THE MAGAZINE THIRD EDITION | 2020
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM US TO YOU! FEATURES
WHAT’S INSIDE
6 SPAR SA back together SPAR indoor hockey side
8 EVO Hockey A coaching revolution
12 Bits and Pieces What’s happening in hockey?
13 Profile Fawaaz Kahder
14 Twane Titans The vision of Boithabiso
16 Health Hints 14 Lets talk sprinting 18 Product Feature 20 Smart ball 20 Phumz Mbande Juggles work, hockey and Covid-19
22 Health Hints Mental Fitness in SA Hockey
24 Hockey Junction Junior hockey on the rise
26 The Bovelander Foundation Empowering through hockey
28 Tribute To Tony Godding
30 Meet our Cover Stars
32 The First Family of Namibian Hockey Meet the Cormacks
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE hockeythemagazine.co.za
26 Editor Tyron Barnard [email protected]
Design OTM Marketing otm.marketing
Advertising Rachel du Plessis +27 83 278 0777 [email protected]
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 2 @TKSPORTSSA
3 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
TYRON BARNARD
020 is a year we will never forget. A global pandemic pulled the carpet out from under our feet. Plans were thrown out of windows; dreams were chan- ged and ultimately, we had to dust ourselves off and put the pieces back toge- ther on a mangled year. I am incredibly proud to sit here and acknowledge that we have done that exactly. We dusted ourselves off and put the pieces together on Hockey the 2Magazine. We can now look back at this year of incredible difficulty and smile that in a time of incredible uncertainty, we stood up to introduce you to Hockey the Magazine. We are now into the third edition and we can let some amazing voices use our platform to share some amazing stories. We have had wonderful stories from Strength Society top man Shilo in every edition and this time out he looks at the world of sprinting. Ken Borland puts together a wonderful tribute to the late Tony Godding, while James King shares the Evo Hockey journey with us. I am also incredibly pleased to welcome Ca- tarina dos Santos to the team this edition. The 2021 Hockey year has a lot of promise for us to look forward to. There is the Afri- can Hockey Indoor Cup of Nations as South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe look to secure their sports in the 2022 Indoor Hockey World Cup in Belgium. There will also be the Junior World Cup Qualifiers looking to qualify for the main tour- naments late next year, one of which will be in Potchefstroom. Mental health is an incredibly under spoken about topic in the world of sport, but its importance is probably greater in this time than ever before. We have enlisted the services of Iain Shippey to dive into the topic and share with us some important advice. Iain was a mentor to many of the Springboks in and around the 2007 Rugby World Cup and offers an incredible insight into the mental side of the game. With Christmas just two weeks away hockey loving families may be looking for the perfect Christmas gift. Look no further than Sports Republic latest offering the Smart Ball. The intuitive app links up with the ball and along with radical avatars creates a superb learning and fun experience. Both my son and I have enjoyed using the smart ball already, but I wont tell you who has the better scores! Of course, the centre piece for the year will be the Olympic Games, with or without fans, where both the South African Men and Women will be in action. We will make sure we give you unrivalled coverage as our African champions look to improve on their pre- vious best showings. Lastly, I just wanted to thank every one of you. Thank you for reading, subscribing, following and sharing. I made a promise when we started the magazine and it’s a promise that is the centre of our existence. If you keep reading, we will keep writing!
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Sports field advertising that will make you a WINNER [email protected] FEATURE SPAR South Africa back together preparing for 2021
he SPAR South Africa indoor nue run by Genevieve Chisholm, a former “Its been a tough year for each of the hockey side converged on KZN indoor Player. The team also wore players. Our plans were put on hold and Durban for their first gathe- the End Gender Violence shirts of SPAR the uncertainty regarding the African Cup ring since their 2-2 series as together they stand against a problem was very unsettling. But seeing the ladies draw in Poland in January. plaguing the country A gap of nearly 320 days saw SA Indoor Hockey Captain Cindy Hack back in action, you would hardly know Texcitement at a fever pitch with the full was delighted to be back on the field with that they have had 7 months without com- squad selected at the 2020 Indoor IPT as- her team: petitive action. There are a lot of players sembling. “After 8 months of frustration it was an putting their hands up which makes the As is the norm for a SPAR South Afri- honor to be back on the field in the green selection process tough for all the right rea- ca camp, the team played a lot of hockey and gold. We can’t wait for the challenges sons!” including games against various invitatio- The team will now be preparing for the nal sides, coupled with intense training that 2021 will throw at us, we have no dou- sessions and the much-anticipated team bt that together we will be ready for them African Cup of Nations, which should take building. all!” place early in 2021. The winner of the tourna- The team building for this camp was Coach Lennie Botha was glowing in his ment will qualify for the now postponed 2022 held at Flag Animal Farm, an awesome ve- praise of the players: FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup in Belgium!
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 6 In case you love Hockey, the Podcast almost as much as you love Hockey, the Magazine...
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Join us at thehockeysite.com 7 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE
It’s a coaching (R)evolution
by James King
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 8 EVOLVE [ ih-volv ] Verb (used with object), e·volved, e·volv·ing. to develop gradually: to evolve a scheme.
