DATING IN SPORT – THE GOOD AND THE BAD

Miné Fourie 

@mine.fouriee

 

The dating game is a challenge on its own, but trying to date a teammate is a whole other issue. When couples compete on the same team, there is little separation between their personal and professional lives. Training, travelling and socialising together can strengthen bonds and connections. While this is great for growing in a relationship, it also means there is very little time for cooling off periods and space to be alone. 

   

The pressure of peers can also influence how relationships in sport are handled. Opinions from teammates and coaches are not always ideal when you are trying to get to know someone in a romantic way. Lara Henning from Wanda Dameskoshuis’s Sport HC explains that sport can sometimes be an escape for students when they struggle with a relationship because it offers a support system when you want to forget about your relationship problems. 

 

Jealousy and competitiveness can also sometimes creep into a relationship – even if they are unwanted. When one partner performs better than the other, it can create tension that will be difficult to put aside during practice or games. 

 

Conflict becomes more complicated when there is no real escape from the environment. Disagreements off the field can easily spill into training sessions or matches, affecting not only the couple but also the overall team dynamic. Teammates may feel uncomfortable or forced to take sides, which can disrupt a team and lead to a decline in teamwork and performance.

 

Despite these challenges, dating a teammate has its advantages. Sharing the same goals, routines, and understanding of the sport can create a strong foundation built on mutual respect. When handled with maturity and clear boundaries, such relationships can thrive, proving that while the dating game in sport is complex, it is not impossible to navigate successfully. 

 

Our own NWU tennis power couple, Lienke Badenhorst and Johannes Adam, both ranked second from the beginning of the year, gave insight about their relationship and how it affects them mentally and emotionally. “I think I benefit from having a relationship with someone in the same sport as me, because he gives me advice and will always be honest about my performance. He motivates me to be the best version of myself on and off the court, and that is something that is very special to me.” She also states that because they have the same goals in sport, it is a bonding experience for them both.

 

Johannes shares that he likes it when Lienke is next to the court when he is playing because the type of motivation he gets from her is stronger and more personal because of their connection. He trusts her advice because he knows that she only wants the best for him and vice versa. 

 

So next time when you have a crush on a fellow teammate, think about the effect it will have on you and your team and if the person is really worth it. If it was up to Lienke and Johannes, give it your best shot.

 

A couple in tennis are competing in mixed doubles (Source: Olympics).

Lienke and Johannes in 2025 after winning the USSA tournament in Bloemfontein (Source: Lienke Badenhorst).

 

Edited by Isabel Burgers