After a Year of Uncertainty More of the Same? Features

THE MAGAZINE FOURTH EDITION | 2021

PLAYING OVERSEAS, IS IT FOR YOU?

FH UMPIRES: THE HOME OF THE FIELD HOCKEY UMPIRE AFTER A YEAR OF UNCERTAINTY MORE OF THE SAME? FEATURES

WHAT’S INSIDE

5 Feature SA Country Districts – It’s more than Hockey

8 Feature FH Umpires: The home of the Field Hockey Umpire

11 Feature After a year of uncertainty – More of the same?

14 Tribute Tribute to Fabian Gregory 08 17 Feature Community is rallying together to help SA Men’s Hockey achieve Tokyo 2021 dream!

21 Health Hints 14 Weightlifting

23 Feature Mike Bechet

25 Feature Tick tock Tamlyn Kock

27 Feature Playing overseas, is it for you?

32 Feature Ryan Hack is back

34 Feature John Paul - The complete player

38 General news

39 Gallery 27

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE hockeythemagazine.co.za

Editor Tyron Barnard [email protected]

Design OTM Marketing otm.marketing

Advertising Rachel du Plessis +27 83 278 0777 [email protected]

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

TYRON BARNARD

is not just underway, its fully edged, its happening and in many ways it feels like it’s a sequel to 2020. The Hockey World has been heavily in uenced by delays, which have been felt here in South Africa. The likes of the Masters, 2021Indoor IPT and a host of test matches fell victims to the pandemic. But slowly and surely there has been an element of return to play. The SA Hockey Men and the SA Hockey Women were both in various camps which Hockey the Magazine was able to attend, while Cindy Hack joined Eastern Gauteng for a coaching clinic at Woodlands College. Of course, there was the launch of the Johannesburg Hockey League which was great to witness as kids got back on the turf. In the Netherlands they have been back in action for a while despite a snow delay, and Austin Smith took the opportunity to bag his 100th Hoofdklasse goal for Den Bosch. The Olympian shares with us this issue as the player editor, sharing his thoughts on whether going overseas is for you or not, including talking about the incredible sacri ces that you make in the quest for hockey glory. Mike Bechet is pro led in this edition a er a career which has in uenced numerous schoolboys to reach the green and gold while Chris Rembe pro les the incredible career of Jody Paul. Regular contributor Garreth Ewing takes us through the challenge of the Men’s game, while James King takes a deeper look into SACD through Gary Carsons. In this month’s edition we also pro le the superb Keely Dunn of FHUmpires who has taken the importance of the third team to the next level. Her creation of content throughout lockdown including pro ling some incredible umpires was a testament to the superb work she is doing in developing the game. As always, we are incredibly thankful to you the reader. Our game has a number of incredible and inspirational stories that have deserve to be told. Previously these stories have had a limited audience and we are pleased to be able to tell them to as many of you as possible. Our goal has always been to tell as many stories as possible, expose as many writers as possible and to li the game of hockey. We believe that four issues in we are achieving that in spite of the pandemic. Hockey is a special sport. Its our duty to provide it a special platform.

Hockey the Magazine. Feel it. It is here!

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 3 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

TYRON BARNARD is not just underway, its fully edged, its happening and in many ways it feels like it’s a sequel to 2020. The Hockey World has been heavily in uenced by delays, which have been felt here in South Africa. The likes of the Masters, 2021Indoor IPT and a host of test matches fell victims to the pandemic. But slowly and surely there has been an element of return to play. The SA Hockey Men and the SA Hockey Women were both in various camps which Hockey the Magazine was able to attend, while Cindy Hack joined Eastern Gauteng for a coaching clinic at Woodlands College. Of course, there was the launch of the Johannesburg Hockey League which was great to witness as kids got back on the turf. In the Netherlands they have been back in action for a while despite a snow delay, and Austin Smith took the opportunity to bag his 100th Hoofdklasse goal for Den Bosch. The Olympian shares with us this issue as the player editor, sharing his thoughts on whether going overseas is for you or not, including talking about the incredible sacri ces that you make in the quest for hockey glory. Mike Bechet is pro led in this edition a er a career which has in uenced numerous schoolboys to reach the green and gold while Chris Rembe pro les the incredible career of Jody Paul. Regular contributor Garreth Ewing takes us through the challenge of the Men’s game, while James King takes a deeper look into SACD through Gary Carsons. In this month’s edition we also pro le the superb Keely Dunn of FHUmpires who has taken the importance of the third team to the next level. Her creation of content throughout lockdown including pro ling some incredible umpires was a testament to the superb work she is doing in developing the game. As always, we are incredibly thankful to you the reader. Our game has a number of incredible and inspirational stories that have deserve to be told. Previously these stories have had a limited audience and we are pleased to be able to tell them to as many of you as possible. Our goal has always been to tell as many stories as possible, expose as many writers as possible and to li the game of hockey. We believe that four issues in we are achieving that in spite of the pandemic. Hockey is a special sport. Its our duty to provide it a special platform.

Hockey the Magazine. Feel it. It is here! FEATURE

he ink had hardly dried on the email to Gary Carson, Tradition President of the SA Country Districts Hockey Asso- There is that moment in a sportsperson’s journey when you know ciation, when the detailed response came through. you’ve “made it”. The hours of training, personal and family sacri- One senses this is the mark of a man who has an ce, punishing your body and straining your nances to breaking intimate knowledge of an organisation and a sport point all seem worth it. For SACD hockey people the proud mo- which he has served for over 30 years. ment when you put on your blazer for the opening function, and T don it again for the end of tournament dinner, are such moments. A Rich Heritage The tradition is also evidenced in the Gri on Club. The club was The history of SACD Hockey extends prior to Gary’s involvement. established in 1991 by a few founder members with the aim that at Founded in 1957, the organisation didn’t always have the pro le each tournament, prospective nominees would be evaluated and, that it does today. It started with the smaller district and minor if found to meet the criteria, would be accepted into the club. provincial associations sending teams to an annual tournament. The qualifying criteria were initially having attended at least 3 The SACD team chosen from this would then play invitational SACD tournaments (now 5). The main criteria are then checked, games. mainly looking at what the player contributes to hockey o the It wasn’t until the late 1990’s that the SACD Men’s team started eld of play. The aim was to encourage people to promote and playing in the Inter-provincial tournament (IPT). They have an grow hockey o the actual playing eld. enviable record in the tournament, with the Men’s team topping Evidence of past, current and continued involvement via coach- the B section once in their history, and nishing 2nd in the B sec- ing (a hockey coach at a school would not qualify as this was his tion of the last 2 tournaments in 2018 and 2019. job), umpiring and growing umpires, executive positions in a club/ Whilst the Women’s SACD Hockey only started with their tour- district/province, are considered. Provided this o - eld work was nament in the 1990’s, they are a constant challenger in the B sec- found to be worthy then the nominee was accepted into the club tion of the IPT. and then recognized publicly at the nal dinner at SACD. Both the Men’s and Women’s SACD tournaments are held an- As Chairman of the Gri on Club, Gary humbly recognizes that nually, from which the SACD composite teams are chosen to rep- without the weeks, days and hours put in by its members and pro- resent SACD at the IPT. Logistics only allow them to meet as a spective members, SACD hockey as we know it could not be sus- team the day before the tournament. Despite this, they produce tained. high quality hockey, proudly ying the banner for SACD hockey at their respective tournaments. Covid-19 and Sustainability It is the annual SACD tournaments themselves that provide Sustainability has faced a number of challenges with the the fundamental ethos that is SACD hockey. Covid-19 pandemic. Not least the cancellation of the 2020 SACD tournaments, and the threat to both the Men’s and Wom- Camaraderie en’s tournaments this year. They come from as far a eld as Bushbuck Ridge, Kokstad, To maintain momentum for the teams, a number of vir- Tweespruit and the heart of the Karoo, Beaufort West. In the tual interactions were planned and implemented during the Men’s game, at least 220 players from all over South Africa de- time of the 2020 event. The over-arching impression is that the scend on the chosen venue for the SACD tournament. They have SACD leadership will ensure the opportunity will be available been given the opportunity to play in a “fun tournament with for both teams to fight once again for the top spot in the B serious hockey”, as Gary puts it. Section. The selection rules have changed over the years. Whereas the The future looks bright. Firstly, Gary explains that SACD initial attendance at SACD may have been the minor provinces, hockey is a breeding ground for latent or missed talent. “The the tournament now does have lower-tier teams from some of the SACD tournament is that tournament for the better than aver- bigger provinces. The criteria are clear though. This is no “sec- age player but not the elite player. We have had people in var- ond-chance saloon”. Players wear their SACD blazers with pride, ious capacities come to the SACD tournament and then grow and put their all into the matches on the eld. and progress into a provincial IPT side” There is a welling of his chest as the President explains what Secondly, he encourages those in the further reaches of makes SACD di erent. He talks freely of the sportsmanship, the South Africa to get out there and follow their hockey dreams. recognition, the tradition of teams sitting together a er a hard- “If there is no hockey where they are, then start a club. Grow fought game. It’s more than hockey, with a major highlight being and promote hockey. By doing this everyone who does this “the camaraderie that is, and has, built up within the SACD com- will ensure that the game we love continues to thrive. Good munity”. work will always be rewarded.”

Community Acknowledgement and Recognition There is a massive sense of community that surrounds SACD Celebrating success is key for SACD hockey. Recognition is par- Hockey. Players attend multiple tournaments over many years, amount. Acknowledgement of selfless sacrifice for the good of o cials and o ce-bearers are involved for decades. A core team the game is part of its DNA. of approximately 20 people spend a signi cant amount of time Legendary figures like Reg Sansom, Danie Liebenberg, Gary every year planning and executing the SACD tournament. Carson, Mike van Reenen, Nigel Leverton and Ryan Ashton are SA COUNTRY The President of SACD hockey is justi ably proud of what the embodiment of this. Ailsa Blignaut, a recent inductee into these volunteers achieve. They are also trend-setters, as SACD the Griffon Club and Chairperson of SACD Women’s hockey, is tournament player awards have been adopted by the SAHA IPT. another. Over its most recent past, the tournament has become more se- What makes SACD hockey so special? It could be a blazer rious in terms of the focus on quality hockey. This has not come laden with tournament pins. Perhaps the fanfare of bagpipes at the expense of the social and community nature of the tourna- for the tournament winners. Even the soon-to-be urban leg- DISTRICTS ment, as the teams continue to mix socially for the course of the ends shared long into the tournament nights. The camarade- week they are together. rie on and off the field. The friends you make. The goals you – IT’S MORE THAN HOCKEY If the quality of the organizing and the hockey, and the fun of score, or the ones you save. It may be all of these. sharing stories with old friends were not enough excuses to be One thing though remains abundantly clear; SACD hockey by James King part of this community, then the traditions play a huge part. is more than hockey.