hris Bowen has a pensive gy theory into effective on-field coaching tand. Chris is animated as he continues: look as he gazes into his lap- and performance is a life-long pursuit “If you look at hockey there are a large top camera in Belgium. “It for Chris. He explains the many hours of amount of rule changes every year and took a long time, I sat on it networking with coaches who have diffe- the game is constantly evolving, probably for about 4 years...” he says, rent styles, trying to find the silver bullet. one of the most evolutionary sports there reflecting on the idea that Whilst there may not be one of those, is. Shorten this to evo – Evolve your game”. Cwas many years in the making. The year Chris has developed his own thinking. 2015 marked the end of that beginning, “Coaching is not simply a career, it has The EVO Experience the fulfilment of the dream; EVO Hockey a helluva (sic) influence on people’s lives. The EVO experience is the key. This was born. The coach’s influence goes beyond the ho- is where the difference lies. Camps com- ckey field. I continued studying because I menced in October 2015, and there are Evolution starts in Africa wanted to make sure that I have a positi- now numerous options available within Educated at St Stithians College in ve impact on the lives of the people I am the EVO coaching offering. All of this in- Gauteng, Chris played for South Africa coaching. No matter what level they are – formation is available on the well-main- at u18 and u21 level. After achieving his absolute Beginner, Junior international, 3 tained and user-friendly website www. Honours in Organisational Psychology at time Olympian or international captains. evo-hockey.com. Rhodes University in 2006, Chris moved This is the biggest thing for me”. What makes up this EVO experience to the UK to play and coach hockey. “…I is the focus on the whole person. Chris wanted to travel and I also wanted to play. EVO Hockey is Born philosophises: “(It’s) a complete experien- I had a British Passport so the UK was Fast forward to 2015, and Chris has ce – an emotional attachment” He goes the obvious choice. England was calling spent 4 years or more thinking “we can on to explain it in more detail, and the - the hockey was more professional and professionalise this” about his brand of relationship between sports psychology the lure of the Pound was strong”, Chris coaching. He knew there had to be more theory and Chris’s practical on-field ex- is quoted as saying in an interview with to it. pertise starts to make a lot of sense. www.FieldHockey.com in 2010. More there certainly is. It starts with “(The) mental approach to the game is Once settled in the UK, there was chatting over a beer with friend Omar. absolutely critical – Evo emphasises the much shuttling between there and South Chris describes his now business partner mental aspect. (We) design the camp days Africa. Chris not only played for Southern affectionately: “…a full-on hockey nerd, specifically – (there is) a lot of stimulus. Gauteng in the IPT, he was selected to re- established hockey coach and top-flight (We) use a lot of equipment – kids train present Wales, which he did 48 times. “My barrister”. Plucking up the courage to ex- (better) with distractions. They must have Grandmother was Welsh”, he explains. plain the concept, he finds more than a fun – (we have) banners – (we create a) willing ear. cultural identity – the EVO family”. Player Evolves into Coach “Why have you not done this already”, The Gantoise Club coach reflects on Chris relays Omar’s response. Later, Omar The EVO Family his 12 years as a player in the UK. There changes this to: “I’ll get involved”, “right, The “family members” enjoy time with was always an interest in coaching, and let’s do this”. expert international players and coaches. being in the UK gave Chris a chance to The concept is unconventional, yet They have 25- to 35-minute sessions whe- not only play the sport he loves, but to in- simple. Top players have the skills, de- re the focus is on a specific skill. Chris fluence and develop others through coa- veloping players at any level want and tells us that in learning – after about 30 ching. need those skills to evolve. Who better minutes the info becomes white noise. He This is clearly his passion. “Playing than your heroes to coach you? Chris has adds that in these times of social media restricted you to its world”, he says, “so the the network, playing and coaching skills, this may even be shorter. It is important to natural progression to coaching opened Omar has the business acumen. They keep the stimulus there. It is also important more doors to me”. In the UK coaching both have the drive and plenty of passion. to have the right people working with the also allowed him to make coaching a pro- EVO Hockey is born. July 2015. camp attendees. fession. This is where selecting and working It is more than just that, “It almost Evolving the Brand with your coaching team is critical. “Focus became an addiction to me, and I stu- “(We) expose kids to world class – we on the coaches about what they want – fo- died Sports Psychology (Masters level at have the equivalent of Hockey’s Ronaldo’s cus on them and what makes them happy”. Roehampton University in the UK) and am and Messi’s in the camps”. Players such as The approach used where player/coaches a qualified sports psychology consultant. South Africa’s legendary Justin Reid-Ross focus on their specific skill is essential to This is used extensively in my approach to are part of the greater EVO family. The the EVO success. coaching. I love it, and to be able to make response from players surprised Chris: “I Another aspect that has become increa- a living from my passion is great”. reached out to people. If you don’t ask you singly critical in keeping the family together An Evolving Approach don’t get”. When EVO asked German wo- is the social media approach. Chris elabora- The year 2010 was a seminal one. Chris men’s captain Janne Müller-Wieland, she tes: “Social Media is critical and (we) need was studying, playing club and internatio- immediately replied:” Yes – this is a great to make sure that it is used effectively – (our nal hockey and coaching. “(It) taught me project, I would like to get involved”. (Ed: EVO family need to) feel belonging and at- a huge amount. It was an intense year. To I can hear some of you saying that with a tain and retain information”. maintain all aspects of my life full time. I German accent…) The discussion around social media and loved it but would never do it again”. EVO Hockey now has over 160 interna- online presence leads us to the topical issue The seeds are starting to be sown for tional players and coaches from 30 coun- of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the res- the unique concept of EVO Hockey. The tries associated with them. The brand ponse that Chris and Omar directed at this linking of coaching and sports psycholo- identity is strong, and is easy to unders- unprecedented crisis.
9 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE
EVO in the time of COVID-19 to coaching online and physically in the their only Men’s national championship. Training and playing was suspended future. The new facilities that are being bui- from March to July 2020 and only lifted to EVO also managed to put on a summer lt for the club are impressive and pro- a limited degree in August. The impact of training academy and socially distanced gressing, despite the COVID-19 second COVID-19 on EVO had the potential to be camps within governmental guidelines/ wave. This will be the future home for devastating. restrictions. Hockey people make things the growing number of youngsters envi- Working on the EVO social media and happen, and Chris Bowen is a passionate sioned to call Gantoise club their hockey online approach is an ongoing focus. At hockey professional. He explains what home. the time the pandemic struck, EVO rea- hockey people are all about: “People who lised that something different needed invest their time and effort into hockey, An EVO-lving Future to be done. Consultation with medical it’s a sacrifice. In hockey – no-one does Growing the base of hockey players is professionals in March/April 2020 did this to make (a lot of) money. If you aren’t something that Chris is passionate about. not paint a rosy picture. “Strap in, (it’s) doing it for the right reasons you will get There are plans to launch EVO Hockey in going to be bumpy, could be the best part found out”. a number of other countries, including of the year”, was their opinion. The EVO Scotland, Belgium, the Netherlands and response: “No trading for the company EVO goes Belgian? hopefully South Africa. The delivery mo- for a year? We have to do something”. The right reasons have taken Chris dels may be different in every country Chris chuckles. Asking the parents around the world, and now he is in Bel- but the EVO ethos is sacrosanct. of 5,000 EVO kids what they needed re- gium. He took up the role of Youth Coa- Chris explains that funding and deve- ceived an almost unanimous response: ch/Trainer and Mens 1st XI Assistant lopment models are different throughout “Please give me something…”. Necessi- Coach at Gantoise Hockey, Tennis and the world, and even between European ty is the mother of invention, and Chris Padel Club in Ghent in August 2020. His countries, the heartland of professional reckons that perhaps 15 years of online initial thoughts are positive: “(The) club hockey. When it comes to hockey and its development happened in 15 weeks! is great, Belgium is awesome. I’m loving future, Chris Bowen wears his heart on Bringing quarantined players and it. Phenomenal how far Belgium have his sleeve. He is in this for the long haul, coaches into the fray, home-based exerci- come. They’re unbelievable”. it is his life. ses and techniques were developed. The His job is to assist the youth and He ends with what can be regarded as result was the EVO Online Global Players men’s teams in their development. This both a wish and a pledge: “Hockey has to Academy (https://www.evo-hockey.com/ is in further support of the club’s deve- be a global success”. He knowingly adds: global-players-academy) and EVO On- lopment and performance, as they are “It’s just there isn’t one answer to it (ho- line Global Coaches Academy (https:// challenging for top spot in Belgium and ckey’s success)”. www.evo-hockey.com/global-coaches-a- participating in the Euro Hockey League It seems clear that if Chris Bowen has cademy). Check the website for more on over Easter (COVID dependent). Next anything to do with it, the solution is this and potential blended approaches year will be 100 years since the club won EVO-revolution!
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 10 TEN QUESTIONS FROM THE 2010 FIH HOCKEY WORLD CUP
01. What city played host to all the games? 02. Who scored the first goal of the tournament? 03. How many teams participated in the tournament 04. Who (players) were the tournaments highest scorers 05. Australia won the World Cup, what was the score in the final? 06. Who did they beat in the final? 07. Which team ranked third in the world at the time finished 12th? 08. Who are the two teams to win the tournament as a host? 09. Who did South Africa draw 3-3 with in the group stage? 10. Who scored South Africa’s final goal of the tournament?
