the Cape Town-based Mushroom Men club, established in 2021 and already regarded as one of the city’s strongest teams.

The All Africa title was far from straightforward. Martheze entered the tournament managing a back injury, and focused on rest and mental preparation rather than heavy training.

"My preparation was focused more on managing my physical condition and relying on my experience rather than overtraining, as I am currently dealing with a back injury. I prioritised rest and mental readiness going into the tournament.

"The toughest moments were not necessarily the opponents but managing the physical pain while competing under pressure. It tested my resilience and mental strength throughout the event," said Martheze.

"The most defining moment was the final, where I faced a fellow South African teammate and good friend who is also originally from Mitchell’s Plain."

The All-Africa crown adds to a proud international record that includes nine appearances for South Africa. Wearing the green and gold, he says, remains one of the greatest honours of his career.

Attention now turns to the South African National Championships at Suncoast Casino in Durban this April, where Martheze will again represent the Western Cape.

"I am looking forward to competing at the highest national level and continuing to represent my province with pride, where, if I'm selected for the South African team, we will be going to the World Championships in England later in the year.

"I am also planning a tour to Namibia mid-year to compete with their best and a bit of a break away. I remain open to invitations for tournaments both locally and abroad," he said.

Beyond competition, the champion is also focused on giving back. He plans to offer free coaching to young players across Cape Town, particularly in communities with limited opportunities, hoping to inspire the next generation of cue sport talent.