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 5 FEATURE

6 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE @planethockeysa FEATURE

FH UMPIRES: @planethockeysa THE HOME OF THE FIELD HOCKEY UMPIRE by Catarina dos Santos

8 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE he umpire community all has clearly made a massive impact in the over the world knows her hockey world and has caught the eye of name and what she stands many umpires, coaches and players. She for. Keely Dunn of FH Um- has also created different, inexpensive pires has created a home memberships that any umpire can sign for field hockey umpires up for and receive perks and training. Teverywhere; where all umpires, young “Not only is this a great platform for and old, new and experienced, will be spectators but also for players, coaches celebrated, supported and mentored. as well as any ‘up and coming’ umpire” FH Umpires is a platform that umpi- says Michelle Joubert of South Africa, res, players, coaches and even spectators winner of the 2015 FIH Female Umpire of can use to engage and interact with top the Year Award. “She [Dunn] has a mag- umpires, players and coaches during dis- nificent way of linking each scenario for cussions and interviews that Keely Dunn discussion through the eyes of the res- runs herself and streams on Facebook pective person that she is interviewing, and YouTube. Having been an interna- ultimately showing how differently the tional umpire herself, Keely is knowle- game is perceived or how different the dgeable and passionate about umpiring. situations may seem from different pers- In addition to that, she is fierce and pectives. Clearly a lot of hard work and unafraid when tackling topics that mi- many hours of working with her team ght be difficult to discuss. “I think she and the rest of the hockey community has a wonderful platform to discuss rele- goes into this and it has allowed her to vant and current issues.” Says Kathleen deliver quality service to hockey. Perso- Faling, who is the umpire manager at nally, I think it’s been amazing to see how the U16 Inter-Provincial Tournament in she has brought top level individuals to South Africa. “She allows people to ask her discussions. No matter how sensitive all sorts of questions relating to the wor- or difficult the interpretation of a speci- ld of umpiring and answers fairly and fic scenario might be, the discussion is honestly. She is also not afraid to stand done with respect and we, as internatio- up for the umpire.” says Faling. Dunn is nal umpires, have the opportunity to see known amongst many an umpire for her how coaches think or feel about certain willingness to help and the unapologe- rules and the application of the rules. It’s tic manner in which she supports and amazing to see that if you have passion mentors umpires from all walks of life. for the game, it takes hard work to get to “I want to ‘claim’ an umpire who may the top of any area you choose to pursue be struggling and say ‘Hey, you’re mine your dream in and that we are all human now and I care about you and I will help it’s about being part of one thing – the you.’” says Keely Dunn. love of the game.” says Joubert. “I had the worst tournament of my FH Umpires is going from strength life in the Dominican Republic and af- to strength, creating the much needed ter that experience, I figured that the- link between all levels of umpires, coa- re might be umpires all over the world that felt that way I did and needed to be ches and players. The platform aids in mentored and supported.” said Dunn. “I making sure the interpretation of rules saw a gap in the system and knew I could being the same throughout the hockey fill it with a platform like FH Umpires.” community worldwide. Keely went on further, describing the “Umpires also need mental support. importance of being able to discuss your Knowing that someone is there for them worries and concerns as an umpire with takes a lot off of their shoulders. When someone who has the experience and I get a message from an umpire saying knowledge. She takes a more personal that their tournament went well or that approach to this and takes the time to they finally understood the interpre- respond to messages from the many um- tation of a rule, it makes me so happy.” pires who reach out. Dunn also allows Says Dunn. umpires to interact in a live chat and “Much effort and preparation go into comments section of her live streams these interactive sessions and this makes and is open to the submission of topics the forum very credible. It’s an interna- that others might think are important to tional forum and promotes better um- discuss. She uses clips from matches to piring and better understanding of the discuss specific issues related to topics game.” Says John Wright of South Africa, and often has top umpires and players winner of the 2017 FIH Male Umpire of join her on live streams to discuss spe- the Year Award. cific issues which allows those following “I always tell people that I was too to see a different perspective to many stupid to quit.” says Dunn when asked complicated situations. how why she didn’t quit when her ex- “Keely is doing a great job providing periences became difficult. “I knew it the ‘go-between’ for umpires, young and was on me to take responsibility for my Umpires also need old, to have a platform where they able umpiring mistakes during that game in mental support. to get expert advice and to listen to cur- the Dominican Republic and I did. I cou- rent International Umpires, players and ldn’t help but feel lonely afterwards and Knowing that someone coaches about the rules and the issues I knew that there were probably umpires that exist around the interpretation of out there feeling the way I felt.” is there for them most of those rules.” says Peter Wright, Keely Dunn boldly and valiantly con- takes a lot off of their FIH umpire from South Africa. tinues to inspire, innovate and celebrate Dunn, who lives in Calgary, Canada, the field hockey umpire. shoulders.

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 9 J O I N he umpire community all has clearly made a massive impact in the over the world knows her hockey world and has caught the eye of name and what she stands many umpires, coaches and players. She for. Keely Dunn of FH Um- has also created different, inexpensive pires has created a home memberships that any umpire can sign for field hockey umpires up for and receive perks and training. Teverywhere; where all umpires, young “Not only is this a great platform for and old, new and experienced, will be spectators but also for players, coaches celebrated, supported and mentored. as well as any ‘up and coming’ umpire” FH Umpires is a platform that umpi- says Michelle Joubert of South Africa, T H E res, players, coaches and even spectators winner of the 2015 FIH Female Umpire of can use to engage and interact with top the Year Award. “She [Dunn] has a mag- umpires, players and coaches during dis- nificent way of linking each scenario for cussions and interviews that Keely Dunn discussion through the eyes of the res- runs herself and streams on Facebook pective person that she is interviewing, and YouTube. Having been an interna- ultimately showing how differently the tional umpire herself, Keely is knowle- game is perceived or how different the dgeable and passionate about umpiring. situations may seem from different pers- In addition to that, she is fierce and pectives. Clearly a lot of hard work and unafraid when tackling topics that mi- many hours of working with her team ght be difficult to discuss. “I think she T H I R D and the rest of the hockey community has a wonderful platform to discuss rele- goes into this and it has allowed her to vant and current issues.” Says Kathleen deliver quality service to hockey. Perso- Faling, who is the umpire manager at nally, I think it’s been amazing to see how the U16 Inter-Provincial Tournament in she has brought top level individuals to . South Africa. “She allows people to ask her discussions. No matter how sensitive all sorts of questions relating to the wor- or difficult the interpretation of a speci- ld of umpiring and answers fairly and fic scenario might be, the discussion is honestly. She is also not afraid to stand done with respect and we, as internatio- up for the umpire.” says Faling. Dunn is nal umpires, have the opportunity to see known amongst many an umpire for her how coaches think or feel about certain T E A M willingness to help and the unapologe- rules and the application of the rules. It’s tic manner in which she supports and amazing to see that if you have passion mentors umpires from all walks of life. for the game, it takes hard work to get to “I want to ‘claim’ an umpire who may the top of any area you choose to pursue be struggling and say ‘Hey, you’re mine your dream in and that we are all human now and I care about you and I will help it’s about being part of one thing – the you.’” says Keely Dunn. love of the game.” says Joubert. “I had the worst tournament of my FH Umpires is going from strength OMMUNITY life in the Dominican Republic and af- to strength, creating the much needed ter that experience, I figured that the- link between all levels of umpires, coa- re might be umpires all over the world that felt that way I did and needed to be ches and players. The platform aids in . C mentored and supported.” said Dunn. “I making sure the interpretation of rules T saw a gap in the system and knew I could being the same throughout the hockey 400+ Video Clips fill it with a platform like FH Umpires.” community worldwide. Keely went on further, describing the “Umpires also need mental support. importance of being able to discuss your Knowing that someone is there for them 3 Membership Levels worries and concerns as an umpire with takes a lot off of their shoulders. When someone who has the experience and I get a message from an umpire saying knowledge. She takes a more personal that their tournament went well or that approach to this and takes the time to they finally understood the interpre- 1 Growing Umpires’ Community respond to messages from the many um- tation of a rule, it makes me so happy.” pires who reach out. Dunn also allows Says Dunn. umpires to interact in a live chat and “Much effort and preparation go into What Are You Waiting For? comments section of her live streams these interactive sessions and this makes . SUPPOR and is open to the submission of topics the forum very credible. It’s an interna- that others might think are important to tional forum and promotes better um- discuss. She uses clips from matches to piring and better understanding of the discuss specific issues related to topics game.” Says John Wright of South Africa, and often has top umpires and players winner of the 2017 FIH Male Umpire of join her on live streams to discuss spe- the Year Award. cific issues which allows those following “I always tell people that I was too to see a different perspective to many stupid to quit.” says Dunn when asked complicated situations. how why she didn’t quit when her ex- “Keely is doing a great job providing periences became difficult. “I knew it the ‘go-between’ for umpires, young and was on me to take responsibility for my Umpires also need old, to have a platform where they able umpiring mistakes during that game in mental support. to get expert advice and to listen to cur- the Dominican Republic and I did. I cou- FIND OUT MORE: rent International Umpires, players and ldn’t help but feel lonely afterwards and Knowing that someone coaches about the rules and the issues I knew that there were probably umpires that exist around the interpretation of out there feeling the way I felt.” is there for them MENTORSHIP most of those rules.” says Peter Wright, Keely Dunn boldly and valiantly con- takes a lot off of their FIH umpire from South Africa. tinues to inspire, innovate and celebrate Dunn, who lives in Calgary, Canada, the field hockey umpire. shoulders. @FHumpires www.fhumpires.com/htm Photos by: Rayder Media / Hockey India FEATURE