2 10
4
Answers on page 12 11 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE THE JOBURG HOCKEY LEAGUE LAUNCHES The JHL formally hosted their launch function at Nonnas in Rose- bank ahead of their inaugural tournament in 2021
HOCKEY GETS HIGH! The Shilaroo Hockey Stadium is a hockey stadium located in Shilaroo, Himachal Pradesh, India. This Stadium is the world’s highest altitude ho- ckey stadium at around 8,000 feet (almost 2,500 meters above sea level) and it’s surrounded by Narkanda and Hatu Peaks.
SPOTLIGHT DURBAN COUNTRY CLUB ACKNOWLEDGES CAPTAINS INCLUDING THREE OF HOCKEY’S FINEST In recognition and appreciation for their service to South Africa as leaders in sport, advocates for sportsmanship and BITS AND PIECES respect for the game, the Durban Country Club is honou- ring South African sporting captains- past and present- with an honourary lifetime membership. Mike Madsen, Cindy Hack and Mike Cullen were honoured alongside the best of SA INDOOR MEN GET IN ACTION AT squash, rugby, football and more! PSI SHOWDOWN IN GAUTENG The SA Indoor Men got back on the court for the first time in a year taking part in the Gauteng All-Stars series. Here are some of the photos from the action.
HOCKEY GETS ANOTHER PODCAST Hockey Pod, the FIH own hockey po- dcast has been launched and joins a stellar list of hockey podcasts arou- nd the globe. Give it a listen or listen to any of our other favourite hockey OUR FAVOURITE podcasts available on all podcast PODCASTS... platforms. WORLD MASTERS HOCKEY WORLD CUP – CAPE TOWN 2021 CANCELLED As a result of lengthy scenarios assessed, regretfully, World Masters Hockey has unanimously decided to cancel the Nottingham, Cape Town & Tokyo World Cups due to be held in 2021. The Executive Board views its duty of care for the ARGENTINA HOCKEY MOURNS THE well-being of its members as paramount. Whilst DEATH OF DIEGO MARADONA this decision will be extremely disappointing, the Executive Board wished to assure the membership The Argentinean Hockey community joined that it intends to run World Cups in 2022 and will the outpouring of emotion from the pas- offer these Events to the Hosts of the cancelled Wor- sing of legendary Diego Maradonna. They ld Cups. posted on social media. The Argentine Ho- ckey Confederation joins the grief over the death of Diego Armando Maradona. Thank you for being present and joining us. Goo- dbye, Diego. We think ofyour family in this difficult time.
Answers: 1. New Delhi 2. Julian Hykes 3. 12 4. Luke Doerner and Taeke Taekema 5. 2-1 6. Germany 7. Pakistan 8. Netherlands and Germany 9. India 10. Tommy Ham- HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 12 mond PROFILE
KIMBERLY’S KAHDER – CAPTAIN AND HEAD BOY OF BEAULIEU COLLEGE
Catarina dos Santos
eventeen year old Fawaaz during breaks with everyone and having Fawaaz hopes to make a good and po- Kahder continues to impress the best time. We created a great bond.” sitive impact with his new role at Beaulieu as he continues his academic When Fawaaz was selected as captain, College and says that he hopes that he is and hockey career at Beaulieu Kahder expressed that he was initially a proud that his school has placed this trust College in Midrand. The first little bit nervous in his new role. “Some in him. “I am excited for the New Year and team skipper was elected Head of my teammates were older than me and I am really looking forward to the new ho- SBoy for 2021, not long after being selected in higher grades. I had to find my footing ckey season too.” Fawaaz was selected for as captain of his school team. “I was very with the new role. I spoke with my coach the South African U16 squad in his Grade surprised when it happened and it’s only and he inspired me to step up and embra- 10 year. “Hopefully, COVID permitting, beginning to sink it now.” ce being the captain of my team. It is a we can get back into IPT and I hope to be Fawaaz attended Hearly Primary in the great honour.” selected for the U18 South African Squad. Diamond City of Kimberly and was one of “Fawaaz has matured into a respon- I will be training hard for my teams until 5 students nationwide selected in 2017 to sible young man and his leadership role then.” receive funding from the Allistar Frederi- in the Beaulieu Hockey setup is what has cks Hockey Development Trust Fund. Ha- made him the perfect person to be Head Fawaaz says that he feeling very mo- ving passed his academic entrance exam Boy at the college. This is a massive feat tivated. “I hope that all of this has made and hockey trial, Fawaaz was a welco- for the hockey at the school and it makes my family and my parents proud.” says med addition to Beaulieu College. Having me very proud” says Hockey Director and Kahder. “My father, Rahiem Kahder, is made a clear impact on his school team, coach, Allistar Fredericks. “My advice to my sporting hero. He is a very good soc- Kahder has also been an asset to the Beau- Fawaaz is to stay humble and to lead by cer player. I love to speak with his friends lieu Hockey Academy Men’s premier Lea- example.” and hear all the stories about his sporting gue side, playing for them for 3 years now. Kahder has two or three tertiary educa- career. He didn’t have his chance to play ARGENTINA HOCKEY MOURNS THE “Leaving home was very difficult in the tion institutions in mind, saying he hasn’t professionally because of a motorcycle ac- DEATH OF DIEGO MARADONA beginning. I would look for every excuse yet decided exactly which course of study cident.” Kahder also describes his premier to go visit family at home as often as I cou- and which institution to go with. “I am ho- league teammate, Reza Rosenberg, as an ld.” Kahder said as he described his tran- ping for a bursary and am going to take inspiration. sition into Beaulieu. He explained that it some time to think about what I really Fawaaz Kahder’s leadership skills and took a little while to call Johannesburg want to study.” Fawaaz has expressed that maturity make him a well-rounded person ‘home’. “I am used to this set up now and he struggled without his sport in the be- and teammate. There is no doubt that this I am very happy overall.” Fawaaz says that ginning of the national lockdown due to young man is certainly someone to keep he was often inspired by his seniors when the COVID19 pandemic. “I missed playing our eyes on in the next couple of years. he was in the 8th grade, saying that the but I was injured too and decided to take The future of South African Hockey is hockey community at Beaulieu College the time to focus on my academics. This looking incredibly bright. is a real family. “Everyone supports each really helped me and I am very happy with other and everyone knows each other. my current academic results so far. I am I remember sitting on a bench at school still writing exams though.”
