World Domination
Expressed as a joke, world domination is the ironic nature of Hendri’s humble perspective. Media and fame were unimportant, but his philosophy for the best day ever endures. With his passing there is an immense ripple effect. If you knew him for five minuets or five years you will want to share his story. Was it all part of his plan for World Domination?
Hendri Coetzee Award for Expedition of the Year
Many remarkable expeditions are embarked on each year, from backyard exploring to remote International expeditions. These are often the most impressive stories in kayaking. A Rider of the Year award is given to the expedition felt to be the most compelling, ground breaking, or exploratory and is awarded in honour of our friend and whitewater legend, Hendri Coetzee. Hendri died this year while passionately pursuing a life worth living. Memory of his passion, determination, drive and boldness will live on.
Kadoma Tennis Trophy
As tennis coaches in Centurion, we (Marinus and Liesl Potgieter) work daily with children between the ages of 5 and 18. After hearing Hendri’s story, we realised that the youngsters can learn a lot from his legacy.
It is not often that people live their dreams and passions. It is so clear from watching Hendri that he found himself exactly where he wanted to be. We believe that by providing children the opportunity to discover their true passion, more will be given the chance to be successful in life
The Kadoma Trophy was created to acknowledge the hard work (often under adverse circumstances) young individuals dedicate in reaching their goals. We hope that by telling Hendri’s story, we can inspire people to never give up and follow their dreams.
The first person to receive this Trophy is 17-year-old Frans Ledwaba. Frans has worked extremely hard and made large sacrifices to excel in his game. In Grade 7 he was chosen for the South African Schools Team to play tennis in Egypt. In Grade 11 he was chosen again to play in England, but did not have the means to fund the tour. His dream is to study in America with a tennis scholarship.
p.i.n.e Project, Best Day Ever Fund
Andrew McMartin - Toronto, Canada
Hendri inspired me in ways that few others have. I’ve been lucky to have met him, and lucky I paid attention to his example. Because of how much he influenced my life, I’ve committed to one day creating a scholarship fund dedicated to Hendri and how he lived his.
At the p.i.n.e. project, we take kids out and teach them about the real world. About wind and rain,
and snow, and plants and animals. We learn together about community, and the value of relationships. We tell stories that teach and inspire. Hendri’s story teaches and inspires.
So the Best Day Ever Fund is another dream that will one day be realized. It doesn’t exist yet, but we’re taking steps towards it. Hendri’s story will inspire and support children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience their best day ever, to get that chance.