ebruary ____, 2020. The and July. All of this will be subject to last time the SA Men’s team Covid limitations and the ongoing bud- played a test match. The get challenge. The need for competition fourth game against Ger- to ne tune and improve match tness many, subsequently cance- is key to the team being competitive in led a week later, is memo- Tokyo. Training will only take us so far. Frable not only for the disappointment of Calendar congestion has mounted as losing out on the xture (due to a facility the Junior Africa, Indoor Africa and Ou- malfunction), but also because it was tdoor Africa World Cup quali er dates around that time a mysterious virus cau- move, again. Considering the overlap be- sing problems around the world started tween the various squads this will exert come to the forefront of conversation. real pressure on the player group as they About a month later South Africa and try to manage hockey priorities as well the World locked down. as their everyday work and family sche- 2020 is history, although its impact dules. The balancing act between the lo- will be felt for years to come. Since the cal, African and global calendar is a real disappointment of an Olympic postpone- challenge. ment, the Men’s squad has been making Covid has highlighted the structural the most of things, and we gratefully re- and organisational de ciencies in many turned to the training ground in August areas of life. The split between the ho- last year. ckey haves and have-nots has been em- Cultural growth through the magic phasised in similar fashion. Those that of Zoom, and a squad who have worked can have locked themselves away and hard on their conditioning have been po- trained at full intensity throughout the sitives drawn from the lockdown, but as crisis. Others have drawn on their con- we look towards 2021 what can hockey at siderable resources and modi ed their the highest level expect? programmes to continue international The bad news, in many respects, competition, and even club leagues, seems to be more of the same: The Sum- through all but the worst of the pande- mer test match events in Cape Town were mic. An already wide performance gap canceled due to the impact of Covid’s is now increasing, and South Africa is second wave. But while the European now rmly in the category of teams just teams are now settling into a modi ed doing their best to keep things going at FIH Pro League schedule international this stage. hockey in South Africa is still rmly on The next four months of preparation hold. will be crucial. If we secure competition The squad is fresh from regional and settle into a routine that includes training camps, designed to ll the gap more than just conditioning and training in contact between players and coach. in isolation, then hopefully some mo- While the sessions gave a good impres- mentum can be built leading into Tokyo. sion on where everyone is at, as well as There is optimism that local leagues will valuable opportunities to engage with se- resume in March and April, giving athle- lectors and coaching sta , they were not tes increased hockey volume and ball an ideal replacement for international contact. competition. The IOC has committed to the Olym- The question remains, what will the pics, although as athlete handbooks spe- 2021 season, in terms of international ll out it remains to be seen exactly what competition, speci cally Olympic prepa- the event will look like. Participants have ration, look like? been encouraged to vaccinate if it’s avai- The last article I submitted to Hockey lable in their home country. What the The Magazine, described with much ex- rest of us are supposed to do is not yet citement the schedule put in place for clear. Hockey has at least quali ed and the SA Men leading up to Tokyo and on we will be spared the stress of nding a to the African Cup for Nations World safe competition window to book a spot Cup quali er. But it had to be pulled due at the Games. to the changes forced at short notice by Best case: Four international series fresh Covid restrictions and the threat in 3 months, training at a host town in to player health imposed by the second Japan before entering the Village to play wave. more practice matches and complete Planning for 2021 has already gone acclimatisation, tested regularly (maybe beyond ‘Plan C’ and my worry is that vaccinated), Covid and injury free. we’ll run out of letters of the alphabet Worst case: The third wave strikes AFTER A YEAR OF The question remains, before we get on the plane to Japan. and our preparation schedule is cance- what will the 2021 So where are we now? Post-regional led. Arrive at the Village days before we training, a team will be selected and sub- compete and we start the tournament season, in terms mitted for rati cation by Saha and Sas- simply hoping for the best. UNCERTAINTY – coc. Another, nal, round of HP training Either way the team will be in Tokyo of international commences in March while the players as prepared as circumstances allow, and competition, also continue with their monitored con- ready to give their best for Team South ditioning programme. Africa. The hope is that nances are in MORE OF THE SAME? specifically Olympic As far as competition goes, there is place, administrators are empowered to discussion with three opponents for se- put the athletes rst and, above all, that preparation, look like? ries and practice matches between now Covid plays ball. by Garreth Ewing

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 11 Photos by: Rayder Media / Hockey India FEATURE

12 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE

TRIBUTE

TRIBUTE TO FABIAN GREGORY by Marissa Langeni & Gary Dolley

14 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE Hockey is sho- and the SA ‘A’ Mens Manager. He served cked and sad- various national teams noticeably as the dened by the coach of the SA u17 and u18 Boys, SA u21 sudden passing Women and the Assistant Coach of the of the multi-ta- SA Women. In 2014 he made a switch lented Fabian and was appointed the National Mens SAGregory. Fabian excelled as an all-round Coach. As a coach he represented SA sportsman at school, representing Bor- at different international competitions der at Athletics, Baseball, Cricket, Foo- with his best highlights being the Africa tball and Hockey in various age group Cup and Olympic Qualification events of teams. His leadership attributes saw him 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2015, the Womens in a role as captain in his school Hockey World Cups of 2006, 2010 and 2014, the and Cricket teams. Junior Womens World Cup of 2009, the He obtained national school colours Commonwealth Games of 2010 and 2014, in Hockey and Cricket in the SACOS era. and the Olympic Games of 2008 and 2012. Fabian achieved provincial hockey co- Fabian was presented with his FIH lours for both Border and Western Pro- Coach certificate in 2016, this is the hi- vince. ghest level of FIH Education. The well-liked Fabian qualified as a In 2016 Fabian took up an opportuni- teacher and quickly got involved in coa- ty to coach in Hong Kong at club level ching at school and club level. He em- and was eventually appointed at as the braced the challenge of achieving his Hong Kong National Mens Coach a roll coaching qualifications in both hockey he fulfilled until his untimely passing. and cricket, which afforded him the Fabian was highly regarded in Afri- chance to grow as a coach and to take up can Hockey circles and was always coaching opportunities in both sports in willing to impart & share his knowledge various provinces. with other African Hockey coaches. He Fabian took on the position of Coa- was highly regarded within the interna- ching Education Manager at SA Hockey tional hockey coaching arena. in 2008. He was instrumental in the re- He made a huge impact on the stan- Fabian was highly viewing and restructuring of the SA Ho- dard of coaching within South Africa & ckey Coach Education Scheme, which Africa and has been attributed by many regarded in African became the cornerstone of the current players at all levels as the biggest in- SA Hockey Coach Education Framework. fluence in their hockey development. Hockey circles and Given his background in Education, Fa- The tributes seen since his passing was always willing bian excelled as the lead coaching faci- speak volumes about the passion he had litator and coaching manager that coor- for the game, his special ability for talent to impart & share dinated the SA Hockey & Dutch Hockey identification and his mentorship role coach education exchange programme. for both coaches and players alike. his knowledge with Fabian took on national opportuni- We pay tribute to Fabian Gregory to- other African Hockey ties as a highly qualified coach himself day and express our sincere condolences from as early as 2004 when he took on to his son Jamie, his family, his friends coaches. the role as Assistant Coach of the SA/u19 and the hockey community at large.

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 15 Hockey is sho- and the SA ‘A’ Mens Manager. He served cked and sad- various national teams noticeably as the dened by the coach of the SA u17 and u18 Boys, SA u21 sudden passing Women and the Assistant Coach of the of the multi-ta- SA Women. In 2014 he made a switch lented Fabian and was appointed the National Mens SAGregory. Fabian excelled as an all-round Coach. As a coach he represented SA sportsman at school, representing Bor- at different international competitions der at Athletics, Baseball, Cricket, Foo- with his best highlights being the Africa tball and Hockey in various age group Cup and Olympic Qualification events of teams. His leadership attributes saw him 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2015, the Womens in a role as captain in his school Hockey World Cups of 2006, 2010 and 2014, the and Cricket teams. Junior Womens World Cup of 2009, the He obtained national school colours Commonwealth Games of 2010 and 2014, in Hockey and Cricket in the SACOS era. and the Olympic Games of 2008 and 2012. Fabian achieved provincial hockey co- Fabian was presented with his FIH lours for both Border and Western Pro- Coach certificate in 2016, this is the hi- vince. ghest level of FIH Education. The well-liked Fabian qualified as a In 2016 Fabian took up an opportuni- teacher and quickly got involved in coa- ty to coach in Hong Kong at club level ching at school and club level. He em- and was eventually appointed at as the braced the challenge of achieving his Hong Kong National Mens Coach a roll coaching qualifications in both hockey he fulfilled until his untimely passing. and cricket, which afforded him the Fabian was highly regarded in Afri- chance to grow as a coach and to take up can Hockey circles and was always coaching opportunities in both sports in willing to impart & share his knowledge various provinces. with other African Hockey coaches. He Fabian took on the position of Coa- was highly regarded within the interna- ching Education Manager at SA Hockey tional hockey coaching arena. in 2008. He was instrumental in the re- He made a huge impact on the stan- Fabian was highly viewing and restructuring of the SA Ho- dard of coaching within South Africa & ckey Coach Education Scheme, which Africa and has been attributed by many regarded in African became the cornerstone of the current players at all levels as the biggest in- SA Hockey Coach Education Framework. fluence in their hockey development. Hockey circles and Given his background in Education, Fa- The tributes seen since his passing was always willing bian excelled as the lead coaching faci- speak volumes about the passion he had litator and coaching manager that coor- for the game, his special ability for talent to impart & share dinated the SA Hockey & Dutch Hockey identification and his mentorship role coach education exchange programme. for both coaches and players alike. his knowledge with Fabian took on national opportuni- We pay tribute to Fabian Gregory to- other African Hockey ties as a highly qualified coach himself day and express our sincere condolences from as early as 2004 when he took on to his son Jamie, his family, his friends coaches. the role as Assistant Coach of the SA/u19 and the hockey community at large. FEATURE