13 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE Tshwane Titans
THE VISION OF BOITHABISO
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 14 he day Steven Paulo won the walked with Pretty Morema from Grade 4 heart of “Tannie Cobie” was (Anton van Wouw) to matric @ AHMP (now when he, on driving into Ma- studying and playing at Potch). We are also melodi and noting the chil- imploring businesses to assist us in our en- dren, said out loud: “ I would deavours, supporting hockey, one valuable love to be able to teach them to player at a time. Tplay hockey, instead of running in the stree- The sad thing in our region is that there ts.”This remark launched a partnership are numerous facilities in the fringe areas striving in building a bigger, all-inclusive of Tshwane, with surrounding schools not hockey fraternity. We have taken hands to playing hockey and no skilled persons to form a circle of expertise and friendship, coach and guide our children. What comes including amongst others, Earl Kim-Fley to mind is the Tshwane indoor hall in Eers- (Indoor coach and head of hockey at High terust (Earl’s home town), The Indoor Sport School Montana), Pulane Mahlaku (valued Arena at UP Mamelodi, Mbolekwa Sport friend, club player, coach and Tshwane fa- Complex (Indoor hall and turf) in Atterid- cilities manager) and the team at Hockey geville. Company Tshwane and our 59 Tshwane Ti- We are so thankful to the various su- tans enrolled coaches for 2020.. ppliers and sponsors that have assisted us Our envisaged 2020 Mamelodi project in this mission, supplying us with the most was hampered by Covid19, but God provi- basic needs at a sponsored price. Thank you ded another opportunity to fulfil our dream: to TK Sports (Rassie Pieterse), Worth24 (Tar- we have formed a MOU with Prof Yvonne ryne Shuttleworth), Malik (Peter Wright), Paul, HOD: Sport, Rehabilitation and Den- Full Zone (Johan Kock) and OBO (Ruby Zi- tal Sciences, Tshwane University of Techno- mmerman). logy. The main focus of this project is firstly We have managed to buy the following to teach the students in these departments for each student: Composite hockey stick, to play and love hockey. This will be done ball, shins, mouthguard, socks and of cou- the same way we have been teaching chil- rse a Boithabiso branded hockey bag. In dren at various schools to grow passion for time we hope to buy Boithabiso their own our sport – by teaching them the nuances of clinic equipment (e.g. bibs, balls, cones, the game, including keeper skills. gazebo’s, branding etc.) but for now we are Once they are hockey players, we have happily carting ours up and down to the ve- approached Gary Dolley of SAHA develo- nue. As soon as we have complied to all Co- pment to make them do the online level 0 vid19 regulatory measures, we will launch course for free, giving them a qualification our dream in 2020, in the first week of De- to take with them into their various profes- cember. What a great way for the students sions after completing their studies. to end a dismal year, with depression being We want to go full circle – on identifying replaced by joy. junior talent, we have negotiated with pri- The name of the project is Boitha- vate schools to assist these players to obtain biso, meaning (loosely translated): Joy a good matriculation certificate followed or entertainment – to give joy, to have by a NSFAS sponsored study career. This joy, to bring joy. will mirror the relationship path Cobie has
15 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE HEALTH HINTS
LET’S TALK SPRINTING
Author: Shilo Ramdin Owner & Head Trainer at Strength Society and Performance Coach
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 16 s a coach and very very very part time runner, I understand the value of dynamic drills for both sprinting speed and power. However, I am always surprised when athletes—especially those who have been in the running game for some time—don’t understand why dynamic drills are essential for optimum performance.
The long and short of it is this: The movements an athlete works through in dynamic drills mimic each segment of movement in the sprint itself. Addi- tionally, they aid in mobility and “muscle memory”—which is to say, the more comfortable an athlete is in a certain position or specific movement, the more natural it will feel when applied Aduring a game and or practice. There are five primary biomotor abilities every sprinter must work on in training: speed, strength, endurance, flexibility and coordination. Dynamic drills not only strengthen these abilities for a sprinter, they also help develop agility and mobility. For example, a popular dynamic drill is Hurdle Overs. It has several variations, but they all serve a specific purpose. When athletes lift their legs over the hurdle, it opens up their hip flexors, stretches their muscles and forces core stabilization, while simultaneously allowing them to feel the often unnoticed shifting of the hips mid-sprint.
There are many dynamic drills an athlete can perform, and each serves a specific purpose. They include acceleration drills to build the drive phase of the sprint; start drills to become com- fortable exploding out of the blocks; and speed drills to build the swiftness necessary to win.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
A-SKIPS WALL DRILLS HURDLE MOBILITY DRILLS BENCH JUMPS HILL SPRINTS This simple yet effective This is another great drill These drills serve as a Bench Jumps are great This classic drill is great movement is great for to promote explosive move- great warm-up for both for preparing the body for both sprinters and ment. Like the A-Skip, the leg hurdlers and sprinters. My for ballistic movement, endurance runners. priming the body for must come up at a 90-degree two favorite variations are especially coming out of Hill Runs are essential explosive movement. angle. The difference is that the lead leg and the alter- the blocks. Place one foot to prep the body for the The Skip exaggerates you are leaning forward. The nating leg. Both do an ex- on the bench at the ball of drive phase of the sprint, that push-off force from power line—spine, hip and cellent job of opening up your foot. Push off in an but they’re also great for the ground at the ball of leg alignment—should be at a the hip flexors, which aids upward motion, swinging building power for en- the foot. When you do 45-degree angle. Hands shou- mobility. This is usually your arms in opposition. durance runners in their this drill, it’s important ld be placed firmly against a bigger issue for female Point your toe in midair, final kick. Hill Runs are to maintain dorsifle- the wall. Heels should be athletes, so I have my girls then flex your foot before best done on soft sur- slightly off the ground, just run through these drills landing back on the ben- faces such as grass and xion in your foot as you enough to slide a piece of every day. Another rea- ch. Do this 10 to 15 times dirt, but they can also be raise it to your opposite paper underneath. Engage son hurdle mobility drills for each leg. Due to the simulated on a treadmill. knee. Keep an erect tor- your core the entire time, and are great for all athletes is height they can get when Lean slightly into the hill so and swing your hands don’t allow your hips to slip that core stabilization is pushing off the bench, both going up and coming in opposition to your back. Progression of the drill needed to execute the mo- this movement is always down. Stabilize your core legs. Begin by marching moves from a simple March vements properly. Main- a little nerve-wracking for and maintain the power slowly, feeling out each through to a 4-count switch. tain an erect posture and my girls at the beginning line like you did with the Stay on the balls of your feet lift your leg high to swing of the season; so I start Wall Drill. Hill Runs can portion of the drill. Once and maintain dorsiflexion of it over the hurdle. Your them out on shorter plat- be done on their own or you have it down, pro- the foot. hips should not pivot. Go forms until they are com- as a warm-up to a main ceed to the Skip. through the drill slowly at fortable with the drill. set. first. As you become more comfortable with the mo- vement, pick up the pace.
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HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 18 SMARTBALL
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Repetition of skills and measurement thereof are the keys to success. The App software allows you to learn the coolest skills and tricks from professional hockey players all over the world. Measure how fast you dribble, how many times you can tap the ball in the air or how many V drags you can do. How? Just with your mobile device, the Smartball App and the SmartBall. The App uses the camera of the mobile devices to link up with the Smartball and the App captures and tracks the movements made by the ball
The App has been loaded with skills to help you train your technique and improve you game. Complete the drills and earn points to customize your avatar to look just like you. The App will keep track of your stats and when you earn a new high score, share it with the world with a ‘prove it’ video.
