Sport at the Italian Club
Olympia Football Club
Founded in 1949, Olympia Football Club boasts a rich legacy, highlighted by its 1965 rise into South Africa’s professional ranks . Today, Olympia thrives at the amateur level across a comprehensive football structure:
• Little League (U6–U9): Mondays & Wednesdays, 17:00–18:30
• Junior League (U10–U17):
• U10–U11: Mon & Wed, 17:00–18:30
• U12–U15: Tue & Thu, 17:00–18:30
• U17: Tue & Wed, 18:00–19:30
• Ladies League (U19–Seniors): Contact for training times
• Veterans League (45+): Contact for training times
• Senior League (U19–Seniors): Tue & Thu, 19:00–21:00
• SAB League (U19–Seniors): Contact for details
All leagues are overseen by convenor Giovanni Di Benedetto. Olympia FC offers a full football pathway from toddlers to veterans, including a women’s section and a Castle-level team, all united by the motto “Nurturing Talent, Creating Stars.” 
Olympia’s modern chapter includes a recent affiliation with Italian side AC Reggiana 1919—promoting coach development and European tournament exposure—and a Hollywood Bets Regional League venture bringing semi-pro competition to Bedfordview.
Training runs February to October, with junior registration open now.
For more information please see below links for Olympia F.C.
Contact: Giovanni Di Benedetto
Contact no: 082 610 7933
Instagram: Olympia F.C.
Facebook: Olympia Football Club Page
Website: olympiafootball.co.za
Cardinal Aquatics Swimming Team
Led by Olympian‑turned‑coach Doug Erasmus, the Cardinals Swimming Team at the Italian Sporting Club is fast becoming a launchpad for top-tier talent. Doug, who competed for South Africa in the 2016 Olympics, took over the program in January 2023 and has grown it from just five swimmers to over 60 dedicated athletes .
Under Doug’s skilled guidance, rising stars like Jessica Thompson and Matthew Caldwell have earned selection for South Africa at events such as the World Aquatic Championships . Their success is proof that passion plus expert coaching delivers results.
Want to get in on the action?
Contact: Doug Erasmus – 083 327 5111
Visit us during any swim session and see the training in full swing.
Learn more at cardinalaquatics.co.za
HRT Tennis Academy
Experience high-performance tennis coaching right here in Bedfordview, led by Trystan van Rie, the driving force behind HRT Tennis Academy.
Coach Trystan van RiepeRiese to the Club’s tennis section, helping players at all levels reach their full potential.
Coaching Highlights
Trystan’s Impact
Known for his unmatched passion and expertise, Trystan has elevated the Italian Sporting Club’s tennis quality. One recent post celebrated, “the tennis courts at Italian Sporting Club are alive with energy, and it’s all thanks to the amazing coaching of Coach Trystan van Rie!” 
Rising Stars
Among his accomplishments is rising talent Stefano Russos, who has made waves at the 2025 Junior Nationals in Bloemfontein—“Rising Star Alert! Stefano Russos from our very own HRT Tennis Academy…” 
What You Can Expect
• Structured coaching for all ages and abilities—whether you’re starting out or competing.
• A focus on high performance, tactical development, and match preparation—proven by Stefano’s success at national level.
• A welcoming, energetic environment—courtesy of Trystan’s spirited teaching style and dedication ().
Connect & Get Started
Instagram: @HRT_Tennisacademy 
Coach Trystan van Rie: 064 249 9261
Top Shot Cricket Academy
Join us for 2026
We officially opened our doors on Monday, January 13, 2025, for what promises to be an action-packed year. With a team of CSA-certified coaches, we cater to all skill levels and ages, focusing on developing every aspect of a player’s game. Our high-performance training models are designed to help aspiring cricketers realize their potential, whether they’re starting their journey or looking to refine their skills at the highest level.
Join Topshot Cricket Academy and take your cricketing dreams to new heights.
For more information, contact us at topshotcricket@rocketmail.com or 0823251299.
Keep an eye out for photos and highlights on our official platforms.
Boccedromo
Experience piazza vibes right in Bedfordview!
Led by the passionate Sabatino Minucci, the bocce sessions at the Italian Sporting Club blend camaraderie, strategy, and light-hearted competition. Whether you’re a seasoned player or rolling your first ball, it’s all about fun, community, and Italian flair on the gravel courts. The Club itself has been a thriving hub of Italian-South African heritage and sporting excellence since 1949.
Get involved!
Contact: Sabatino Minucci – 083 303 5632
Just pop in on bocce days—no fuss, no formatting, just good spirits and great rolls!
