Zane Griesel’s trajectory in golf at tertiary level is not unlike the dimpled projectiles he drives down fairways: precise, measured, and with remarkable distance.
The Madibaz standout claimed the stroke play title at the University Sports South Africa (Ussa) championship at Humewood in Gqeberha, reaching the pinnacle of university golf.
Griesel’s passion began during lockdown at age 15, when playing golf with his uncle became his primary physical activity. Now 20, he has honed his game around two key strengths – length off the tee, averaging around 280m, and long-iron play.
“My distance is definitely a big asset. Anything from a six-iron up just feels really good,” Griesel said. “My short game gets me into trouble more than anything else, so that is something I am working on.”
His lowest competitive round stands at 66 on the Humewood course, which he affectionately calls his second home. Claiming Ussa gold was a significant achievement for both him and Madibaz Sport.
“I’m proud to study here and it’s great to promote Madibaz Golf in this way,” he said. “The goal was to make the biggest impact for the team and I’m glad I could do that.”
Balancing academics and sport has been demanding, yet Griesel credits meticulous planning for his consistent performance.
His friendship with former Madibaz ace JP van der Watt, the 2023 stroke play champion, has influenced his work ethic.
“I’ve seen his work ethic. As I got to know him, I mirrored a lot of what he does – on and off the golf course.”
Griesel emphasizes the mental aspects of the sport as critical.
“It is such a taxing sport mentally; it’s definitely more important than the physical side. Your decision-making and how you bounce back is everything.”
Faith and family provide him with grounding and mental resilience.
“Golf is such a tiny part of life in the bigger picture. That relationship gives me peace and that’s where my mental strength comes from.”
Previously practicing up to eight hours daily, he now focuses on short, strategic sessions, finding it improves his performance.
Even with prior victories, including the 2024 St Francis Bay Classic and representation on Eastern Province U19s and men’s teams, the Ussa triumph remains his career highlight.
Griesel is quick to credit his support network:
- Coach Wiele Rademeyer for guidance on the course
- Club president Karl du Preez and golf manager Theresa le Roux for behind-the-scenes support
- Team captain Tiaan Tibshraeny for leadership and camaraderie
“Our success is because of all these people. They make sure we’re doing the right things,” Griesel said.
At just 20, Zane Griesel has already demonstrated that raw talent combined with discipline, mental resilience, and a supportive network can drive a young golfer to the top of university sport, with the promise of even bigger things on the horizon.
PICTURE: Madibaz Golf team: The Madibaz men’s golf team ended second in the strokeplay and matchplay events at last week’s University Sport SA tournament at Humewood in Gqeberha. The team was, from left, Wiele Rademeyer (coach), Evert Marais, Zane Griesel, Tiaan T
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