Training of the basic skills is a fundamental of hockey but is often overlooked. The Smartball gives players a platform to train and de- velop these basic skills in a fun, interactive and competitive way. Coordination, Hand speeds and ball control will be tested and improved everytime a drill is completed on the App. Progress is tracked within the app and as your skills grow, you earn points to build up your own avatar.
Training at home or by yourself has never been more exciting or easy.
19 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE SPOTLIGHT ON
A CHARTED ACCOUNTANT AND A NATIONAL HOCKEY PLAYER PHUMZ MBANDE’S JUGGLE WITH WORK HOCKEY & COVID 19 - Catarina dos Santos
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 20 hilst catching up with for her Olympic preparations, however, South African Wo- she later felt differently. Despite having men’s goalkeeper, attended training sessions with a highly Phumelela Mbande, it regarded Dutch Goalkeeper Coach, Mban- was clear to see that de found it challenging to be away from she was energized and her teammates and coaching staff during readyW for all the preparations that are cur- this time. “I realized from a personal pre- rently in motion for the upcoming Olym- paration perspective that the worst thing pics Games. The Olympic Games were due I could have done was to be alone during to begin in July this year but were postpo- an Olympic preparation period. I was so ned to 2021 due to the pandemic. This was anxious about joining so late in the pre- a big deal for every athlete involved and paration process. In hindsight, it was not with no doubt, a big deal for Mbande as the greatest call on my part because I felt well but not in the way one would expect. the fact that I was not a part of the team Mbande was offered an opportunity to during that period and to not physically work in the Netherlands, showing us all be there makes the world of a difference. once again how dedicated our national I felt out of place and I was questioning players are on and off the field, juggling my own dedication to the team and ques- training, studies, work, and personal life. tioning if I should have missed so much Graduated as a Charted Accountant, with because of work. I decided because of a degree from the University of Pretoria, those reasons that I would never do that Mbande flew to The Netherlands for four to myself again, especially during the pre- months of work in her field, two of whi- paration for something as big as the Olym- ch involved her missing training arrange- pics.” ments for the SA Women’s team. “Every Mbande’s attitude towards the challen- space I walk into, I make it clear who I am ges that life has thrown at her from all and what I do. If it’s an accounting space, angles in the past two years, has been I say ‘hey, I’m a national player’ and in a positive and has highlighted just how de- hockey space, I say ‘hey, I am a charted ac- dicated she is to her team and has shone countant’, so that everyone is always awa- as spotlight on the hard work in takes for re of the context of my situations.” national hockey players in South Africa to Her community showed her genuine prepare for events like the Olympic Ga- support, with National Coach, Rob van mes. Mbande mentioned her thoughts on Ginkel, encouraging her to grab her great how she views success for South African work opportunities with both hands and Women’s Hockey in the next few years by her work community happy to make ar- saying that she hopes that SA Women’s rangements should Mbande need to re- Hockey can secure enough funding to turn to South Africa to serve her team. participate in more international play in However, despite the COVID 19 Pandemic order to improve experience. “I think our effects on general life and mental heal- team has what it takes but lacks the inter- th and the subsequent postponement of national experience that opponents, like the Olympic Games, Mbande said that the Netherlands, has. I think our team can she could not be happier with the bigger still move into Top 10 in the international picture. “For me personally, the postpone- ranking in the next 10 years. Mbande also ment was the best thing that could have hopes that the general hockey community ever happened.” will begin to view Hockey Transformation Initially, Mbande thought that going to as less taboo and this may aid in the suc- the Netherlands would be the best move cess of the future of SA Hockey.
21 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE HEALTH HINTS
MENTAL FITNESS IN SA HOCKEY by Iain Shippey
ears unashamedly strea- Mental fitness has a number of key that they have played in. As the Boks, med down my face when I ingredients: heart, resilience, agility, irre- we were regaining our ascendency and watched the first episode pressible hope and passion, humility, vul- were looking to reinforce our dominan- of ‘Chasing the Sun’. I was nerability, trust, focus, grit, non-retalia- ce upfront. Boom – welcome the bomb blown away as I listened to tion when provoked, ruthless execution, squad! We coupled forward brutality with the story of how Rassie and the essential skill to shut out the noise Pollards boot, Faf’s unpredictability and TJacques uprooted their families from Ire- and the ability to stay competitive until the speed and creativity of our outside ba- land in their aspiration to be catalysts in the final whistle. Hockey, like rugby is a cks. the resurrection of SA Rugby. The rete- team sport. Everyone in the team contri- As SA hockey players we have never lling of Siya Kolisi’s passage to being Bok butes to the team culture, but the coach, been world champs, we have the same Sa- captain hallmarked how we are gradually management team and leadership group ffa DNA as the Boks but have never worn transforming as a nation. are the primary architects and custodians global crowns. We need to box smart and Like you, I am deeply invested in SA of team culture. I feel incredibly honou- set stretching yet realistic goals. We need sport and feel privileged to have worked red to be part of the amazing management to see Tokyo 2021 as a base camp, take our closely with two of our national teams sin- team that Garreth Ewing has assembled as learnings into the ’22 Commonwealth Ga- ce 2004. My memories of my uncle, Kim, our SA Men’s team prepares for the Tokyo mes in Birmingham, keep climbing the commentating on the Springboks 1981 Olympics. Craig Carolan and I team up to World ranking in the Paris ’24 Olympics tour are etched in my memory banks. My serve a purpose in the squad, Craig works and give the hockey world something to role with the team was different, I had the with mental performance and I work in think about in the LA Olympics in ’28. We indescribable privilege of playing a men- the leadership and culture space. need to share a dream, embark on a pro- torship role to many of the Boks from 2004 Watch and re-watch ‘Chasing the Sun’, cess and build on the extraordinary ingre- through 2015; including being in France feast on the richness of SA’s diversity and dients present in our amateur context. in 2007 when we secured the Web Ellis tro- be invigorated as you are reawakened to Mental Fitness is a fascinating and ex- phy for a second time. I have experienced our resilience as a people. We however pansive topic, in this article I will aspire mental fitness up close, rubbed shoulders as SA Hockey are in VERY different pre- to give one or two pointers to different with greatness and been in the inside of dicament to the Springboks. The Boks categories of hockey lovers, reading this those extraordinary minds. have won three out of the six World Cups article.
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 22 Young Players Elite Players Parents and Coaches
Don’t compare yourself to others, see Build upon our DNA, develop mindful- What does your voice sound like to the yourself as unique. ness. players?
