About DORINGkloof
SINCE 1978
Where it all began
In December 1976, Coen and Lee Dreyer made the life-changing decision to leave Namibia and settle at 48 Glover Avenue, Doringkloof. Little did they know, their next-door neighbours, Charl and Henriette van Deventer, would play a pivotal role in their new community.
Just a few months later, in March 1977, Charl van Deventer boldly entered the municipal elections, challenging none other than Professor Piet van Niekerk. The results were a triumph for Charl, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for Doringkloof.
Following his victory, Lee Dreyer approached Charl with a vision: "Charl, Doringkloof needs a tennis club." True to his innovative spirit, by the end of 1977, Charl proposed five potential locations for the club. Lee humorously replied, "Charl, the one closest to my house, please!" The ideal spot turned out to be a park nestled between Swarthout Avenue, Jakaranda Road, Tambotie Street, and Deodar Street.
In 1978, Charl kept his promise, and construction of the first tennis court began. The initial membership of the Doringkloof Tennis Club consisted of just ten dedicated individuals. A committee was soon formed, with Frik du Plooy as chairperson, Tienie van Rooyen as secretary, and Lee Dreyer as treasurer.
Charl's unwavering dedication became the backbone of the club, ensuring timely membership fees and minimal expenses, limited to court maintenance and tennis balls. In those early days, members brought their own chairs, refreshments, and snacks, as seating was limited to a few large rocks.
Charl van Deventer & Tannie Lee Dreyer
After approximately two years, the club's popularity soared, necessitating a second court. However, the club faced a challenge—it needed to fund a third of the construction costs, which exceeded the existing budget. During Gideon Ellis's tenure as chairperson, Herman and Janny Broeisma, Dutch members of the club, generously provided an interest-free loan to cover the shortfall. This act of kindness enabled the construction of the second court and led to the relocation of the club's entrance to Tambotie Street.
The next milestone was the creation of a clubhouse, complete with a kitchen, cupboards, and a restroom. Once again, Charl van Deventer stepped in to make this vision a reality.
As the club continued to flourish, the committee expanded to meet the needs of the growing membership. Charl van Deventer was honoured as the club's first Honorary President, a position he held until 1981 when he stepped down, passing the torch to Lee Dreyer. Remarkably, Lee, now 93 years old (as of 2025), remains the Honorary President and a loyal supporter of the club's championships and league matches.
Under Lee's watchful eye, Doringkloof Tennis Club has become the third-largest club in Tshwane. Over the past 40 years, the club has had 15 chairpersons and numerous dedicated members who have continued to serve. Notably, Werner Scholtz holds the record for the longest-serving club captain, with 15 years of devoted service. Theo and Rene Schoch have also been instrumental as long-standing committee members.
The club's legacy is one of love, care, and community spirit. Many members have played well into their 80s, with Tannie Lee Dreyer herself being a shining example.
Today, Doringkloof Tennis Club stands as a testament to the vision, commitment, and camaraderie of its members — a place where the past, present, and future of tennis converge.