Unsung heroes behind Westville Bowls Club’s success

Cheryl Waterman

Lionel van Niekerk, club manager and greenkeeper at Westville Bpwls Club, explains: “A lawn bowls club is only as good as its bowlers, and bowlers are only as good as the greens they play on.

“The quality of those greens, in turn, depends entirely on the dedication and expertise of those who maintain them.”

At Westville Bowls Club, this sentiment is not just a saying – it’s a way of life.

The members take immense pride in their immaculate greens, which have been rated among the best in the district by the Green’s Standing Committee, ensuring the club regularly hosts sectional play in Port Natal Bowls competitions.

Behind this achievement are two remarkable individuals, Zenzo Shandu and Musa Zwane, the heart and soul of Westville BC’s greens.

Their meticulous care and unwavering commitment have not only kept the greens in top condition, but have also contributed to the club's competitive success, including the men’s first division league win in 2024.

The story of Zenzo Shandu’s journey with Westville BC began in 1998 when he joined his father, Thulani Shandu, on the green staff.

Under the mentorship of then-greenkeeper Bryan Hart – now the convenor of the National Standing Committee Greenkeepers – and his father, Zenzo learned the intricacies of green maintenance.

His dedication and passion for the craft made him an indispensable part of the club.

When Thulani passed away in 2008, Zenzo initiated the employment of Musa Zwane, passing on his knowledge and ensuring the club’s legacy of excellence continued.

Their bond extends beyond work. Both men are active bowlers at Westville BC, participating in club competitions and league games, with Zenzo easily recognisable by his signature pink bowls – a gift from former SA national team member Gippo Vermeulen.

Their involvement in the sport adds to their understanding of the importance of quality greens.

For Zenzo, working at Westville BC is more than just a job. “The members are our family,” he said.

“Each of them shows Musa and me respect and appreciation for the work we do.”

This sense of community is echoed by Van Niekerk, who praised their work ethic.

“When their work on the greens is done, they can be found maintaining the surrounds of the club. Visitors often remark on how well our greens run, and how impeccable our gardens are,” Van Niekerk shared.

The greens at Westville Bowls Club are more than just playing surfaces – they are a testament to the hard work, passion and pride of Zenzo and Musa.

Their behind-the-scenes efforts enable bowlers to compete at their best, reinforcing the truth in Van Niekerk’s words: a club is as good as their bowlers, who are as good as their greens, which are as good as the people who care for them.

* The PNB trips sectional play will be held this Sunday at various clubs across the district. Section winners will advance to compete on March 1, with the semi-finals and finals scheduled at the host sponsors, Westville Country Club, on March 2.