South Africa’s national synchronised skating champions are calling on the community to help fund their dream of competing on the international stage in 2026.
Gauteng, South Africa (27 November 2025) – South Africa’s 2025 National Champions in the Mixed Age Synchronised Figure Skating division, Team Illusion, are gearing up for their next big challenge! 2026 is around the corner and they will be representing the country at the Riga Amber Cup in February. But achieving this dream comes with a price, and they are reaching out to the community for help.
Synchronised skating is more than just a sport but a blend of teamwork, artistry, discipline, and unity on ice. For Team Illusion, the chance to compete overseas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but covering the costs of flights, visas, accommodation, entry fees, and training requires support beyond the rink.
The all-female, mixed-age team from Gauteng North, coached by Konrad Giering and Lejeanne Hennessy, is captained by Mathilda du Plessis, who describes the squad as a family.
“To me, Team Illusion represents sisterhood, and as captain, it’s an honour to lead a family that carries every weight together and embodies the true spirit of South African skating.”
With their goal set at R500,000, Team Illusion has launched a fundraising campaign through BackaBuddy, inviting friends, families, and supporters across the country to pitch in. Every donation brings the team closer to representing South Africa proudly on the world stage.
Supporters can help by:
- Donating directly through the BackaBuddy page.
- Sharing the campaign with friends, family, and networks to reach more potential backers.
- Partnering as a sponsor to support young athletes.
- Following Team Illusion on social media to keep up with their journey.
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