Representing the u/18 Eastern Province team at the Bowls South Africa National Championships in Bloemfontein recently, 15-year-old Nicah Boshoff achieved a major milestone by helping his team secure a bronze medal.
This incredible achievement comes just two years after Boshoff took up the sport as a hobby shared with his father, Michael Boshoff.
“It’s been an incredible experience,” Nicah told the PE Express last year. “Lawn bowls is so much more competitive and strategic than many people imagine – it’s like chess, snooker, and maths all rolled into one. I love the strategising, the gameplay, and the social side of it all.”
Lawn bowls has quickly become a core part of Nicah’s life, offering a source of joy and focus as he manages a long-term medical condition, chronic encopresis. “Bowls allows me to focus on something I enjoy and excel at,” he added.
Nicah’s father, Michael, who serves as both his coach and biggest supporter, expressed his pride in his son’s achievement.
“All the hard work – hours of practising and sacrifices – has been worth it,” Michael said. “Despite the challenges Nicah has faced, watching him help his team win a medal is a moment I’ll never forget.”
The PE Express previously reported that due to a long-term illness, Nicah has been home-schooled since 2019.
He suffers from chronic encopresis due to the fact that his colon did not develop properly.
He has been hospitalised five times in the last three years, because of this. In bowls he has found a sport that he enjoys, and in which he excels, and it takes his mind off his condition.
This allows Michael to work his son’s practice schedule out accordingly.
Last year, his mother, Juanita, shared her overwhelming joy.
“When I found out he’d made the u/18 squad, I cried with happiness. Every hour of effort he’s put in has paid off.”
The family also credited the Mill Park Bowling Club for their support in Nicah’s journey.
“It really does take a village to raise a great bowler, and our club has been incredible,” concluded Michael.