outh Africa’s Men’s Hockey says the move to team up with the Men’s team have started a bid to rai- hockey team is inspired by his team’s com- se funds to head to Tokyo 2021 mitment to continue shaping the future of with Matchkit.co partnership South African sports. and crowdfunding campaign… “Our purpose is to help athletes better and the community is rallying commercialise their careers,” he said. “In Sto help! 10 months, we’ve created partnerships The South African Men’s hockey team with Red Bull, South America’s 6 rugby is pulling out all the stops to make their playing nations and the USA Olympic Tokyo 2021 Olympic dream a reality swimming team, but the project most clo- during a di cult nancial climate for the se to our heart is SA Men’s Hockey. federation. “They are fully transformed with 50% The team has been boosted by a part- black team members at player level and nership with award-winning platform, 60% black representatives at management Photos by: Hockey India Matchkit.co, to further commercialise level, yet there is still zero support from and grow their brand as they step up their SASCOC. We are o ering our tech up for preparation for the showpiece expected to free to help the hockey team raise the R3. be held in July this year. Mathckit.co has 5-5m to get them to Tokyo. We know sport enabled the team to set up a crowdfunding can change lives, and we are committed campaign, with a plea to all corporates, to seeing every colour and creed of South fans and the public to get behind the team African represented on the global stage.” as they look to raise the 3.5 million Rands The Men’s squad features an exciting needed to ful l their Olympic dream. blend of experience, youth and diversity, a Team Head coach, Garreth Ewing, says glowing representation of the talent South the partnership will give the players and Africa has to o er. Rising goal-keeper Siya sta a vital commercial boost in a sporting COMMUNITY Ntshulunga – who currently juggles a full- code that has struggled for support. -time job while living his dream- hopes the “We are running a highly professional platform will grow his pro le as he looks environment with very little nancial su- for sponsorship opportunities. IS RALLYING pport,” he explained. “All of the teams who “It is very di cult nding sponsorship are ranked above us on the rankings have full-time resources, including players and opportunities, so any platform that can sta . All of our players and sta have full- help grow my pro le and brand will be TOGETHER -time jobs; every bit of support will go a bene cial towards getting that support,” long way. he said. “We are ranked 14th and the goal is for “The challenges of working full-ti- us is to play the top six teams in the wor- me, playing sport and representing your TO HELP SA ld to test ourselves against the best. We country is never an easy task; it comes have been invited to a few tournaments with great responsibility. It comes with overseas in preparation for Tokyo, but the sacri ces, from waking up extra early in challenge remains the ability to meet the the morning to push yourself in training MEN’S HOCKEY nancial demands required of us to par- to then ful lling your KPI’s at work during ticipate. the day. “Getting to the Olympics is a dream “Not many people have the opportuni- come true, especially considering how ty to represent their country, so we have ACHIEVE TOKYO di cult it is to qualify. We have done the to make sure we make the most of all the hard work and deserve to be there; it wou- opportunities and resources we get. I’m so We are ranked 14th and ld be heart-breaking if we are unable to go. thankful to Matchkit for o ering us this We hope as many bene ciaries as possible platform; I hope the supporters will get 2021 DREAM! the goal is for us is to play will come out in support of our dream,” he behind us,” he concluded. concluded. Interested bene ciaries can pledge the top six teams in the Matchkit’s growth since its launch in their support for the South Africa’s Men’s world to test ourselves June 2020 has given athletes unpreceden- Hockey team on the crowdfunding link ted access to a growing global digital en- on the pro le below: https://matchkit.co/ against the best. vironment. Co-founder, Mike Sharman, springdog.

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 17 FEATURE

18 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE GROUP A GROUP B ARGENTINA AUSTRALIA BELGIUM CANADA INDIA JAPAN GERMANY GREAT BRITAIN NEW ZEALAND SPAIN NETHERLANDS SOUTH AFRICA

24/07 JAPAN VS. AUSTRALIA 24/07 NETHERLANDS VS. BELGIUM 24/07 NEW ZEALAND VS. INDIA 24/07 GREAT BRITAIN VS. SOUTH AFRICA 24/07 ARGENTINA VS. SPAIN 24/07 CANADA VS. GERMANY 25/07 INDIA VS. AUSTRALIA 25/07 SOUTH AFRICA VS. NETHERLANDS

25/07 JAPAN VS. ARGENTINA 26/07 GERMANY VS. BELGIUM 25/07 SPAIN VS. NEW ZEALAND 26/07 GREAT BRITAIN VS. CANADA 27/07 ARGENTINA VS. AUSTRALIA 27/07 GERMANY VS. GREAT BRITAIN 27/07 INDIA VS. SPAIN 27/07 BELGIUM VS. SOUTH AFRICA

27/07 JAPAN VS. NEW ZEALAND 27/07 NETHERLANDS VS. CANADA 28/07 JAPAN VS. SPAIN 29/07 BELGIUM VS. CANADA 28/07 AUSTRALIA VS. NEW ZEALAND 29/07 SOUTH AFRICA VS. GERMANY 29/07 INDIA VS. ARGENTINA 29/07 NETHERLANDS VS. GREAT BRITAIN

30/07 AUSTRALIA VS. SPAIN 30/07 CANADA VS. SOUTH AFRICA 30/07 JAPAN VS. INDIA 30/07 GERMANY VS. NETHERLANDS 30/07 ARGENTINA VS. NEW ZEALAND 30/07 BELGIUM VS. GREAT BRITAIN QUARTER FINALS 01/08 1ST GROUP A VS. 4 TH GROUP B 01/08 1ST GROUP B VS. 4TH GROUP A 01/08 2ND GROUP A VS. 3RD GROUP B 01/08 2ND GROUP B VS. 3RD GROUP A SEMI FINALS 03/08 WINNER QF 1 VS. WINNER QF2 03/08 WINNER QF 3 VS. WINNER QF 4 SEMI FINALS 05/08 GOLD MEDAL MATCH 05/08 BRONZE MEDAL MATCH GROUP A GROUP B GERMANY GREAT BRITAIN ARGENTINA AUSTRALIA INDIA IRELAND CHINA JAPAN NETHERLANDS SOUTH AFRICA SPAIN NEW ZEALAND

24/07 NETHERLANDS VS. INDIA 25/07 AUSTRALIA VS. SPAIN 24/07 IRELAND VS. SOUTH AFRICA 25/07 JAPAN VS. CHINA 25/07 GREAT BRITAIN VS. GERMANY 25/07 NEW ZEALAND VS. ARGENTINA 26/07 NETHERLANDS VS. INDIA 26/07 AUSTRALIA VS. CHINA

26/07 SOUTH AFRICA VS. GREAT BRITAIN 26/07 ARGENTINA VS. SPAIN 26/07 GERMANY VS. INDIA 26/07 JAPAN VS. NEW ZEALAND 28/07 NETHERLANDS VS. SOUTH AFRICA 28/07 NEW ZEALAND VS. SPAIN 28/07 GREAT BRITAIN VS. INDIA 28/07 JAPAN VS. AUSTRALIA

28/07 GERMANY VS. IRELAND 28/07 ARGENTINA VS. CHINA 29/07 GREAT BRITAIN VS. NETHERLANDS 29/07 SPAIN VS. CHINA 30/07 SOUTH AFRICA VS. GERMANY 29/07 JAPAN VS. ARGENTINA 30/07 IRELAND VS. INDIA 29/07 NEW ZEALAND VS. AUSTRALIA

31/07 INDIA VS. SOUTH AFRICA 31/07 CHINA VS. NEW ZEALAND 31/07 GERMANY VS. NETHERLANDS 31/07 JAPAN VS. SPAIN 31/07 IRELAND VS. GREAT BRITAIN 31/07 ARGENTINA VS. AUSTRALIA QUARTER FINALS 02/08 1ST GROUP A VS. 4 TH GROUP B 02/08 1ST GROUP B VS. 4TH GROUP A 02/08 2ND GROUP A VS. 3RD GROUP B 02/08 2ND GROUP B VS. 3RD GROUP A SEMI FINALS 04/08 WINNER QF 1 VS. WINNER QF2 04/08 WINNER QF 3 VS. WINNER QF 4 SEMI FINALS 06/08 GOLD MEDAL MATCH 06/08 BRONZE MEDAL MATCH HEALTH HINTS If you are an athlete and aren’t using the Olympic weightli ing movements in your training, then you may not be realizing your full athletic potential. Regardless of the sport you play, weightli ing movements and their derivatives o er a host of bene ts to take your game to the next level. Will sprinting faster and jumping higher help you dominate your competition? Do you need to add lean body mass or decrease fat mass to optimize your body composition for peak performance? Are you intri- gued by the idea of naturally increasing your serum testosterone level? Do you have any movement restrictions or you could you use a little more exibility in just about every major joint in your body? If the acquisition of any of these attributes is what you are a er, then grab your chalk, li ing shoes, and get to your closest li ing platform because it is time to start weightli ing.

BETTER QUALITY OF MOVEMENT If sprinting faster, jumping higher, improving body composition, and enhancing your hormonal pro le still isn’t convincing enough, weightli ing will also help you move better. As a sport, Olympic weightlif- ters are second only to gymnasts in exibility tests (Jensen, C., Fisher, G. 1990). Good weightli ing encourages full ranges of motion in just about every major joint in the body, all the while yielding improvements in ba- MORE lance, coordination, and kinesthetic sense (Hedrick, A., Wada, H. 2008). Motor learning has shown us that this is in fact true when it comes to POWER technical skill acquisition. It is not o en an individual’s lack of understanding of what they need their body to do when executing a technical Sprinting and jumping are fundamental tasks of many sports, and better skill. Rather impaired biomechanics due to exibility limitations are of- performance in these abilities are o en the prevailing distinctions be- ten a common cause of technical ine ciency (Muratori, L.M. et. al 2013). tween better and worse athletes. While there are many inherent genetic Overall improvements in exibility and athletic coordination through factors that dictate your ability, these characteristics are still trainable. weightli ing will ensure restricted motion will never be the reason for The major mechanisms that improve sprint and jump ability are similar, an inability to execute proper technique in your chosen sporting skills. and enhancing lower body strength and power is the best way to elicit improvements. Long term investigations into weightli ing demonstrate enhanced lower body strength, generally measured through 1-repetition maximum back squat testing (Tricoli et al. 2005). Infact some studies have demons- WRAPPING UP trated that the inclusion of weightli ing movements increase back squat If you are now on board with the bene ts of adding weightli ing strength to a greater extent than traditional strength training alone (Hof- movements to your training plan but are apprehensive to get star- fman et al. 2004). ted due to the technical requirements of the li s, just relax. You Author: Shilo Ramdin Lower body power development may even be more critical than stren- can yield many of the same bene ts by rst starting with wei- Owner & Head Trainer gth for enhancing sprint and jump abilities. Power is the product of force ghtli ing derivatives. at Strength Society and and velocity, and you will be hard pressed to nd any exercises more ef- If you aren’t comfortable doing a clean, start with a clean pull. Performance Coach fective than the clean, jerk, snatch, and many of their derivatives at ma- If you can’t gure out the snatch starting from the ground, try ximizing both variables to yield the highest power outputs (Suchomel et starting from the mid-thigh or knee. If you don’t yet have the coor- al. 2015). dination to perform a split jerk, start with a simpler push jerk. The clean and snatch are likely the most popular weightli ing move- Rome was not built in a day, and nor will your weightli ing te- ments, but in fact the dip and drive portion of the jerk has been shown to chnique. produce more power than the second pull of the clean or snatch (Garham- However, technical mastery and athletic development are not mer, 1980). Many studies have substantiated the positive e ects on verti- dependent. Technique may always be a work in progress, but cal jump, and short sprint performance through the use of weightli ing athletic development will begin immediately. movements (Hackett et al. 2015; Ho man et al. 2004; Tricoli et al. 2005). WEIGHTLIFTING EIGHTITING

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 21 HEALTH HINTS If you are an athlete and aren’t using the Olympic weightli ing movements in your training, then you may not be realizing your full athletic potential. Regardless of the sport you play, weightli ing movements and their derivatives o er a host of bene ts to take your game to the next level. Will sprinting faster and jumping higher help you dominate your competition? Do you need to add lean body mass or decrease fat mass to optimize your body composition for peak performance? Are you intri- gued by the idea of naturally increasing your serum testosterone level? Do you have any movement restrictions or you could you use a little more exibility in just about every major joint in your body? If the acquisition of any of these attributes is what you are a er, then grab your chalk, li ing shoes, and get to your closest li ing platform because it is time to start weightli ing.