When enjoying some down time with Don’t underestimate the extraordinary Timothy’s Gallwey (1974) was as forerun- Jean de Villiers, I asked him which DNA we have as South African’s. Some of ner in writing books about performance. players he looked up to in world rugby. us have resilience that came at great cost, In his book The Inner Game of Tennis he He told me that he studied his opposite forged in the furnace of injustice and describes this formula: no, but never got fixated with them. He apartheid, eina! Others of us have trekker had to play against the Sonny Bills and blood and are offspring of the 70 000 boer Performance = Potential - Interference other top no 12’s in the world. If they farmers who brought their A game when were larger than life in his own mind, he the numbers were stacked against them. The single greatest thing that hinders per- would struggle to dominate them men- They fought fearlessly against over half a formance is a poor state of mind. How we tally or on the field. million soldiers dressed in red, represen- communicate with athletes plays a funda- ting the British Crown, while their farms mental role in an athletes self-belief and Play with older people and more talented were being scotched and their wives and confidence in their potential. Many coa- people, every opportunity you get. children were imprisoned on POW camps. ches and parents unknowingly interfere with players at critical times in pre-com- AB de Villers hustled, he never let up, he Mark William, professor of Clinical Psy- petition or during a competition. begged his older brother to play garden chology at the University of Oxford defi- cricket with the older kids. As a lightie nes mindfulness as “lucid awareness’ – Scarpina and Tagini (2017) explain the you need to face thunderbolts from older sense of knowing what you are doing as it Stroop test as one of the most replicated kids, it will take your game to another is happening, moment by moment”. psychological tests. This test demonstra- level. I am currently devouring USA tes that cognitive/mental interference soccer megastar, Megan Rapinoe’s book. Mindfulness is non-judgmental in nature slows down the physical reaction time of a Her older brother Brian was her hero, and brings an awareness of oneself, in- task. Interference will slow down and in- she mixed it up with him and was always cluding awareness of perceptions, body terfere with the processing speed of athle- training with him; before long she and sensations, thoughts, and emotions. The tes during games. This ties into split focus her twin sister were playing in the boy’s practice of mindfulness results in grea- and multi-tasking, and is thus relevant in teams a few age groups above their own ter insight into your levels of confidence the sporting context. age group. She also writes about the won- and how you feel about yourself. It reveals der of being a twin….. your thought patterns. Communication
Professor Williams gives this enlightening Coach Reed Maltbie (2016) notes that me- insight: thods of effective communication include: 1. Getting onto the athlete’s level (crouch down when engaging with young “Only when we see these habits of the athletes); mind clearly, and recognise the many ways 2. No sunglasses (while communicating a in which we might we drawn into their critical point); traps, can we disengage from them and 3. Make eye contact; free ourselves from their power”. 4. Ask questions.
“Understanding your own mind – and Building upon this, John O’ Sullivan (2016) how it unwittingly ties itself in knots – is highlights Jerry Lynch’s use of the Rule one of the central skills of mindfulness. of ONE to guide his interactions with the At its core, mindfulness, is about accep- athletes he coaches. He aspires to: ting that we are neither perfect or all-k- • make ONE comment; nowing creatures. Our minds can often • to each ONE in his squad/team; be noisy and irrational places. But in the • ONE time at each practice (or quite spaces in between can lie momen- every second practice if working ts of piercing insight. We need to change with a large team). the atmosphere in our minds and hearts” - Mark Williams When coaches speak intentionally, mea- ningfully, and mindfully that create Seek out mentors for your children and players. echoes that last a lifetime (Changing the Game). During lockdown many of the coaches in our national structures were working hard behind the scenes. One of those coaches was a dear friend and colleague, Marce- Thought leaders make use of the Magic lle Keet. Marcelle and I teamed up for some Zoom calls with the younger SA girls’ Question when working with athletes. teams. Through, my friendship with our men’s captain, Tim Drummond, I asked his fiancée, Eva de Goede who happens to be the Dutch national captain and dou- “One thing I wish my coaches knew about ble Olympic gold medalist to join us on a Zoom call with the u17 and u18 SA girls’ me that would help him/her coach me be- squads. Eva was amazing, she is passionate about SA, is learning Zulu and poured tter is______” into our next generation of players. She passed on amazing advice and I suspect that that Zoom call will live with this age group for a long time. Coaches, give it a whirl, Now personalise that, “What is the step out, ask mentors to invest in your players. one thing you wish I knew about you that would help me coach you better is In conclusion, on Monday, I asked the NZ, Crusaders rugby team, mental coach ______” John Quinn, who sits on our Thincsport advisory board to give some input to our Men’s leadership group. He shared these wise words, ‘Professionalism, isn’t prima- “What is the one thing you wish I knew rily about money, it is about a state of mind.’ about you that would help me encourage you better/challenge you more ______” World watch out, we are chasing the sun to Tokyo in 2021, and going from strength to strength in Paris and LA.
23 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE JUNIOR HOCKEY ON THE RISE.
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 24 “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness.” - Desmond Tutu
ight months after the initial The HJ team: logistic support, HJ has partnered instatement of the national TravelPA (www.travelpa.co.za) to manage lockdown, there is a glimmer Reza Rosenburg, a former National In- all events wrt any travel issues for HJ. of hope. There is a sense of door and Outdoor player, current GM and TravelPA has extensive experience or- community, as we restart po- soon to be MD of ART Hockey to be laun- ganising tours for both schools and youth ckets of activity. The Hockey ched soon, the umbrella company for all groups, both domestically and internatio- Ecommunity is no exception to this. This their Hockey activities. nally. community is comprised of a group of With the 2020 HJ Junior Cup events optimists, survivors, steering a course of Melrick Maddocks, a current SA Men’s in- done and dusted in the NC/Free State and hope and optimism, in a rough sea. door player, is Reza’s right-hand man and Gauteng, it was been an exciting tourna- Hockey Junction, soon to be managed has played a crucial role in launching this ment which has lived up to its objectives under the ART Hockey Portfolio, has been HJ initiative. and provided many with the light they had a become of hope and opportunity. been seeking. The impact of the Hockey Hockey Junction is a business foun- Key Stats Junction Junior Cup has been a positi- ded by Allistar Fredericks, former Natio- Over twenty-five franchises which have ve one for players, parents and coaches nal player and coach to emulate what has been formed in less than three months participating in a structured franchise been happening with regards to franchi- Junior League. The tournament creates a sed Hockey in South Africa, much like Over 1800 players involved in Hockey platform for players from different back- PSI, JHL, ECH, Hockey 5’s and other va- Junction related events grounds to equally compete at a compe- rious hockey activities provided by indivi- titive level which also helps enhance the duals, but with the focus being on areas Over 60 franchised staff members coaching experience. in the country where Junior Hockey was The Hockey Junction program for 2021 non-existent. Over 130 new employment opportunaties has been carefully planned and will ho- Steered by Reza Rosenburg, the GM created through the HJ Junior cup, from pefully follow the success of the current of the various Hockey companies run by Franchise coaches/Managers, umpires, junior cup. Allistar, their pro-active nature has fa- medics, vendors to tech table staff throu- With the HJ Pre Season Leagues ki- cilitated running Hockey Skills training ghout the HJ Junior Cup-Series 1 cking off in January, 2021, HJ has some Academies, organizing Indoor events and other major events scheduled for 2021. arranging exhibition matches , running The founders hail from Kimberley, of outdoor tournaments/festivals from ju- Northern Cape. Thus, it was only fitting HJ Inter-City Outdoor Championship nior to senior levels and then running one that the Hockey Junction Junior Cup was U12/14 Girls and Boys: 19th-22nd March of the biggest Hockey Clubs in SA, Beau- kickstarted in the Diamond City on 13 March 2021 in JHB lieu Hockey Academy at which Rosenberg November. With four franchises in the takes charge as the Junior Club Manager. combined Northern Cape and Free State U16/18 Boys and Girls: 23rd-27th April Their new HJ product is based on a region, the first weekend lived up to ex- 2021 franchised model with Franchised teams pectations with back-to-back hockey ac- in Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Free State, Nor- tion across the board. All of the franchises will go head- to- head. thern Cape and Mpumalanga. Manager Melrick Maddocks described Over 1500 players will compete at various Unlike other similar endeavours, the the first weekend as an exciting one, “You venues across Johannesburg over those core goal of Hockey Junction is to em- could see that the kids haven’t played in scheduled dates. This will be an experien- power the various franchise holders to be some time and as a result engaged in more ce of a lifetime. Stay tuned. hockey entrepreneurs. They seek to grow 1v1 battles, however, some good goals the game into a sporting code that could were scored.” The reality is the opportuni- HJ Inter-City Indoor Championships be, both self-sustaining and come closer ty to get onto the astro turf and play was HJ has created another revenue stream for to commercial independence. There is the real gift for these young players. all Franchise owners and for them to in- one key and non-negotiable quality: they Gauteng boasts the most franchises troduce the wonderful game of Indoor to had to be committed to growing the game. with ten in the region, closely followed all these kids who has never been exposed In addition to the key objectives, the by the Eastern Cape with six. Limpopo to the game franchise system is there to form a part- with 2, the Northern Cape and Free Sta- nership with the local clubs forming a re- te region with four franchises, and finally U12/14 Boys and Girls: 24th-27th Septem- lationship between the parties. Kroonstad with has one franchise. ber 2021 Strategically, the goal was to identify The fixtured weekends were “crackers”, overlooked areas within hockey hubs and as described by the managers. Maddocks U16/18 Boys and Girls: 1st-4th October empower passionate people who were ei- says, “Structurally teams were better, and 2021 ther ‘outside’ of the system or forgotten. the players were technically sharper and Their brief outlines the need to recruit more precise in the way they went about All of the franchises will go head- to- local players who are passionate about it [the games]”. head. Over 1500 players will compete at the game while creating a franchise iden- Reza Rosenberg has managed many various venues across Johannesburg over tity. Parallel to that was the idea to embed more tournaments, including the recent those scheduled dates. This will be an ex- the franchise into its local community. PSI All Star Event. When asked about the perience of a lifetime. Stay tuned. They seek to do this through training at unseen work at Hockey Junction, he said, local clubs, working with local vendors “Admin, admin and more admin to run a (coaches, first aid, kit, to name a few) tournament within the Covid – 19 proto- and to create sustainable, long-term rela- cols”. Like Walt Disney said: If you tionships. To make things a bit easier wrt travel can dream it, you can do it!!
25 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE
THETHE BOVELANDERBOVELANDER FOUNDATIONFOUNDATION EMPOWERINGEMPOWERING THROUGHTHROUGH HOCKEYHOCKEY
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 26 loris Jan Bovelander may have “The good thing about hockey in India written the book on how to is that you have all these kids playing ho- retire at the top of his game. ckey at the school level, and there is talent At the 1996 Olympics, he ins- as well. In our programme, the top two pired a come-from-behind layers are regional development centres victory against Spain to help and the hockey academies...and if you are Fthe Dutch land the Olympic gold. This good, we try to nurture these children to was also his last game for Netherlands, re- make a living out of hockey by playing at tiring from the top of the game at the age the state, national and international le- of just 30. However, this was not the end vel.” of his involvement in the game with va- The Foundation, which was originally rious roles with his beloved Bloemendaal. known as One Million Hockey Legs, relies It is his foundation though that keeps him on significant assistance and input from most busy with a focus on development of the locals. underprivileged kids in India, through the “We definitely have local partners be- game of hockey. He sat down with Ernst cause that’s one of the biggest criteria of Baart of Studio Hockey to chat all about the success of a project. his foundation and the impact of the “In Jharkhand, we have partnered with game. CInI (Collectives for Integrated Livelihood “At the 2014 World Cup in Holland, I Initiatives), which is a partner of Tata met a couple of Indian guys. I had some Trust. CInI does a lot of work already in discussions with some others as well agriculture, education.” about hockey in general. I met someone Bovelander is also speaks importantly from the government as well, and they about the role of the Hockey Family. told me that there was an MoU signed “Hockey is a very strong community. between the Dutch government and the It’s a small community, but it’s a strong Indian government about sports develop- community. All over the world, I met a ment. So, the Indian guys suggested that lot of people with the same attitude, same I do something in hockey. We started just desire. Also, because the sport is small, by doing some promotional work. you must be together. Otherwise, there’s “For me, India was always one of the nothing left. best countries to come to, to play hockey. The country suits me, because of, maybe, “I think for the hockey family, promo- the chaotic life on the streets, the colours ting hockey at the grassroots level and the and everything, the noise. It’s about who I basics of hockey, is always the most im- am as well. I’m also a bit chaotic. I like lots portant because without any joy that the of movement. And of course, the enthu- children can get by playing together and siasm and spirit of hockey is always high being together, hockey will not exist. in India.” “I am Dutch, so I understand the re- This was the background for Bovelan- creational part of hockey. Also, in most of der’s foundation to start and armed with the hockey countries, Australia, England, this support the foundation has set about Belgium, Spain, Germany, they unders- on its vision: tand the social part of sports. So, you need “What we do is we build what we call to make sure that this hockey family stays pyramids of hockey with a big grassroots in that social part. programme, where hockey is used to de- “It’s not only the top that is important. velop children. We set up these program- However, you need the top as well. If the mes for underprivileged children and hockey stars are not there, who do you underprivileged young adults in the rural dream about? If you look at the children areas of India. Our biggest projects are in here in Holland, if you look at the children Jharkhand and Odisha, in a tribal area. in India, they need these heroes. That’s where we use hockey as a me- “So, you need both.” thod to change and develop children, so that they build self-esteem, learn some communication skills, leadership and all kinds of skills you learn directly from sports.