22 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE ike Bechet is the sort Things like mental attitude and a cultu- nior Natal side (1991-92) to interprovin- of coach who makes re of no excuses play a huge role. I look cial titles and was the convenor of the administrators squirm for guys with big hearts, the capacity to South African selection panel for both but is adored by his train hard and who live a good lifestyle. the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. players, for the same I always advise my players to surround Bechet has even excelled in the world reason – the great pro- themselves with winners from whatever of umpiring, having an SA III grading and ducerM of schoolboy talent is renowned for eld. having blown the 1987 and 1988 SA U18 being straightforward and honest, and as “Basically I want to develop good IPT nals. passionate about the game as anyone. people, that’s what really counts for me, It was out on the park where Bechet, Bechet’s fame was made at Maritzburg and you want them to continue playing. who considers himself a schoolmaster College, where 21 future senior interna- Unbeaten seasons don’t ll me with much rst and foremost, rst began honing his tionals and 74 SA U18 caps have passed pride, I get more pride out of developing coaching skills. through his hands since 1982. Since 2015 international and provincial players. “Hockey was always my passion and he has been at Jeppe High School in That’s the bigger picture that I’m a er. being coached by people like Darryl Bes- Johannesburg and his impact is clear. He And it’s incredibly humbling to stay in tall, Alan Paton, Tony Godding and Brian may be coaching the U16A team, but it is touch with a lot of my former players who Edwards, I was exposed to so much coa- no coincidence that Jeppe have become a have made it big. ching wisdom. I used to pick their brains dominant force in South African school- “They all come back to me and that’s while I was playing, I was taking in infor- boy hockey, being the top-ranked team in the rewarding bit, to have an in uence mation all the time I was out on the eld. both 2018 and 2019. And there have been on people’s lives. I accept that I’m not In July 1981 I began employment at Ma- a couple more SA Schools caps coming everyone’s cup of tea, but if you can han- ritzburg College and I have always said through his pipeline. dle discipline and train hard then you I’m a schoolmaster not a teacher, because Among the more recent internatio- will ourish under me,” Bechet says. I teach phys ed and I coach sport,” the nals Bechet coached at school are Tevin One only has to spend ve minutes on 65-year-old says. Kok, Tyson Dlungwana, Tommy Ham- the side of a sports eld with Bechet to Von Mayer, who has followed in Be- mond, Siya Nolutshungu, Taine Paton, know that it is obvious he hates losing, chet’s footsteps as a schoolmaster coa- Peabo Lembethe and Matt Guise-Brown. but he is more than willing to embrace ching hockey, albeit further in the heart Before the recent era, Proteas such as Ste- the tough lessons that defeat can impart. of the KZN Midlands at Michaelhouse, ve and Iain Evans, Grant von Mayer, Ryan “One does actually learn a lot more says it was only when he was a student Shrives, Darren Gallagher, Charl van der from losing, especially kids,” Bechet says. that he realised the key to Bechet’s suc- Merwe and Gareth Carr all graduated un- “And knowledge is power and I do read a cess. der Bechet’s coaching. lot. Sports books like the autobiographies “Bech really gets the best out of people And this is not to mention the impact of people like Jose Mourinho, Pep Guar- because he gets you to play for something Bechet has had on cricket in this country, diola, Rod McQueen, Eddie Jones, they other than yourself. O en you end up as coach of the Maritzburg College 1st XI were all hard guys. My approach is cer- playing for him. for 572 games, he had a major hand in the tainly that you must be all-in or not at all.” “That’s because he brings a system and development of Jonty Rhodes and David A product of Durban High School, Be- an organisation to the game, that comes Miller, as well as one Kevin Pietersen, chet studied at both Rhodes University from the fact he was a ne player him- MIKE BECHET who played for England. He was an SA and UCT. He has a BA Honours in Physi- self. He demanded that you do things to by Ken Borland Schools and SA U19 selector from 2008 to cal Education and an HDE and has twice improve your skills. When I talk to other 2020. been the recipient of the South African coaches now in the di erent fora, they’re Bechet’s coaching approach could be Hockey Association’s President’s Award all like him now. So Bech has spawned a described as “tough love” and the former for services to hockey, in both 2005 and whole lot of new coaches who continue parabat has always been more interested 2010. his approach”. in the character of his charges than in Bechet has seen all sides of the ho- Mike Bechet has already had a mas- their skills. ckey realm – as a player he represented sive impact on South African hockey, “I like to pick guys who absorb infor- Eastern Province, Western Province and and the good news is that in uence will mation and who have good character, I the champion Natal side, as well as being continue through his legacy – the young value that above skill. You can teach so- capped for the SA U21s in 1976. He has men he coached now becoming mentors meone skill but you can’t teach character. coached Natal Schools (1989) and the se- themselves.

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 23 FEATURE ike Bechet is the sort Things like mental attitude and a cultu- nior Natal side (1991-92) to interprovin- of coach who makes re of no excuses play a huge role. I look cial titles and was the convenor of the administrators squirm for guys with big hearts, the capacity to South African selection panel for both but is adored by his train hard and who live a good lifestyle. the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. players, for the same I always advise my players to surround Bechet has even excelled in the world reason – the great pro- themselves with winners from whatever of umpiring, having an SA III grading and ducerM of schoolboy talent is renowned for eld. having blown the 1987 and 1988 SA U18 being straightforward and honest, and as “Basically I want to develop good IPT nals. passionate about the game as anyone. people, that’s what really counts for me, It was out on the park where Bechet, Bechet’s fame was made at Maritzburg and you want them to continue playing. who considers himself a schoolmaster College, where 21 future senior interna- Unbeaten seasons don’t ll me with much rst and foremost, rst began honing his tionals and 74 SA U18 caps have passed pride, I get more pride out of developing coaching skills. through his hands since 1982. Since 2015 international and provincial players. “Hockey was always my passion and he has been at Jeppe High School in That’s the bigger picture that I’m a er. being coached by people like Darryl Bes- Johannesburg and his impact is clear. He And it’s incredibly humbling to stay in tall, Alan Paton, Tony Godding and Brian may be coaching the U16A team, but it is touch with a lot of my former players who Edwards, I was exposed to so much coa- no coincidence that Jeppe have become a have made it big. ching wisdom. I used to pick their brains dominant force in South African school- “They all come back to me and that’s while I was playing, I was taking in infor- boy hockey, being the top-ranked team in the rewarding bit, to have an in uence mation all the time I was out on the eld. both 2018 and 2019. And there have been on people’s lives. I accept that I’m not In July 1981 I began employment at Ma- a couple more SA Schools caps coming everyone’s cup of tea, but if you can han- ritzburg College and I have always said through his pipeline. dle discipline and train hard then you I’m a schoolmaster not a teacher, because Among the more recent internatio- will ourish under me,” Bechet says. I teach phys ed and I coach sport,” the nals Bechet coached at school are Tevin One only has to spend ve minutes on 65-year-old says. Kok, Tyson Dlungwana, Tommy Ham- the side of a sports eld with Bechet to Von Mayer, who has followed in Be- mond, Siya Nolutshungu, Taine Paton, know that it is obvious he hates losing, chet’s footsteps as a schoolmaster coa- Peabo Lembethe and Matt Guise-Brown. but he is more than willing to embrace ching hockey, albeit further in the heart Before the recent era, Proteas such as Ste- the tough lessons that defeat can impart. of the KZN Midlands at Michaelhouse, ve and Iain Evans, Grant von Mayer, Ryan “One does actually learn a lot more says it was only when he was a student Shrives, Darren Gallagher, Charl van der from losing, especially kids,” Bechet says. that he realised the key to Bechet’s suc- Merwe and Gareth Carr all graduated un- “And knowledge is power and I do read a cess. der Bechet’s coaching. lot. Sports books like the autobiographies “Bech really gets the best out of people And this is not to mention the impact of people like Jose Mourinho, Pep Guar- because he gets you to play for something Bechet has had on cricket in this country, diola, Rod McQueen, Eddie Jones, they other than yourself. O en you end up as coach of the Maritzburg College 1st XI were all hard guys. My approach is cer- playing for him. for 572 games, he had a major hand in the tainly that you must be all-in or not at all.” “That’s because he brings a system and development of Jonty Rhodes and David A product of Durban High School, Be- an organisation to the game, that comes Miller, as well as one Kevin Pietersen, chet studied at both Rhodes University from the fact he was a ne player him- MIKE BECHET who played for England. He was an SA and UCT. He has a BA Honours in Physi- self. He demanded that you do things to by Ken Borland Schools and SA U19 selector from 2008 to cal Education and an HDE and has twice improve your skills. When I talk to other 2020. been the recipient of the South African coaches now in the di erent fora, they’re Bechet’s coaching approach could be Hockey Association’s President’s Award all like him now. So Bech has spawned a described as “tough love” and the former for services to hockey, in both 2005 and whole lot of new coaches who continue parabat has always been more interested 2010. his approach”. in the character of his charges than in Bechet has seen all sides of the ho- Mike Bechet has already had a mas- their skills. ckey realm – as a player he represented sive impact on South African hockey, “I like to pick guys who absorb infor- Eastern Province, Western Province and and the good news is that in uence will mation and who have good character, I the champion Natal side, as well as being continue through his legacy – the young value that above skill. You can teach so- capped for the SA U21s in 1976. He has men he coached now becoming mentors meone skill but you can’t teach character. coached Natal Schools (1989) and the se- themselves.

24 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE

ighteen year old Tamlyn Kock to almost every tournament I’ve played has been in the spotlight for in. I don’t know where I would be without as long she’s been playing her support. ” Says Tammy, “I am so gra- hockey. This talented young teful for everything she has done for me.” player matriculated during Tamlyn has been selected for many one of the toughest times in highly ranked teams in her high school Ehistory from Beaulieu College in Midrand, years. At only 16 years old, she was se- South Africa, achieving one distinction lected to be a part of the U21 Southern and scholarship o ers from universities Gauteng Women’s side that won Gold at not only in South Africa but the United the U21 IPT in 2019. At the 2018 Pro-Series States as well. “I struggled mentally during Indoor Nationals Tournament, Tamlyn this pandemic but I have been trying to was selected for the All Star Indoor Team focus on training and my mother has hel- that then travelled to Germany and Ams- TICK ped me stay focused and motivated which terdam in January 2020 to play in a series I really appreciate.” of matches. In addition to this, Tamlyn Tamlyn attended Herlear Primary and was selected to play at the prestigious went on to attend her rst year of high PHL (Premier Hockey League) Tourna- school at Northern Cape High School. ment, just one week a er she turned 17. A er much consideration, she nally ac- She played for the Madikwe Rangers, coa- TOCK cepted her scholarship at Beaulieu Colle- ched by the highly renowned, Tsoanelo ge that was funded by the Allister Frederi- Pholo. Tamlyn scored the winning goal to cks Hockey Development Fund (AFHDF). take the Madikwe Rangers into the nals, “I wanted to see what high school would where they won the Gold Medal. “Tamlyn be like rst and feel it out. I was nervous is a huge talent and a great prospect for about moving to Joburg.” the future.” says Coach Pholo, “She’s an With the support of her parents, the TAMLYN asset to every team she plays in.” AFHDF and Beaulieu College, Tamlyn Tamlyn made her rst appearance in made a big move at a young age to Johan- the green and gold for the south African nesburg to follow her dreams. “I noticed National U21 Women’s Team in August of right away the level [of hockey] in Sou- thern Gauteng was much higher than in 2019 and then was selected for the South the Northern Cape. The training sessions African National Indoor Women’s team KOCK were very structured and I was able to a er winning the ‘Most Promising You- work on very speci c skills. It made me ng Player’ award as well as having scored “My time will come” a better player.” Tamlyn worked very hard the most eld goals in both the A and B and though her achievements show it, she section of the 2020 Indoor IPT that was modestly accepts her congratulations. hosted in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa in by Catarina dos Santos “I am really grateful for the opportunity February on 2020. that was given to me by the AFHDF and Despite not making the travelling to Errol Davis, my school coach at Beau- squad for the U21 AFCON Tournament lieu, for motivating me and supporting later this year, Tamlyn showed great ma- me when I moved to Beaulieu. I wouldn’t turity in how she handled her disappoint- have been there without his help.” ment. “Like anyone, I was extremely disa- She was selected for the South Afri- ppointed that I didn’t make the travelling can U16 High Performance Squad at the team. However, I am not in a rush. I know 2018 Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPT). that my hard work will pay o and my Tamlyn had also been playing in the Sou- time will come. I will keep working hard thern Gauteng Premier League for a year under the guidance of my coaches to pre- at that point. She played for the Beaulieu pare for the next challenge.” Hockey Academy’s Senior Women’s Team Tamlyn has decided to take a gap year starting in her Grade 9 year (2017). “It was from her studies in 2021. “I will continue very tough to move to Beaulieu but I was to play my hockey at Beaulieu Hockey very well supported, especially by my Academy in Joburg this year and will be- mother (Debbie Kock). She has travelled gin my studies in 2022.”

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 25 FEATURE

26 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE

hen I travelled to In- at anytime and no one would know ex- eld hockey is just not developing quickly dia for the Hockey cept myself. Half way through the session enough at this moment in time. Growing India League or HIL your mind starts telling you to stop, and up in Cape Town I attended great hockey for short I introduced evidently the older I become I notice the schools with brilliant coaches but once I myself to the team sooner that voice creeps into your head! got to club level I felt my development was as a South African So what stopped me from quitting ses- beginning to slow down. Playing abroad withW a British passport who was living in sions early? Well, it’s quite simple, if you truly broadened my hockey horizons. I The Netherlands. Unfortunately most of have a powerful enough goal when your learnt so much in the rst few years es- the guys couldn’t speak English so they mind starts feeding you exit strategies pecially and I felt I was continually being didn’t really follow the joke. I’m often you return re with the strongest mental challenged with new styles of play, di er- asked by young South African players image you can of your dream. I’ve never ent techniques and just an all round di er- especially what it’s like playing overseas allowed myself to quit a session early un- ent approach. This is a huge reason why I and if I recommend it. So here are some less it’s for fear of injury. As you can see chose to play abroad! things I’ve learnt from training, playing from the above picture, as a team we also and living abroad for the past 9 years! trained no matter what! Fun, Mates and Tourism Wednesdays Part of living abroad is meeting new peo- Why? Proving yourself ple, hopping over the border to visit other Firstly what reason do you have for going Moving to Holland in 2009 was another countries, learning all the quirky cultural to play hockey or any other sport abroad? big decision for me. I had nally settled di erences which make a country unique The chance to learn new skills, train with in England a er four years and my pro- and if you’re really lucky nding a really a better team, for your own personal de- fessional career as a teacher / director great Dutch girlfriend;) In Holland if you velopment as a person? There are many of hockey was developing well. Honestly reasons why players choose this option I can’t even remember what made me travel two hours north, south or east by and it’s something people o en ask me make the nal decision to go to Holland, car you are in another country. In con- so hopefully I’ll be able to explain what I a mixture of wanting to know if I could trast to living in Johannesburg where you learnt and how playing abroad changed make it in the best league in the world or are probably still trying to get back to Pre- me as a player and a person. the chance to play semi professionally. I toria a er a days work. had written to all of the twelve Hoofdklas- A nice routine Jacques le Roux and I Growing Up se clubs asking if they were interested in started when he was still playing at Den I still remember the rst time I le to live having me for the coming 2009/2010 sea- Bosch was Tourism Wednesdays. Time overseas, destination Reading Hockey son. Aged 24 and a er my recent success seemed to be ying by and neither of us Club, England. As I wasn’t paid to play at as a player at the Beijing Olympics, being had seen much of the country we were li- that stage in my career I was also working named SA’s Player of the Year and also ving in so we made a pact to go somewhe- full time at a local school just outside of Reading Hockey Club’s MVP I thought it re di erent every Wednesday come rain Reading. I lay in bed that rst night with would quite easy to pick up a contract in or shine. We had some epic drives toge- tears in my eyes wondering why I’d cho- Holland. I was sorely mistaken… ther talking about life and saw many of sen this, or rather why I’d let my coach I didn’t even receive a reply from most the beautiful attractions which are in persuade me to. It was the rst time I had of the clubs I emailed but a er some mon- Holland. If you are in another country for le home for longer than a week or two. ths of waiting I nally got an o er from a limited amount of time don’t take it for I’d had to say goodbye to my girlfriend of HC Den Bosch. I quickly researched the granted, before you know it you’ll be on two years, quit my university and started club, signed my contract and that August a ight back home without ever having up with UNISA (which was hard enough I arrived in Holland for the rst time. The experienced any of the local tourism or on its own dealing with their ‘help cen- idea of being paid to play hockey seemed traditions. So make sure you get out there tres’!) and for the next four months up un- incredibly strange to me and with it came and explore, it’s key to nd a balance be- til Christmas I was going to have to work a whole lot of pressure, a kind of pressure tween focussing on your hockey but also things out on my own. I grew up so much I wasn’t used to. No-one from Den Bosch having something else to keep your mind in those rst few months away from home. had ever heard of me. In the past they fresh. It sounds simple enough but until you had had some big name signings so to see have lived on your own, away from friends me arrive at their rst training session Grateful and your family it’s hard to explain how was I’m sure a disappointment for them. Along my travels around the world, En- lonely you can feel at times. I had to ac- I may have been given a contract by the gland and Holland especially I have met tually learn how to feel comfortable with board of Den Bosch but tting into a new and worked with some fantastic people. just myself for company. I also perfected team is something I would have to do my- I’m not going to mention everyone be- the skill of how to take “sel es” with my self. I could feel the eyes of everyone on cause the list is very long! I would like camera! me at training asking questions like; is he to thank all the sta at Brad eld College good enough? Does he deserve to be here? who were especially accommodating in Training while no-one is watching Will he make any di erence? Why did covering duties and classes while I was You o en hear elite athletes talking about we buy him? Dealing with this pressure o training or touring. To the members of training alone or training harder and lon- isn’t easy and something players coming ger than any of their competition. I liked abroad need to anticipate. As someone Reading Hockey Club who made me feel the idea and challenge of being away who is quite shy and unimposing with so welcome at ‘The Ding’, I will always re- from South Africa for an extended period new people I found this di cult. I made member winning the league with you twi- PLAYING ce and of course the brilliant Christmas of time. My goal was to return in 2006 af- sure I had the basics in place, I made a ter a year abroad and prove to the SA coa- conscious e ort to learn everyones name and awards dinners. ch I was good enough to make the 2006 in our team and those of the supporters Finally to the members of Den Bosch World Cup and Commonwealth teams. as soon as possible. I made sure I trained Hockey Club where I’m currently playing, Unfortunately or fortunately depending at my best every session to prove I was I truly feel at home at this family club and OVERSEAS, IS city. Let’s hope we, the Men’s1 can bring on how you look at it I wasn’t selected for good enough and not just here for a paid either team. Disappointed but even more holiday. More than ten years later and back the former glory the club saw over determined I returned to England and I’m still at HC Den Bosch and enjoying it ten years ago! worked harder than ever before. I recall a more than ever. Thanks to the supporters 2 IT FOR YOU? tness session I did in the sleet and free- If there are any South African players zing cold on New Year’s Eve 2008. That Learning back home thinking about travelling by “Playing Editor” Austin Smith session summed up what I achieved in I can’t believe looking back how much I abroad to play and have any questions my years in England. I trained so many ti- have learnt about the beautiful game of please feel free to drop me an email at mes on my own when I knew I could stop eld hockey. I love South Africa but club [email protected].