Follow on the Bovelander Foundation https://web.facebook.com/Bovelanderfoundation or visit bovelanderfoundation.com
27 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE
TRIBUTE TO TONY GODDING by Ken Borland
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 28 t’s doubtful whether Border ho- “Godders was great company, win or ckey – from primary school to lose, and one of the real gentlemen of senior provincial level – has ever the sport. He was incredibly unselfish had a greater benefactor than towards the game, be it men’s, women’s or Tony Godding, but ‘Godders’ was school’s hockey. He was a helluva lekker also a legend in South African guy, super intelligent and very well read Ihockey as a whole, so his passing in early on several topics. He was a rabid Arsenal November was a massive blow to all who supporter and knew music very well. love the game in this country. “He was competitive big time when it Godding represented Border as a de- came to hockey and a real student of the fender and once his playing days were game, which made him a great selector. over, he threw himself into contributing When we were on the national selection at so many other levels. His devotion panel together, he wanted to pick Jonty to Selborne College hockey - coaching Rhodes for Gavin Featherstone’s Atlanta them, tirelessly raising funds and ma- Olympics squad. Unfortunately Ali Ba- naging their AstroTurf - made them cher then stepped in and insisted Jonty one of the top school’s hockey teams in had to honour his cricket contract ins- the country, but he also served Border tead, but can you imagine Jonty and Greg Schools in several positions. Nicol striking together … ‘Beefy’ ended He then served as a SA Schools selec- as the leading goal scorer in the 1996 tor, and from there, Godding’s influence Olympics for the team that finished nin- spread to U21 hockey and he became th; just imagine how well we would have both a selector and head coach of the ju- done if Jonty had been alongside him?” nior internationals. Mike Bechet, legendary coach, recalled. He graduated to the same roles with the senior South African side, just reward Mike Cullen, another ace South Afri- for someone acknowledged as one of the can striker, paid touching tribute as well. most astute hockey brains going around. “What a legend and he can rest in pea- Steering minnows Border to the IPT tit- ce knowing that he has touched so many le in 2012 was proof of Godding’s special lives in so many ways, including mine. talents. Thank you Godders, until we meet again my good friend,” Cullen said. Former SA player Charlie Perreira, who went on to coach the national team Warren Boden, who laid the founda- as well, has fond memories of Godding’s tion for Jeppe High School’s hockey suc- pre-match strategy sessions and tells the cess and managed various teams with story of him trying to move bottle tops Godding as coach, pointed to his great around a table to map out his plan. With friend’s unselfishness and generosity. his trembling hands, there were often “Tony was a fantastic source of infor- ‘players’ who dropped off the side of the mation and so good at identifying skill field, but Godding’s tactics were always and talent. He was a fantastic friend, capably communicated and on the mark. genuine, hardworking and affable. An amazing man with incredible knowledge “Rest in peace Godders, a special hu- about just about anything, including po- man who gave so much. Still fresh in my litics and international relations; he was memory are your team talks at Queens- incredibly well read. mead, bottle tops on the board to explain our structure. You were such an influen- “In terms of hockey he always wanted ce in my life with your wise words,” Per- to move with the times and when he was reira said. in charge of the SA U21s I remember he insisted that they be based at Queens- Former Springbok goalkeeper Wayne mead in Durban, which was then the only Phillips pointed to the many players who- AstroTurf in the country, because it was se lives had been touched by Godding. a completely different entity to playing “What a legend of SA hockey God- on grass. He was always looking for new ders was. And he had a wealth of general approaches and wanted to break out of knowledge as well. He was a gentle but the mould. wise man who has surely left a massive impression on the lives of so many who “He was a hockey guru, he travelled he coached,” Phillips said. the world, went to a couple of Olympics Godding had been in poor health for and was always analysing other teams. nine days before his passing in East Lon- He was a true hockey scientist. But he don at the age of 85 and is remembered was also an incredibly generous and ac- and cherished as being a wonderful per- commodating person, always willing to son no matter how badly his team fared sacrifice his own comfort for the good of on the pitch. He was also rated as a fan- others. He will be sorely missed,” Boden tastic judge of hockey talent. said.
29 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE MEET OUR COVER STARS
Alex Brynn Cleak Steven Nicky Veto Kavanagh Namibian Paulo SA Womens SA Womens Indoor and SA Indoor Outdoor Indoor Outdoor Men Hockey Men
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 30 Steven Nompilo Thabang Bubbles Paulo Thenjwayo Modise Pitso SA Indoor Southern Southern Tshwane Hockey Men Gauteng Gauteng Titans
31 | HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE FEATURE
THE FIRST FAMILY OF NAMIBIAN HOCKEY MEET THE CORMACK’S
Many families will be pleased with one member of their pack achieving international ho- nours. A select few will benefit from a pair being involved at the same time. But an elite few will have the whole family wearing national blazers at the same time. Of course, that scenario is not a myth or fantasy for the Cormack family it is a reality. Arguably they are the first family of Namibian Hockey.
HOCKEY THE MAGAZINE | 32 any families will be plea- that I would struggle to play two minutes wanted to enjoy that moment together and at sed with one member before having a panic attack. But the first least soften their disappointment. “ of their pack achieving game against Czech Republic was obviou- It was a moment that the Youth Olympics international honours. sly a great opportunity to settle the nerves picked as their feel good moment of the en- A select few will benefit and focus! Its really cool to think I did that tire youth Olympics and a further reinforce- from a pair being invol- at 16!” ment of the family motto: “Play Hard, Honour vedM at the same time. But an elite few will It was not their first taste of the World God!”. It is also clear how important the fa- have the whole family wearing national bla- Cup though, with both Shayne and Jerrica mily values are to each member. zers at the same time. Of course, that scena- featuring at the 2011 Indoor Hockey World “We are a close-knit family,” shared Kiana rio is not a myth or fantasy for the Cormack Cup for Namibia after an administration “Having your family at each game is almost family it is a reality. Arguably they are the error by South Africa. Namibia took the the norm for us. We are all there to support first family of Namibian Hockey. opportunity with open arms, none more so one another whenever we can. When Jerrica Dad Trevor is the current National Men’s than Shayne who got a goal to her name, was left out of the 2018 World Cup squad, she Indoor and outdoor head coach, mom Shay- from a short corner stopped by Jerrica, so- put her own disappointment aside to be there ne is the head coach of the U18 side while mething that she could remind her family and support me and the team. She is a special also managing the Women’s indoor team. of forever! person and I’m so grateful for her!” Older sister Jerrica is a regular feature in Another fantastic display of the class the indoor and outdoor sides, while young of the Cormack family was when Shayne star Kiana already has International accola- led the team to the Youth Olympics and It is in the administration of the game that des to her name. following a remarkable moment after the the Cormack’s have shown their passion and If you hadn’t heard about the Cormack Zimbabwean game created an internet viral ability at arguably the highest level. Their family before the 2018 FIH indoor Hockey sensation, picked as one of the moments of Saints hockey club continues to be the best World Cup, the chances are you would have the tournament. club in Namibian Hockey both on the turf heard about them during. Kiana, at the age Speaking to Hockey the Magazine Edi- and on the court. While their Psi Franchise of 16, became a sensation ending the tour- tor Tyron Barnard during the Sportsways oozes class throughout proceedings on a con- nament as top goal scorer after Namibia African Hockey Summit a few month ago, sistent basis and is a regular contender in had shocked the world by qualifying for the Shayne shared what happened at that event. gold medal matches. tournament. Proving to be lethal from short “For me it was pretty awesome. Zimba- “Over the years I have understood that corners, the youngest Cormack was quickly bwe have often been the thorn in our side, hockey is an instrument,” says Shayne “an nicknamed Penalty Cormack. but at the Youth Olympic Games we played instrument to mould young people’s lives. We “Its still quite unbelievable, even though our last group against Zimbabwe. Both si- were blessed with a talent and are so fortuna- it was three years ago already,” shared Kiana des needed a positive result to get through te that we are able to put it to use in our lives.” “As soon as I go the award, I gave the glory to the top 8. Afterwards we got the result, There is no doubt in my mind that the to God. My opportunity is as a result of him. but we wanted to celebrate their journey as Cormack family are not just using their ins- I remember playing the first game worried well as our own. We are all African and we trument, they are conducting a symphony.
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