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 27 FEATURE

28 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE If you look out of your window to the east in the mornings you will see the sunrise, a new day, certain and BRAND SOLUTIONS vibrant. But to the East that’s not all that is rising with a vibrant spirit and a certainty, Eastern Gauteng Hockey is re inventing itself, and slowly rising to shine bright once again in the elds of SA Hockey.

The province is putting e ort into growing its league structures and increasing player numbers to accommodate Minimum quantity applies // Limited while stocks last // Lead times apply on all orders the growth.

EGHA is invigorating its Website and its Social media presence and we invite every hockey person , from east, west, north or south to come along on the journey, to add value and rekindle the hockey friendships we forged over many years. We’re all about providing a solution that speaks your brand. For your branded Please join us on our website, get in touch and assist the growth, the fresh rise, the vibrancy sports activation stands or events, branded team kits and branded giveaways, https://egha.org.za/ make sure your corporate identity is put on show in the best way possible and with the highest quality options.

SERVICE OFFERING

Web Design Search Engine Software & Development *Printing 3D Animation Optimisation Development

*Corporate Gifting Social Media Website Updates Multimedia & Clothing Management Hosting

Media Based Social Media *Eventing & Graphic Design Corporate Video Marketing Packages Content Generation Events Management

Email Campaigns Application So much more... Retainers Audio Recording & Management Development tailored to your brand

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 29 Tel: 083.278.0777 // [email protected] // www.prycision.com If you look out of your window to the east in the mornings you will see the sunrise, a new day, certain and BRAND SOLUTIONS vibrant. But to the East that’s not all that is rising with a vibrant spirit and a certainty, Eastern Gauteng Hockey is re inventing itself, and slowly rising to shine bright once again in the elds of SA Hockey.

SERVICE OFFERING

Web Design Search Engine Software & Development *Printing 3D Animation Optimisation Development

*Corporate Gifting Social Media Website Updates Multimedia & Clothing Management Hosting

Media Based Social Media *Eventing & Graphic Design Corporate Video Marketing Packages Content Generation Events Management

Email Campaigns Application So much more... Retainers Audio Recording & Management Development tailored to your brand

Tel: 083.278.0777 // [email protected] // www.prycision.com Ever felt like hockey is missing a place where you can access all the scores, see all the competitions worldwide, and even get the hotest news about your favorite teams and players?

We did. That’s why we exist. Coming soon to your phone. FEATURE

Ever felt like hockey is missing a place where you can access all the scores, see all the competitions worldwide, and even get the hotest news about your favorite teams and players?

We did. That’s why we exist. Coming soon to your phone. RYAN HACK IS BACK! yan Hack has once again ren’t able to build on some of the aspects postponement of the World Cup meant stepped up to the mantle that we had made progress in”. that David Joshua needed to immigrate to of head coach of the SA In- He was then moved to the role of assis- be with his wife and the pending arrival door hockey men following tant coach for the following cycle under of his daughter, leaving the position open David Joshua’ emigration Pierre le Roux including taking the team, once again. Despite the frustrations of to the UK. Hack has him- the African Champions, to the Berlin In- another stumbling block, Hack is incre- Rself been involved in various roles around door Hockey World Cup. The experience dibly excited to work with the players. the team since 2011 and will be the man wasn’t lost on Hack. “We have an incredible group of 23 tasked with leading the national team at “The Indoor Hockey World Cup is un- from the previous selection process and the African Quali er in April. like any other experience in the world there is really massive competition from Hack is a full-time director of Jimbu, of hockey. Its technical, its fast, its tacti- outside that group. I think we are in such a proudly South African marketing and cal and its massively entertaining to the a rich place in terms of player develop- procurement group based in Durban but packed crowds. Once you experience it ment and there is no reason we should knows full well the expectations of n- once, you desperately will want to go not aim towards the top 6 in the world ding a balance with the demands of his back and do it again. The closest we get in rankings with the talent at our disposal.” role as national men’s coach. Hack is also South Africa is with the PSI All Stars nigh- Hack also believes that the nature of a capped International indoor hockey ts at the Bellville Velodrome, its amazing. the hockey players experience in South player, shared his thoughts on that with The World Cup is like that but bigger.” Africa, bodes us well in a time of post co- Hockey the Podcast. In 2018 the SA Indoor Hockey Men vid recovery. “The fundamentals will remain the were given a series of All-Stars games “Hockey players have an inherent sel- same, so being a former player de nitely against the best in the world including the f-drive to develop without being coddled helps and plays a great part in your un- likes of Robert Tigges, Moritz Furste, Ben- by the association. Because they are used derstanding of the game. However, the ni Wess and Teun Rohof amongst others. game has evolved immensely, and the The opportunity to prepare was massive to working hard and dedicating time to pace has changed so you can’t lean back and is something that the South Africans their tness and development, our South on the laurels of learning that you had as have failed to build on subsequent to the African hockey players are already incre- a player, you need to develop consistently World Cup, having to wait almost two dibly well built-in order to overcome the as a coach.” years for their next game. That game was challenge.” Hack previously led the team to the a home series against Switzerland where Hack will be joined by Justin Ro- 2015 Hockey World Cup in Leipzig as Hack was again in the assistant role while senberg as his assistant for the African Head Coach where the team did remarka- David Joshua was the man at the helm. Quali er where the BlitzStoks will take bly well considering their long absence Despite the long absence, the team on Namibia and Botswana at the African from Indoor Hockey. showed the strength in depth and quali- Quali er in Durban in April with the win- “We were a team that were very rarely ty of indoor hockey that has become part ner of each tournament securing a spot exposed to international hockey and we of the fabric of the SA Hockey family. A at the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup for also had to deal with the rule change to 5-0 series whitewash was fully deserving 2022 in Belgium, a tournament that was only have ve players (Ed – this has sub- as South Africa outclassed Switzerland originally postponed due to the impact sequently been corrected thankfully!) on in every aspect, while featuring a host of of the coronavirus pandemic. What we the pitch, which was not what we were debutants. Once again, the team were pri- do know is that in a time of uncertain- playing in SA. It was a great experience, med for the opportunity to take the next ty, Hack will bring a consistency that and a lot of lessons were learnt, but with step when the covid-19 pandemic hit and has been craved. What more can we say? the rules changing straight back we we- once again changed the playing eld. The Hack is Back!

32 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE

JOHN PAUL - THE COMPLETE PLAYER by Chris Rembe / Sporting Success from Nothern Areas FEATURE

JOHN PAUL - THE COMPLETE PLAYER by Chris Rembe / Sporting Success from Nothern Areas

34 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE oday we pro le someone my love for this sport started. In those We would always have sport conversa- that could easily be classi ed days, the junior hockey system was well tions. One thing I learnt from him is to as a complete hockey player. organized and structured. Junior matches appreciate what I have in terms of playing John Paul displayed incredi- would take place in the mornings and equipment. He was one that really looked ble skills levels, outstanding senior hockey later that same a ernoon. a er his equipment. My hockey teacher at ball control and stick work on Every senior team had to make sure the primary school Mr Rougie, would really Tthe eld of play. His awless talent made junior team plays that morning otherwise push the team constantly. At times it felt hockey look very simple and easy on the they wouldn’t be allowed to ful l the x- a little over the top, but he always wanted eye. John is undoubtably another success- ture that a ernoon. So you can imagine us to give our best e ort in everything we ful story out of the Northern Areas of Port the interest and the level of competitive- did. We won many games under his gui- Elizabeth. His outstanding achievements ness. One would have to rush home a er dance but sadly he passed on before he could be attributed to his knowledge and the junior game on a Sunday morning, go could witness our true development. Gary execution of what is required to succeed eat or bring your food with so as to be able Dolley coached me at Secondary School. at the highest level. His game intelligence, to watch the senior teams play that a er- He also had in uence in my playing days technique, balance and coordination, his noon. Sundays were hockey days which at Cavaliers, before I moved to Alpha. Gary composure and mental strength amongst didn’t impress my grandmother, as natu- Dolley emphasised on basics of hockey. others are areas of advantage he had over rally Sunday is also church day. The Gel- He always pushed us very much accepting the rest. John’s success did not come easy. van grounds was were you wanted to be on nothing but our best e ort. Geronimo Pie- Hard work, and ability to overcome cons- a Sunday. dt was another sports teacher that had an tant challenges made the achievements Growing up into this sport, I had a in uence on my sporting and schooling even more rewarding. The story of John lot of people I can thank for support and years. He welcomed me to the St Thomas Paul is very interesting indeed, it’s a story guidance. People that helped me in this Secondary School hockey team. The team tting for this platform. A story of a class path. My brother John and eldest sister was a mix of people from di erent back- hockey player. Lynn were very adamant i get involved in grounds and life experiences. Geronimo John grew up in Gelvandale. His pri- club sports. Sometimes even forceful. My Piedt was always calm and full of empathy, mary schooling commenced at Gelvandale brother would help me with playing equi- he just had a way of handling things. He primary school and high school at St Tho- pment. I always got John’s old hockey sti- taught me valuable lessons just from the mas Secondary School. He played a variety cks every time he got new ones from my manner in which he kept us together.” of di erent sports during his initial schoo- father. My father was very supportive and John Paul’s early foundation laid a ling. Soccer, cricket, hockey and tennis in drove me around all over to games and base for a successful hockey career. The Primary school.”Soccer was my rst love practices usually during his work time. My signs were there very early. John had a lot or interest followed by cricket, then ho- mother would make sure I would have my of talent and tremendous potential to go ckey. I was at Gelvandale primary school proper kit and it was clean. You could not far. His achievements in his early develop- with the likes of Denzil Dolley and Robin leave the house without being at your best. ment was a clear sign. Peterson and other top players. As you can My family support base was really special. 1995 - Eastern Province U/16 - Age 14 imagine every sport was very competiti- My grandmother would always tell us to 1995 - Captained St Thomas U/16 Team. ve. During this time I even played a bit of love what you do and stick to your guns. 1996 - Eastern Province U/16 - Age 15 cricket, occasionally opening the batting Always be honest with yourself. Most im- 1996 - Premier League Debut for with Robin Peterson. That didn’t last too portantly get an education. I still live by Cavaliers Hockey Club long though lol. While at school I was ro- these words to this day. 1997 - Eastern Province U/18 ped into club hockey at Lakeside Rovers Outside of my family support, a few 1997 - Eastern Province U21 Age 18 by my brother John Paul. When they didn’t other people played in uential roles or 1997 - South African U/16 team –Toured have enough players for the junior game, I supported me in one way or another. My Zimbabwe was asked to play. Initially I was not keen neighbour Roderick Yearwood guided me 1998 - Eastern Province U/21 A to play but eventually my brother and el- and showed me the importance of taking 1998 - Eastern Province Senior Men’s B dest sister convinced me as they were both pride in what you do. I used to throw cri- Team playing at the time. I suppose that’s when cket balls at him on the side of the house. 1999 - Eastern Province U18 A

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 35 1999 - South Africa U 18 A of 19 can be attributed largely to Michael Australia 1999 - Eastern Province U21 A Sacke. Michael Sacke played an important 2009 - EP Mens Senior Team 1999 - Eastern Province Senior Men’s B role in opening up a door that lead to a Team lot of opportunities for me at the highest. Achievements while Playing in England 2000 - South Africa U/20 Squad Playing for the provincial A side was a real 2001 - Won Kent Regional League 2000 - Eastern Province Senior Men’s stepping stone for me. Unquestionably Division 1/2001/2003 (England) Team though, my parents played a major role. 2002 - Won Kent Cup for the rst time in Holcombe Hockey Club: England They always went above themselves to clubs history 2001 - 2005: 4 Seasons overseas make sure I was in the best possible posi- - Indoor Kent Cup semi- nal for HA 2002 - South African U/21 Team tion to compete. If it was not taking me to Trophy 2002 - Eastern Province U/21 games or practices, it was getting for me 2002 - Won South Premier League 2002 - Eastern Provinces Men’s (Senior) what I needed. But most importantly, they Division 2 2002 - South Africa A team toured were always there. To this day, the me- - Won Kent Cup scored 2 goals in Zimbabwe mory of my parents watching myself and nal (Top goal scorer in cup my brother John play a test match for Sou- competition) Despite the support John was blessed th Africa against France in PE (KC March - Indoor Kent top goal scorer/player to have received from various sectors, a Astro) will always stand out for me. It’s a of the year journey always has it challenges. “Growing memory I will always cherish. - Won University Cup with up not having the privilege of attending a My love for the game has diverted me Canterbury Christchurch Model C school made things tougher for into coaching. I’m still currently playing University College me especially at trials. I would constantly competitive hockey but have accelerated - Won South Premier League have to prove myself beyond reasonable my coaching role. I’m coaching the team Division 1 doubt. Always had to start o the back at St Thomas Secondary School hockey - Won University League with foot. We played our hockey at Gelvan grou- under the guidance of Mr Piedt. I’m also Canterburg Christchurch nds so I was not familiar to many people, in the process of starting an academy an University speci cally selectors. The problem with focusing on personalized coaching. this is that I was constantly played out I always believe, Your situation does Coaching in England of position, but didn’t let that distract my not determine your projection. These are - Chatham Grammar School goal. some encouraging words I have for the - Junior open day at Holcombe My father worked a lot out of town so community. Words I live by. One should Hockey Club, run by England he couldn’t always take me to games or always believe in themselves and money hockey association won Junior trials so I use to ask permission to leave does not de ne you. It’s easier said than tournament, rst success as coach school early and hike to trials which use to done but as they say money buys you thin- be either in Summerstrand or Grey High gs but only you can make it happen. Break - In charge of junior structure at School. Trials were also held at Westering barriers not dreams.” Holcombe - 1 of coaches High School one year, I actually walked 2001 - Eastern Province U/21 A - Coached ladies 2nd and 3rd team from Beetlestone Road to trials as I had no 2001 - Mecer - UPE Hockey School of other alternative. It was tough but the love Excellence Coaching Achievements of the game and the desire to achieve kept 2001 - Eastern Province Men’s A side - Northern Areas high Performance me going. 2001 - Kent U/21 (England) coach Kids from 12 - 16 years As mentioned previously, a lot of com- 2003 - South African men’s squad for all - Man United Hockey Club munity members, and family played an Africa games in Nigeria - St Peters Mens Hockey Club important supporting role in my journey. 2003 - Eastern Province Senior Men’s team - UPE 3rd Mens Team Amongst some of the coaches I worked (won Interprovincial Tournament) - NMU Premier B Mens with, Chris Ellie had an in uence on my 2004 - EP Men’s Senior Team - St Thomas Secondary School hockey. This was speci cally during my 2004 - SA A team played Scotland - Gelvandale Primary primary school days. He showed me a lot 2005 - Debut for South Africa vs. England 2001 - 2004: Player Coach Holcombe on the technical aspect of the game and 2005 - South Africa vs Ireland HC (England) beating players. John Ruiters was ano- 2005 - Champs Challenge 2005 with South 2000 - 2009: Coach NMU ther person who was involved in my early African Men’s 2010 - Gelvan Force development at Cavaliers and was the EP 2005 - South Africa vs Egypt 2004 - Assist coach UPE Premier Men men’s B manager when we toured Cape 2005 - South Africa vs France - Morningside High School Head Town. I was 16 or 17 then, he looked a er 2005 - African Cup in 2005 with South Coach me well. You can imagine how I felt at that Africa men’s - Victoria Park High School age playing with the likes of Johnny Smi- 2005 - South Africa vs England 2016 - EP Ladies u/21 th, Patrick Rusford, with Gregory Knipp 2006 - South African Students Team 2018 - Despatch Ladies hockey coach as coach. My EP A team debut at the age Common Wealth Games in - Wosa hockey club WORD SEARCH FIND THE SURNAMES OF THE 16 PLAYERS WHO REPRESENTED SOUTH AFRICA IN THE 2012 LONDON OLYMPICS.

Y T R X X L W S G T S I I L C O E T Z E E O W I L S O N DEETLEFS M D N O A M S T O Y M L R R TAYLOR L A A F D E B B L D I L E A DAMONS COSTON D A R V R N S A T O S E E D RIX E E E A I L T E H I T S E A COETZEE GEORGE E E R E I D L S G D A S R M DAVIDS T H E N O S S R I T L U C O MARESCIA RUSSELL L S E G R O E G R E O R O N CHAMBERLAIN E A T A Y L O R B O R A S S WOODS MARAIS F C H A M B E R L A I N T A TERBLANCHE S M F A R N T R I X I G O I WILSON BRIGHT T E R B L A N C H E N E N B S L T L O A I C S E R A M G

THE MAGAZINE

PARTNER WITH US TODAY

contact us [email protected] WORD SEARCH THE GENERAL NEWS FIND THE SURNAMES OF THE 16 PLAYERS WHO REPRESENTED SOUTH AFRICA IN THE 2012 LONDON OLYMPICS.

Y T R X X L W S G T S I I L C O E T Z E E O W I L S O N DEETLEFS M D N O A M S T O Y M L R R TAYLOR L A A F D E B B L D I L E A DAMONS COSTON D A R V R N S A T O S E E D RIX E E E A I L T E H I T S E A COETZEE GEORGE KARA BOTES ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL LLOYD NORRIS- E E R E I D L S G D A S R M DAVIDS OUTDOOR HOCKEY RETIREMENT JONES IN SA T H E N O S S R I T L U C O MARESCIA LEGENDS CRICKET RUSSELL South African indoor and outdoor national player Kara Botes has announced her retirement from the SA Outdoor Hockey side ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. Botes, who TEAM IN INDIA L S E G R O E G R E O R O N CHAMBERLAIN featured for South Africa at the Commonwealth Games announced her retirement on WOODS her Kara Botes Digital Facebook page as she focuses on her career a er hockey. Botes The Road Safety World Series started last E A T A Y L O R B O R A S S represented South Africa on 53 Occassions on the outdoor turf including the Womens year in March in India before being cur- MARAIS World Cup in 2018. tailed by the COVID-19 Pandemic. The F C H A M B E R L A I N T A TERBLANCHE tournament features legends of the game WILSON of cricket including Brian Lara, Kevin Pie- S M F A R N T R I X I G O I EAST LONDON tersen and Jonty Rhodes. Each team also BRIGHT ASTRO IS features a legend from a di erent sporting T E R B L A N C H E N E N B code and for the South Africans that is le- DESTROYED gendary striker Lloyd Norris-Jones. To top it all o Chuck also got to where the num- S L T L O A I C S E R A M G As shared on social media, the East Lon- ber 10 jersey again! don Astro is in complete ruin a er falling victims to vandals. As reported by ENCA, the astro has been vandalised by locals who want the turf to be used for football pitches. Its disgusting and a massive shame that an area which is a hotbed of hockey development in South Africa has been le in ruins. MPUMALANGA MEN AND NORTHERN BLUES WOMEN WIN EMERGING CUP CAPE TOWN The Hockey Farm in Witbank played host to the Emerging Cup in February with some quality indoor hockey action taking place. The Northern Blues women emer- PREMIER LEAGUE ged victorious with victory over Mpumalanga in the nal, while the result was re- versed in the mens competition with the hosts triumphing a er a shootout victory. 2 DRAFT A MASSIVE SUCCESS

The 2nd dra of the Cape Town Premier AUSTIN SMITH BECOMES A Hockey League took place and almost 900 youngsters were selected to take part. The- HOOFDKLASSE CENTURION re are 6 Franchises including the Raptors, the Royals and the Heat contesting across U12, U14, U16 and U18 tournaments for both boys and girls.

Austin Smith became just the second fo- newing his contract for another year with reign player in Hoofdklasse history to sco- Den Bosch. The former South African cap- re 100 goals when he netted his rst in a tain is now second on the list behind coun- 3-1 win for Den Bosch over Tilburg. Smith tryman Justin Reid-Ross, who at the time who has played for 12 season for Den Bos- of going to print is on 183 goals split over ch celebrated joining the elite list by re- his time at Amsterdam and now Hurley. GALLERY

CINDY HACK EASTERNS TRAINING SA MENS TRAINING CAMP SA Training Camp Photos by: Rayder Media

JOBURG HOCKEY LEAGUE SA WOMENS TRAINING CAMP

HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 39 SA MENS TRAINING CAMP SA Training Camp Photos by: Rayder Media

SA WOMENS TRAINING CAMP

40 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE