Posts by Jono Cook
Another top Hockey Saturday for Maritzburg College
AFFIES hockey has made strides over the years but on Saturday, 21 July 2018 the results belonged to one of the strongest hockey schools in the country as hosts Maritzburg College won 14 of 18 matches with the remainder reflecting three draws and one defeat.
The solitary Maritzburg College loss was the 4-3 defeat of coach Dave Pryke’s previously unbeaten second team, a fine achievement by Affies seconds who succeeded where a number of prominent hockey schools have failed.
Hockey skills are one thing. Having the vision to make maximum use of that skill is another.
Despite the overall Maritzburg College hockey success, first team coach and director of the sports code Dylan Coombes made a point of mentioning that the host teams had to work hard in the majority of matches before emerging victorious.
Herewith an edited extract of Coombes’ thoughts on the first team match:
College opened proceedings with a drag flick into the Affies net by G Will from their first penalty corner of the day.
The first half play continued to be dominated by College with Affies not posing much of a threat, and only a couple of half chances created. A goalmouth scramble saw SA U18 player Andre Bradford quick to pounce to put College 2-0 up at half-time.
Every successful hockey school appreciates that expert advice from qualified personnel is a prerequisite for a trouble-free season.
The second half was well controlled by College and the feeling was that they should have taken many more chances, especially from the number of penalty corners won. G Will scored his second goal of the day with another well executed penalty corner drag flick that sealed the match 3-0.
Hockey is a fast-paced game that employs rolling substitutions. Taking a break recharges the batteries.
College showed good quality for the 3-0 win and will be looking to build on a solid performance when playing away this weekend at Pretoria Boys’ High.
MARITZBURG COLLEGE HOCKEY RESULTS vs AFFIES
1sts 3-0
2nds 3-4
3rds 2-1
4ths 0-0
5ths 3-2
U16A 3-0
B 6-0
C 3-1
D 2-0
E 4-0
F 0-0
G 1-0
U14A 5-1
B 3-0
C 1-1
D 5-0
E 4-2
F 1-0
If you don’t connect effectively with team-mates chances are you’ll lose your way.
Hilton College soccer teams overshadowed by Kearsney College
THE Hilton College first soccer team, as of 21 July 2018 have played 8 won 5 drawn 1 and lost 3.
The season started well with a six-match unbeaten run.
On Saturday, 21 July 2018 at Hilton it was very much Kearsney College’s day.
Kearsney won 15 of the 20 matches against Hilton with the firsts taking the premier encounter 1-0 and the U16A and U15A clashes by the same margin with Kearsney coming out tops 4-1 in the U14A match-up.
Hilton won 2 of the 8 matches in the senior age group – the fifths and sevenths coming out tops and the seconds getting a draw.
Soccer success comes from clear, comfortable vision both on and off the ball.
In the U16s it was four wins from four matches for Kearsney.
In the U15s the Hilton B side won but the three other teams in the age group lost to Kearsney.
In the U14s the Hilton U14D side had a goalless draw but the three teams above them lost.
To ensure a platform for soccer success first take care of your defensive systems.
Next up For Hilton soccer is what should be an entertaining trip to St Charles on Saturday, 28 August.
HILTON COLLEGE SOCCER RESULTS
(to date)
First team
Friendlies
vs Treverton 2-0
vs Linpark 3-0
Festival
vs Empangeni 0-0
vs Brettonwood 1-0
vs Thomas More 1-0
KO round 1-0
KO round 1-4
Sat 21 July
vs Kearsney 0-1
Upcoming
Sat 28 July vs St Charles (A)
Tues 31 July vs Westville (A)
Sat 11 Aug vs Michaelhouse (A)
Sat 1 Sept vs Northwood (H)
Sat 8 Sept vs Kearsney (A)
Saturday 21 July 2018 at home to Kearsney
1sts 0-1
2nds 0-0
3rds 0-1
4ths 0-2
5ths 5-1
6ths 2-4
7ths 4-1
8ths 2-3
U16A 0-1
U16B 0-4
U16C 4-7
U16D 0-5
U15A 0-1
U15B 3-1
U15C 2-3
U15D 2-3
U14A 1-4
U14B 0-1
U14C 1-2
U14D 0-0
Soccer, like life, comes with its fair share of bumps and bruises. Time out to refresh and rejuvenate is a must.
Hilton College first team starting XI vs Kearsney
- William Hoole
- Freddie Steenfeldt-Kristensen
- Michael Makris (capt)
- Lwandilulwazi Ndlovu
- Tanaka Matsa
- Darrel Nkomo
- Kopano Segoale
- Simi Bhembe (vice-capt)
- Sicelo Mahlangu
- Sebego Seabi
- William RawKearsney College firsts soccer team
1 Jethro Strydom
2 Aidan Bossert
3 Luke Gibbon
4 Gcina Gumede (capt)
5 Christopher Kiggen
6 Fin McLean
7 Joshua Barrett
8 Jordan Kellaway (vice-capt)
9 Ayoola Morakinyo
10 Liam Maguire
11 Ben Proctor
12 Jordan Baker (sub)
13 Thobani Xhakaza (sub)
14 Lwazi Gwebu (sub)
15 Cameron Whittaker (sub)
16 Nkateko Khoza (sub)
17 Menzi Mhlungu (sub)
Luyanda a Prince among KZN10 schoolboy sportsmen
11 CONSECUTIVE school terms of first team sport… KZN10.com would love to know if any boys of the KZN10 can beat, match or come close to the feat achieved by Prince Mazeka of St Charles College.
The Prince story is surprising in part and fascinating in many.
Natural talent is not scarce in the Class of 10 KZN schools – never has been nor ever will be – but these fine educational institutions’ primary purpose, as much as we KZN schoolboy sports fans are sometimes forced to admit (rather grudgingly it must be said)… Yes it is primarily about progress in the classroom.
Martin Ashworth feature image: Blessed with natural athleticism… always a thrill to watch… Luyanda ‘Prince’ Mazeka of St Charles College.
So, think for a moment of three or four first team practices every week since the third term of grade 9 (going into – at this moment – Prince’s final term of first team sport)… the off-field gym training, team video analysis sessions, painful injuries that make time spent in the classroom physically difficult to endure… and so on. Undaunted, Prince has soldiered on.
St Charles College’s multi-code first team sports star Prince Mazeka alongside Saint Marcellin Champagnat, founder of Marist Brothers, the statue blessed by Cardinal Wilfred Napier on 15 September 2006. Photo Jono Cook
Luyanda “Prince” Mazeka, born in Kokstad on 25 April 2000 of parents Herbert and Nonzuzo Mazeka and younger sibling of sisters Babalwa and Akhona, has taken this journey and emerged from it with the grace, humbleness and a sincere likeability that draws one to him, yet it’s clear that underneath lies an inner strength of character that has ensured his academics haven’t fallen away.
As mentioned, one of the reasons for this KZN10.com interview with Prince is that he is now embarking on his 11th consecutive term of first team sport – across three codes – firstly soccer, then basketball, then rugby.
It is his 11th and last, as the grade 12 Prince Mazeka isn’t eligible for the fourth term Stayers basketball season.
POETRY IN MOTION: Prince Mazeka vs Clifton – an athlete who excels in football, rugby and basketball.
Photo Martin Ashworth
If you have watched Prince playing any of the three you will have marvelled at his natural balance, agility and – the hallmark of the exceptionally talented – the appearance of having so much time on his hands that he is operating in slow motion compared to his opponents. Yet it is all lightning quick – with those around him scrambling to keep the pace.
The first team appearances started in grade 9 (third term, 2015) when the Prince of KZN10 schoolboy sportsmen made his debut for the Saints firsts soccer team. It was the Pietermaritzburg High Schools Football Association Cup – more commonly known as the Maritzburg Cup.
“I was very nervous, my first time in a first team shirt,” says this quietly spoken, infinitely polite and humble young man.
“It was a key match in the Group stage of the event and every match, every goal, every point counted. We finished second in our Group to qualify for the semi-finals. In the semis we won on penalties to reach the final, against Maritzburg College, which we won.
Clear communication is the foundation of every team’s success.
“I scored the winning goal in that final against Maritzburg College. How did that feel? Nothing can explain the feeling I felt at that moment.” Indeed, no greater thrill could ever be hoped for from a left wing and striker of the Prince pedigree.
Asked to describe how the goal came about, it is clear that Prince remembers it like yesterday. “It was a throw-in deep in the Maritzburg College half. One of my team-mates flicked it on and the ball landed just outside the big box. I hit it on the bounce and goal time it was. I’ve still got my winners’ medal at my family’s home in Pietermaritzburg.”
Time on the ball: Football is The ONE thing for Luyanda Prince Mazeka.
Photo Martin Ashworth
Saints first team coach Gary Ritchie on Prince the soccer talent:
Gary: “Prince has played 1st team football since Maritzburg Cup in grade 9. He is a flair footballer who has the ability to change matches, he can kick equally with both feet and his explosive speed is his greatest attribute. Prince has a superb attitude and even as a youngster in the team, the seniors embraced his drive. He scored the winner against Maritzburg College in the Maritzburg Cup final. There is no doubt that he could play professional football one day.”
Praise indeed.
Next up for Prince was firsts basketball in grade 10. “I started off playing cricket at Saints, in grade 8 and a bit of 9 before switching to basketball. Almost all my Saints friends played basketball on the weekends (Prince is a boarder) and I’d join the other boarders playing socially. My love for the game grew to the point where I wanted to play seriously.”
Poise, fleet of foot and sleight of hand, Prince Mazeka – here vs Maritzburg College – has thrilled basketball fans this year.
And so it was, with Prince lighting up the packed stands at the Saints indoor arena, the epic Alan Paton Hall derbies at Maritzburg College – and theatres of schoolboy basketball further afield with his prowess in the point guard and shooting guard positions.
Saints first team basketball head coach Darren Holcomb, a former national star and St Charles College head of Upper School, reserves high praise for the Prince.
Balance, keeping the ball alive, attacking from deep after fielding errant exit kicks… Prince Mazeka is the complete package, is a joy to watch. In action here against Clifton College on Old Orchards at Saints.
Photo Martin Ashworth
“Luyanda has had an excellent basketball year and is to be commended for his attitude and determination to succeed. He has been a centre-piece in our offence as well as a key component of our defensive structure. He has excellent positioning – and the ability to make the outside shot consistently and get to the hoop. He is deceptively quick and has the ability to put his defensive marker under pressure. As one of the two captains of the team, he has been a pleasure to work with and is a major reason for the 2018 team’s success.”
For no higher praise could a young man wish.
The third leg of the Prince hat-trick was first XV rugby – in his grade 11 year (2017).
(Of great – and surprise – interest to me was the news that Luyanda Prince Mazeka and Maritzburg College head prefect and first team rugby eighthman and captain Ntuthuko Mchunu are childhood friends, best friends and next-door neighbours in the PMB suburb of Napierville).
“We were at Piet Retief Primary School and grew up together, played sports together since we were little kids. He’s a great friend of mine to this day.”
That’s the magic of KZN10 schoolboy sport – it’s about the friends made… the results soon fade.
NEXT-DOOR NEIGHBOURS AND LIFELONG FRIENDS are Ntuthuko Mchunu the Maritzburg College head prefect and first XV No 8 and captain, and Prince Mazeka. Photo Martin Ashworth
“Getting back to my rugby at Saints I had played A team through the age groups and count myself blessed to have enjoyed two years of first team rugby at fullback.”
This is the Prince that Jono Cook has seen more of: And Prince is as apt a name I can think of in recalling how the fullback glides over the turf, the perfect balance, the electric acceleration, the inside and outside breaks, the steps cutting the opposition to threads, the beautiful timing of the pass, the wonderful timing in kicking the ball out of hand and from place-kicks. And it’s not just the good stuff on attack – plenty of hard tackles too when the occasion demanded it. Without a shadow of doubt My Prince of KZN10 fullbacks.
As good as the other Saints first XV players were, it was Prince who first came to mind when I looked forward to a match. Prince, of those guys you never tire of watching because, like the opposition, you are never quite sure what the number 15 is going to come up with next – and invariably it was pretty damn good.
A sports match is fraught with uncertainties. Your vision mustn’t be one of them.
Here’s what Saints first XV co-coach and backline specialist, the former Michaelhouse star centre, Nick Jackson, has to say about my KZN10 Prince of fullbacks.
“I have had the pleasure of coaching Prince for the last two years for the first rugby side. Prince is an incredible natural sportsman, if you ask him to learn something new he is able to pick it up almost immediately. A complete attacking force from fullback that can kick the ball a mile or glide his way through would-be tacklers and leave them in his wake. He is defensively solid, and consistently makes correct decisions on the field. His greatest attribute is that he is an upstanding young man who is willing to listen and learn, as well as making others in his team raise their level of play.”
BEYOND PASSIONATE: Euphoric St Charles College basketball fans celebrate victory in the Alan Paton Hall Maritzburg College.
Photo Jono Cook
Wow! That’s way better than I could put it, but then I guess Jacko has spent so much time watching and coaching the Prince he would be in a better position to catch the essence so well.
So with such a range of skill-sets packed into one lithe frame, which is the sport that Prince loves the most?
“I love all three for different reasons, but I have to say that if I had to choose, soccer comes first. I think soccer is my best sport and I’ve accomplished more with it as far as making provincial teams is concerned – I’ve played for KZN teams since grade 8 and this year I hope to be selected for KZN U19.”
* KZN Inland and KZN Coastal are combined under one provincial umbrella in soccer, as is rugby, while hockey and cricket have gone the KZN Inland and KZN Coastal route. And unlike provincial schoolboy rugby, hockey and cricket, soccer is U19.
Every schoolboy sportsman needs support structures and when asked the question Prince pointed to his family in the first instance. “My parents and sisters have been a big help in supporting me, they come to watch me play and it makes me proud to play in front of them.”
Apart from his SCC coaches, a coach in soccer who has had the most influence on Prince is Olwethu Ntlahla .
“When I was in grade 6 at Piet Retief Primary School, Mr Ntlahla taught me the basics of football, how to read the game – he gave me the best foundation I could have hoped for.”
SAFE AS HOUSES: As much as a rugby fullback is an attacking weapon, his first duty is to ensure that team-mates feel secure in their last line of defence.
An influential basketball mentor? “Mr (Darren) Holcomb and his first team assistant coach Mr Ayanda Shange. I didn’t know a lot about basketball, it was the newest of the three first team sports I play, and I didn’t have the solid foundation of the basics in me as I had with soccer and rugby.
“So there was quite a bit to learn, catch-up training and basketball game and skills education to do. Mr Holcomb and Mr Shange always found the time to show me the finer points of the game and were always there to answer my questions about aspects of the game that I wasn’t sure of.”
Prince was pretty specific on the key personnel who piloted his soccer and basketball education to the greatest degree, but when asked about specific coaches on the rugby front it brought a frown of sorts.
A wonderful-to-watch attacking fullback he may be, but when it comes to cross-cover and tackling a flying Northwood Knight, Prince Mazeka answers his team’s call.
Photo Martin Ashworth
“That is a very tough one to answer. A number of rugby coaches have had a big influence on my rugby education. Since I first started, in mini-rugby at the age of 9 or so there were a number of coaches at that stage of my rugby development and I am grateful to all of them, as well as to all the coaches I have had at Saints.”
As to his thoughts on St Charles College, this time the Prince answer evidently doesn’t require the slightest hint of careful thought.
“I love Saints.”
“SCC has taught me how to treat all of our people with the same respect, irrespective of where society might try and categorise them. St Charles College has also taught me to always place others before my own interests while at the same time holding my ground and being my own person when the situation demands that response.
Every sports fan and every sportsman needs to recharge the batteries ahead of the next encounter.
“But most of all it is the sense of brotherhood you get here at Saints that is most precious to me. That sense of a shared bond, a common goal and an ideal that is worth preserving and enhancing is what makes my school so special.”
15 vs 8: Elusive Saints fullback Prince Mazeka and workrate personified Michaelhouse eighthman & captain Christian Opperman were in brilliant form on Meadows 28 April 2018 during a thrilling encounter that eventually went the way of House.
Photo Martin Ashworth
While the Prince of St Charles is a competent, hardworking scholar in the classroom and goes about his duties with a sense of responsibility, he is open-minded about possible career pursuits once his matric year is up in a few very short months’ time.
But, with the flash of a smile, he says, “I would love to go all-out in making a go at professional football.”
KZN10.com extends the best of best wishes to, Prince. May your dreams come true. Nice guys do finish first.
A tribute to those who made the Hockey Nationals happen
Keith Fairweather, the Australia Schools Hockey team chaperone on their recent SA tour and boys and girls three-match series against SA U18 boys and girls, says:
AN OPEN LETTER OF SINCERE THANKS AND CONGRATULATIONS
Hard work, commitment, dedication, self-sacrifice and passion etc. are attributes of many teachers, coaches, managers and school leaders… They all deserve a big pat on the back and recognition for their service and their servant-leadership, which often goes unnoticed and acclaimed.
I’d like to take this opportunity of commending and congratulating KZN Schools’ Hockey’s Wayne Marsden, Brandon Swart, Charmaine Koekemoer, Karen Sharratt, Sharmin Naidoo, Kurt Nero, Joy Pieterson, Paul Gonlag and Jason Lawrence for their leadership, management and big-picture vision in hosting the premier national schools’ hockey tournaments over the June/July holidays.
Their collective hard work, commitment, dedication, self-sacrifice and passion over the past months, and the past weeks has resulted in a real CELEBRATION AND FESTIVAL OF GIRLS’ AND BOYS’ HOCKEY in Pietermaritzburg.
The iWYZE National Schoolboys’ and Schoolgirls’ U18 A and U18 B Hockey Nationals; the iWYZE National Schoolboys’ and Schoolgirls’ U13 A and U13 B Hockey Nationals; the iWYZE National Schoolboys’ and Schoolgirls’ U16 A and U16 B Hockey Nationals, plus the fantastic SA U18 Schoolboys’ and Schoolgirls’ three-match international series against the Australian U17 Schoolboys’ and Schoolgirls’ hockey teams were all hosted in Pietermaritzburg, with the local organising committee (LOC) and the South African Schools’ Hockey administration (SASHOC) team based at Maritzburg College, AB Jackson hockey stadium, the University of KwaZulu-Natal hockey stadium, and Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High.
Wayne Marsden, Brandon Swart, and Charmaine Koekemoer, who each carried several portfolios, and their terrific TEAM of school teachers, coaches, managers, and school leaders deserve great applause, acclamation and appreciation. Well done. Thank you very much from all of us who love hockey and school sport. #proud #camaraderie #sportsmanship #teamwork #leadership #iwyze
Costi the keeper reserves a special place for his mom
I have learned something by chance about Hilton College’s 16-year-old first team soccer goalkeeper Constandino Christodoulou that has touched me deeply and says a lot about this young man in the making. At the age of 3 Costi lost his mom to cancer. Before each match, grade 10 schoolboy Costi says a prayer in honour of his mother. Her initials are on his goalkeeper gloves.
Clearly Costi lives by the Hilton College motto, Orando et Laborando (by Prayer and Work).
KZN10.com wishes Costi and the South African U17 football team all the best for the COSAFA U17 Cup from this Friday’s opening match to the Sunday 29 July final. Costi and Team SA flew to tournament host country Mauritius Sunday, arrived Monday and had MRI scans in order to ensure age eligibility.
Players born 1 January 2002 or later are eligible to participate in the competition.
Go to the COSAFA website www.cosafa.com for a lot of information on the Council of Southern African Football Associations’ take on the COSAFA U17 Cup – the AFCON 2019 Qualifier tournament, as well as on the SAFA website www.safa.net … there will be constant updates and article on the SAFA website.
LIVE COMMENTARY ON THE SA U17 GAMES on their twitter handle @SAFA_net
2018 COSAFA Under-17 Championship fixtures and SA TIME kick-off:
Friday 20/07: vs Lesotho – 13h30 – Auguste Vollaire Stadium
Sunday 22/07: vs Mozambique – 10h00 – Auguste Vollaire Stadium
Tuesday 24/07: vs Zambia – 13h00 – St Francois Xavier Stadium
Not just a shot-stopper: Modern-day goalkeepers play the role of sweeper and counter-attack launchpad. Non out-of-hand footballing skills – dribbling and passing – add an extra dimension. Constandino Christodoulou, the 16-year-old Hilton College firsts, KZN U19 and SA U17 keeper. Note the perfect balance and technique. The Hilton College firsts soccer keeper also benefits from developing his all-round sports skills by playing U16A rugby and cricket.
So it’s the 12 Southern African countries… 4 per group, so 3 groups… Costi and Team SA in Group B with Lesotho, Mozambique and defending champions Zambia… the winners of each group progress to the semi-finals along with the best-placed 2nd team from the 3 groups.
If SA win they qualify for the African Youth Cup Finals event in Tanzania next year and the champs in Tanzania plus the three other semi-finalists go to The 2019 Big Show – the 18th biennial Fifa U17 World Cup Finals competition in host country Peru from October 5 to 19.
England U17 are the defending world champions.
Last word from Costi: “Thank you so much, Sir, I really appreciate KZN10.com showing such interest in the SA U17 team… it’s all up to us now, we’ve prepared well and have it all going for us.”
SA U17 will be intent on emulating their Cosafa Cup U17 champions predecessors of 1992 and 2004.
You go Costi. KZN10.com says one more time: “Bring it home Team SA we want to see you in Tanzania next year – and in Peru for the Biggest of Big Shows when it comes to U17 world football.”
Notes of interest
* SA U17 won the Cosafa Cup in 1992 and 2004.
* Last time out the SA boys finished fourth.
* South Africa have been the most successful side in COSAFA Under-17 Championship history with two winners medals and runners-up in 2001 and 2016.
* Last year in Mauritius SA lost 2-0 to their hosts and had to settle for fourth place after losing to Malawi in the bronze-medal match.
Success is earned.
* They did make the final two years ago, when the championships were also staged in Mauritius, but were surprise losers to Namibia on penalties in the decider.
* South Africa are one of only two COSAFA nations, the other being Malawi, to reach the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, which they managed in 2015 when it was hosted in Chile.
If you can’t see it you can’t stop it.
* They managed just a single point in the pool stages though as they were edged 2-1 by Costa Rica, before drawing 1-1 with North Korea. They then lost 2-0 to Russia to exit at the first stage.
* South Africa’s previous successes in the COSAFA U17 Championship came when they beat Mozambique 2-1 some 24 years ago, before they edged Swaziland into first place in 2001 when the competition was decided on points.
Costi can’t do it on his own. The SA U17 shot-stopper needs to be secure in the support of his team’s defensive system.
* They also have three visits to the African U17 Championship, finished fourth in 2005 and second in 2015.
* The SA side will be coached again by long-time mentor Molefi Ntseki, who also took the side to Chile three years ago.
Michaelhouse’s Ben10 makes the play and wins the day
TO score in the decades-old Michaelhouse/Hilton derby is an achievement many would treasure. Yet on a beautiful KZN midlands May Day in 2018 a feat was achieved that has probably never been achieved before – and possibly never will be again. I toyed with headline possibilities that are heaven-sent chances for headline writers, which they seldom get. “Ben 10 blasts 4”; “4-goal Ben bashes opposition out the Ball Park”. In a dream match, grade 11 Michaelhouse boy Ben Rebeck, playing as an attacking midfielder rather than his preferred striker position, scored all four goals in front of his schoolmates in a dream home match on Aitkens Astro that saw the red-and-white checked underdogs surprise the fancied Hilton College 4-2. The return match at Hilton College did not for Michaelhouse’s way as captain Duncan Fyvie and his Hilton team-mates dominated proceedings. But no one can take that dream May Day on Aitkens away.
Goalbound! Another penalty corner drag-flick scorcher from Ben Rebeck set to balloon the back of the Hilton College net on Michaelhouse’s 5th of May Day.
Ben Rebeck thrives on pressure, never more evident than in a fighting half-century on Goldstones first term 2018 in a lost cause against the rampant Maritzburg College first XI bowling quartet spearheaded by 16-year-old SA Schools and SA U19 fast bowler Mondli Khumalo and fellow quicks Cameron Hollaway, Jayden Gengan and Shaun-Lee Elliott.
Fighting spirit: Ben Rebeck made a courageous half-century in a losing cause against a rampant Maritzburg College pace bowling quartet on Goldstones in the first term this 2018 year that said much about his calm and composed demeanour in a sporting crisis. At one stage House were 1 run for 5 wickets and then 9 for 6 in a 2,5 day match lost by an innings.
Photo Jono Cook
As the Michaelhouse first hockey team penalty corner drag-flick and penalty flick go-to man, key playmaker and field goal marksman a lot rests on the Rebeck shoulder blades.
“I love the pressure – and accepting responsibility for doing my job for the team,” says Ben. “I know that if I don’t score then the key is to force a save out of the keeper so I find it definitely focuses my mind. The pressures vary depending on the match situation, but I always know that I’ve put in the work and that I’m ready to score.
The five-star Fordoun Hotel Spa and Restaurant is but a Ben Rebeck drag-flick rocket away from Aitkens Astro at Michaelhouse. A great place for recharging the batteries during a hectic sporting weekend.
“My preferred position is striker as it gives me a lot of freedom to express myself and I enjoy the pressure of taking opportunities to score goals for my team. This year I’ve also been playing as a high central midfielder as we felt I could offer the team a dual role, through always looking to go forward and setting up scoring opportunities for others.”
“Ben 10” is the chant and the song that echoes across Aitkens Astro in the park-life surrounds of beautiful Michaelhouse when the loyal, hugely supportive Boys of House who pack the terraces on the School side of the turf give praise to their super-hero.
Ben Rebeck raises his arms after nailing his fourth goal in the 5 May 2018 defeat of Hilton College on Aitkens Astro.
They did just that and more, much more, on the 4-2 Dream May 5 Day.
Ben’s prowess has earned recognition.
“When I was at Clifton Prep, Durban, I was selected for the KZN Coastal teams up to U13 and since I’ve been at Michaelhouse I’ve played in three Hockey Nationals for the KZN Inland U14 and U16 teams. It was really great to be selected for the SA U16 squad in 2016 and 2017, both of which were fantastic experiences. This year I played in the KZN Inland U18A in the Old Mutual iWYZE Hockey Nationals at Maritzburg College where our aim was to win the tournament – we had a brilliant squad and coaches. Unfortunately we lost to KZN Coastal in the final.”
Ben’s excellent week in the striker role was rewarded with his selection for the SA U17 High Performance squad. Indeed, Ben 10 would not have looked out of place in the SA U18B or SA U18A sides, the latter team edged by Australia U17 Schoolboys in a thrilling series subsequent to Hockey Nationals.
Benj has also enjoyed memorable moments in club hockey.
“Playing for Kearsney Hockey Club firsts under Sihle Sigz Ntuli in last year’s Belgotex Greenfields Elite Club Challenge at Riverside was a big highlight for me. It was exciting playing at such a high level and I enjoyed the regular league games. That will hopefully continue this season, as the Michaelhouse school season has ended.”
Ben 10 has just enjoyed his second year in the Michaelhouse first hockey team and has notched up around 40 first team appearances. “Michaelhouse doesn’t seem to play quite as many matches as other schools but I hope to make it past 50 caps next year as I’m in grade 11.
“I’m grateful to the coaches at Michaelhouse who last year convinced the management of the school to relax the policy that grade 10s aren’t allowed to play in the first team. I have become calmer and more comfortable in my role in the team since my debut. I’m also grateful to players like Mike Menear and Nick Forster who helped me to settle in very easily last year… that helped me to focus on scoring goals. I feel greater freedom on the ball this year as the pressure of being the youngster in the team and trying to avoid errors has diminished.
Ben 10’s most memorable game in the Red and White colours of Michaelhouse?
“Apart from my debut in 2017 against Westville, which we lost, my most memorable game for Michaelhouse was this year’s first match versus Hilton College. We won 4-2, a game which many thought we would lose. Things went my way on the day and I was able to score all four goals for the team. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the camaraderie of my team-mates and the school on that day. It feels so great to contribute.”
Faultless communication is key to the success of a penalty corner combination.
As Ben illustrated with some electrifying goals this year, having the ability to project penalty corner drag-flick missiles into the back of the net is a big weapon in his make-up. So what key ingredients lead into the probability of successfully engineering one of those trademark Ben 10 lightning strikes?
The penalty corner injector’s speed and accuracy, followed by the skills of the PC trapper: Their efforts enable Ben to have more placement options.
“A good push and a good stop are critical for the flicker to be able to put the ball where he wants to. If either is slightly off, the flicker must either quickly adjust his timing and target, or pull out of the flick altogether. Michaelhouse captain Mubeezi Lubinga has a quick, accurate injection and Tom Gibson is an excellent trapper so, if the surface of the Astro is reliable, they give me the best chance of getting off a good flick on target. It’s the flicker who gets the credit for the goal but it’s really very much a team effort.”
The Michaelhouse first team have blown hot, very hot, and cold, very cold, this season.
While human error led the Michaelhouse firsts hockey team from a red-hot performance one weekend to an error-ridden damp squib the next, your security demands 100% consistency 24/7/365. Titan Technologies products gives you the ultimate in weekend away security.
“We had a shaky start, although we did beat the strong Westville side in our second match, but we quickly improved and were on a 7-match winning streak until a disastrous loss to St John’s College brought us down to earth again. Nothing went right that day. The match against Maritzburg College on our Aitkens Astro was one of the most exciting I’ve played in.”
Indeed, it will go down as one of the KZN10.com Super Saturday matches of the season. The Rebeck Factor was shown to great effect but Michaelhouse came out on the wrong side of a 12-goal (7-5) blockbuster. There was a quiet satisfaction in edging the previously unbeaten Clifton College side in the season’s penultimate match before being thoroughly undone by Hilton on Beckingham’s in the season finale.
Ben’s hockey career began in grade 4 or thereabouts: “As far back as I can remember I played hockey, but I think it was in grade 4 at Clifton Durban that I started to love it. A defining year for me was grade 6 when coach Mr Glenn Jones included me in the Clifton Prep First XI. His love for the game and passion for coaching us really sparked something in me. I enjoyed his intensity and feel like I still feed off that today.
Comfortable, clear vision is a non-negotiable in sport. If your game form is on the blink it’s time to look no further than Hilliar & Gray.
“I’ve had so many brilliant coaches at school, at the various age-group Hockey Nationals and in the SA squads. but Mr Glenn Jones is the one who really moved the needle early on for me.”
Family and friends have, and still are, playing a pivotal role in the Ben Rebeck Hockey Success Story:
“My mom and dad have been incredibly supportive so far. They’ve hardly missed a game. My dad finds it hard to sit still during a match so they usually find standing room somewhere. They keep telling me they love watching me play, whatever the result. That means a lot. They feel the same about my sister, Sophie – she’s in this year’s KZN Inland U16B team.
Ben Rebeck’s selection for the SA U17 High Performance squad at the culmination of the Old Mutual iWYZE U18 Hockey Nationals was just reward for an outstanding season in Michaelhouse and KZN Inland colours.
“My parents’ approach has helped Sophie and I to keep a healthy perspective on things and grow our love for sport. Also, the matrics in last year’s Michaelhouse first XI were brilliant in making me feel an important part of the team. Knowing they backed me was a big plus. Fortunately I haven’t had a major injury and I know that if I keep working on my game and fitness, my chances of getting injured are minimised.
Ben’s final thoughts on one of his standout skills: “I aim for 100% of penalty corner drag-flicks to be on target – and then to convert the majority into goals. My success rate percentage is on the up, which is good, but I’m not satisfied. There’s no question that the more balls I flick in training during the week the more speed and accuracy I get in the next match.
“I find it’s a bit like a golf swing – you have to go to the range.”
Well said, Ben. Your combination of humbleness, modesty and respect, self-confidence and ambition will stand you in good stead.
KZN10.com wishes you all the best.
BEN REBECK SELECTIONS
At Clifton Prep in Durban
KZN Coastal teams through to U13
At Michaelhouse
KZN Inland U14
KZN Inland U16A (2 consecutive years)
SA U16 selection 2016 & 2017
KZN Inland U18A
2018 SA U17 High Performance squad
2019: Watch this space…
* Kearsney Hockey Club (2017 Belgotex Greenfields Elite Club Challenge)
Ben 10 in 20 Seconds
The vociferous Michaelhouse band of supporters Aitkens Astro side have a song/chant about schoolmate “Ben 10”. The grade 11 Michaelhouse hockey player Ben Rebeck wears the number 10 on his shirt and can play just about any role. Schoolboys are good with nickames. The animated TV hero Ben 10 is Ben Tennyson, a 10-year-old boy whose magical device can turn him into 10 different heroes. The KZN10.com Ben 10, playing striker for silver medalists KZN Inland 18A during the recent iWYZE Hockey Nationals, was in fine fettle both in field play and and with his deadly penalty corner drag-flicks/penalty strokes. His prowess was rewarded with selection for the SA U17 High Performance squad. So who is “our” Ben 10 when he’s off the hockey pitch.
BEN REBECK IN 20 SECONDS
Favourite food: Sushi
Actor: Ryan Reynolds
Actress: Camila Mendes
TV show: Riverdale
Holiday: Anywhere near the sea
Board game: 30 seconds
Car: Jeep
Nickname: Benj
Benj in one word: Calm
Fave breakfast: Avo on toast
Three desert island must-haves: Suncream because I’m ginger, a bed and sushi
Four things I can’t live without: Friends and Family, the beach, hockey, sushi
Favourite quote: “You miss 100% of the shots you never take”
If I could attend any sports event: Olympic Games
Down time: Movies and playing with my dogs
On your screensaver: My girlfriend and I
Sharp 20/20 vision is a key factor in the making of a quality hockey player.
SA and Australia Schoolboys it’s up for the taking
Feature image by Terry Lewis: SA keeper Taine Bird of Northwood and Aussie Josh Brooks pure focus during the second international.
SA’s Peter Jarvis and Craig Marais of Australia compete for the ball.
Photo Terry Lewis
SA first wave Cody Posthumus gets out the starting blocks at pace.
Hilton College keeper Costi kicks like a Colt 45
THE 16-year-old Hilton College boy Costi Christodoulou further underscored a blossoming reputation in the World of Soccer with his selection less than 24 hours ago for the SA U17 team of 20 to do battle in the COSAFA U17 Cup that takes place in Mauritius from 19 to 29 July, having just completed attending the national camp of 32 players.
Contacted by KZN10.com Thursday, Costi underlined the significance of this event: “The COSAFA U17 Cup tournament is of immense importance as it doubles up as a qualifier for the Continental Cup, with the winners of COSAFA progressing to the Tanzania 2019 African Youth Games.”
Constandino “Costi” Christodoulou was one of the first KZN10.com player features (see Hilton College Page or Soccer Page). My first reaction was, what a modest yet confident and intelligent young man. Constandino understands the difference between the assertive and aggressive personality. Costi is definitely not the latter. He is most definitively the former.
And my initial instinct then – that the sky is too restrictive a limit for this Hilton College Soccer diamond in the making – was reinforced in a number of later (unscheduled) meetings – on a cricket Saturday at Hilton College and a rugby Saturday at Maritzburg College.
Training is something Costi has never been shy of. I watched him in a gruelling workout with outstanding Maritzburg United goalkeeper coach Arthur Bartman a few months ago and he matched – and outperformed – the four considerably older shot-stoppers alongside him.
That memory is still vivid. Just to be in that set-up (beginning last year at the age of 15 for goodness’ sake – a standard 7 boy in us “oldie’s” parlance) as a grade 9 boy in 2017 clearly indicated this was a special talent, but it was the confidence, the “ownership” of the goalmouth that particularly struck me.
I watched Costi for the better part of an hour – having initially intended to pop in to the Maritzburg United training ground adjoining the Harry Gwala Stadium for 5 minutes in order to give Costi a copy of a national magazine, in which lay a feature article I had written on him.
Well, as mentioned above, those 5 minutes extended to the point where, when I next checked the time, I was already late for another appointment. That’s what exceptional talent does to a sports fan – it locks you in.
Over to Costi:
“Thank you Sir, I am once again honoured to be on KZN10.com. My football career continued early this year when I was selected for the SA U17 national team to play against Botswana in 2 international friendly matches. However, this did not happen and we proceeded to play matches locally in South Africa with the camp still being very important and useful in our preparations for the upcoming COSAFA Cup.
Grade 10 Hilton College first team goalkeeper Costi Christodoulou is no stranger to international competition.
“In March, I was granted the opportunity to travel with a KZN Select team to Barcelona and Madrid in Spain. This would prove to be an experience that I will never forget. We played 3 matches, winning 2 and losing one, whilst also having 2 training sessions with local academy coaches. We would visit the Santiago Bernabau as well as the Camp Nou.
(Costi, I said to self: ‘Self, I would give anything to be at those cathedrals of soccer one day – so keep Reaching for the Dream, Self’).
Every goalkeeper will confirm that the aches and pains after a tough match are real. A relaxing massage followed by a great meal and blissful night’s sleep is the answer.
Back to Costi: “Arguably my highlight of the trip was being able to watch Lionel Messi score a hat -trick against Leganes. This was certainly a tour that not only benefited me from a football perspective, but also allowed me to broaden my outlook on the world and explore new cities.”
Costi is also a strong Hilton College U16A centre and opens the U16A bowling too
“I would proceed to jet back to South Africa in order to participate in the annual Independent Schools U16 Rugby Festival hosted by Hilton College. I missed our first game against St John’s which we won comfortably won and proceeded to play the following two matches against St Benedict’s and St Alban’s – scoring over 10 points in each game – to help my team to an unbeaten festival. The domestic season proved to be full of ups, downs and memorable moments. My U16A team managed to do the double over Kearsney, get a huge win on the road against Pretoria Boys’ High and a victory against DHS.
Opponents give away kickable penalties at their peril when Hilton College points machine Costi Christodoulou is on the field.
“My season, however, was cut short with two weeks to go as I received a concussion in the second leg of the Kearsney fixture with 5 minutes to play, bringing an end to what was an enjoyable and memorable 12 weeks of rugby.
“Hilton College have continued to support, help and guide me in my pursuit of becoming a world-renowned goalkeeper. They have continued to give me time off school in the mornings in order to attend all Maritzburg United first team sessions, which has ultimately allowed me to grow in leaps and bounds under the careful guidance of Fadlu and Maahier Davids and goalkeeper coach Arthur Bartman.
Outside the popular Fleur de Lys Club, adjoining Hilton College’s pristine Jack Hart-Davis Cricket Oval: Costi Christodoulou as a grade 9 in November last year about to board the U15A cricket bus to Michaelhouse. Photo Jono Cook
“Mr Tony Shuttleworth the Hilton director of sports, has been 100% behind me in my training and work programmes, ensuring that I don’t fall behind, and ultimately allowing me time off from school sport in order to compete at the highest possible level. This, however, has all been possible due to Mr Paul de Wet, the director of academics at Hilton College, as he has helped ensure that my academics stay at a high standard and my average stays in the 86% to 90% range. He has been instrumental in allowing my growth in football to transpire.
Costi might be a shot-stopper but he’s always on the lookout for turning defence into attack through an accurate throw.
“Then, as already mentioned, I was called up to the national U17 training camp in preparation for the COSAFA U17 Cup in Mauritius from 19-29 July. As I said earlier, this tournament is of immense importance as it doubles up as a qualifier for the Continental Cup, with the winners of COSAFA progressing to the African Youth Games, which take place in Tanzania next year.
“These are steps and goals that must be achieved if we are to qualify for the World Cup, to be held in Peru in December 2019. The squad of 32 is now a team of 20 and we depart for Mauritius on July 15, South Africa being drawn in Group B alongside Zambia, Mozambique and Lesotho.”
Costi, KZN10.com wishes you nothing but the best in this next chapter of your soccer journey.
13 Questions and 20 Seconds with Jared ‘Jazza’ Campbell
SA Schools hockey midfield dynamo and KZN U19 cricketer Jared Campbell has a hectic couple of international sporting weeks ahead. The SA vs Australia U17 Schoolboys hockey series July 9-11 and then the Africa Youth Games. Jared, the electric-heeled cover fielder and 10-metre burst Astro champion, prolific opening bat, useful off-spinner and dedicated Maritzburg College deputy head prefect, prefers to do his talking by deed rather than word but, as always, he met the challenge and then some.
HUNTER GATHERER: Jared Jazza Campbell on the Red Army’s Fortress Pape’s Astro at Maritzburg College.
(Matt Marshall Photography Feature Foto)
So here’s Jared’s response to the interview challenge:
1) I feel that I perform best under pressure. Yes this year has been a very demanding year in terms of responsibilities, but instead I see it as an opportunity to thrive. On a cricketing front, the responsibility has accounted for the successful patch I had opening the batting for the 1st XI. As a senior player, the onus is on me to produce the goods.
2) I found it hard to balance my time in the first few weeks of the school year, but I’ve developed a routine which is working for me. I do work late on some nights and I do return home exhausted but that’s what it’s all about. You reap what you sow. I find myself prioritising and organising my calendar months before an event to ensure I’m always on the ball. Leisure time I make time for because you always need an outlet from a hard day’s training.
3) I play mainly as a link, preferably on the right. I also play striker occasionally. I enjoy playing link because you get to control the game; you determine the pace of the game. I enjoy creating opportunities for my team-mates and if I find myself in the D [strike zone], I can get the odd goal or two. I believe my hockey game is all about speed, and with me operating on the flanks of the field, it allows the team to counter with pace and flair.
4) I’ve been fortunate to represent my province from U12 all the way to U18 in both Hockey and Cricket. The two teams I am the most grateful for making is the SA U18 hockey team [2017 & 2018 says Jono] and the KZN U19 cricket side.
5) My journey in the Red Army [Maritzburg College first hockey team] began in 2016, so I’ve been playing for 3 years. I’m currently on 60 caps and I still remember my debut vividly. In my first year, I had the ability to play 1st XI but not the belief. I found myself playing off the bench, but in hindsight I learnt a lot about myself and the game in that year. Now I feel more assured on the ball, and most importantly I play with more belief.
6) My first XI cricket career also began in 2016, but my journey was a lot more like a rollercoaster. I was dropped many times from the 1st XI… I still enjoyed my cricket but essentially lost my passion for it. I began not worrying about results and selections, and the reward was a better performance. I’m on 49 caps and I feel that I’m enjoying my cricket a lot more because I don’t put as much pressure on myself.
Jared Campbell and friends on one of the most famous days in Maritzburg College first XI history. A Goldstones innings defeat (in the first term 2018) of the quality Michaelhouse side.
Photo Jono Cook
7) My most memorable Red Army hockey game would be our 3rd match at Nomads 2016, against Rondebosch in Cape Town. The setting was iconic, a hockey match under lights with Table Mountain in the background and a setting sun. We were being dominated and our backs were against the wall. Coach [Devon] van der Merwe threw me on as a striker and in the last 5 minutes I scored the winning goal. It was a big moment for the team and I as Rondebosch were considered the top team at the time.
The 2017 men of the Maritzburg College Red Army captained by U18 Hockey Nationals 2017 edition Player of the Tournament Brad Sherwood (with mascot).
8) For cricket, it would have to be beating St Stithians on Goldstones last year at the 2017 Oppenheimer Michaelmas Week. Saints were regarded as the best side in the country and our performance on Goldstones was on par with some of the best cricket Goldstones has ever seen. It was a great game to be a part of. We bowled Saints out for 149 on an overcast morning and in reply we won by 6 wickets. The convincing manner in which we won highlights the brand of cricket we were playing last year.
9) At last week’s Iwyze [Old Mutual] U18 Hockey Nationals (June 24-29 on Pape’s Astro, Maritzburg College and AB Jackson Greenfields Astro], my most memorable game was without a doubt our [June 28] semi-final victory over rivals Western Province [the defending champions, who beat KZN Inland in the 2017 final at Kearsney College, KZN Inland winning the 2016 title]. We dominated proceedings from beginning to end, and I feel we put on an entertaining show for the supporters. We executed the game plan perfectly. It was our day and everything worked out as planned. We ran out eventual winners 3-1.
AND THEN THERE WERE FIVE: Maritzburg College’s Famous Five (from left) centre back Andre Bradford; left-side midfielder Mphumulelo Maphumulo; right-side (here, there and just about everywhere) attacking midfielder and striker Jared Campbell (2nd successive year), striker Angelo ‘Mitie Dynamitie’ [my nickname] Walstroom and ‘The Rock’ (my nickname) in goalkeeper Sihle Ngcongo are in the 2018 SA Schools Hockey team to face Australia U17 Schoolboys on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday July 9, 10 and 11 under lights on the UKZN Pietermaritzburg campus Greenfields Astro.
10) I hope to add my strengths to the SA U18 team because the series against Australia U17 Schoolboys is a showcase event for hockey in our schools. [June 9, 10 and 11 at UKZN Pietermaritzburg campus Greenfields Astro – see poster for details].
Plenty thrills, skills and spills in store.
I hope to create as many chances as I can for the talented strikers we have at our disposal and be influential at PC [penalty corner] time. For the SA U18 Hockey Fives team [Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games Africa Qualifier in Algiers, Algeria this month] I hope to contribute to the team with my physicality and pace.
11) I started playing hockey when I was 5 years old. I’ve been fortunate to have been coached by really good coaches. Mr [Brandon] Swart was my U14A coach and many a Maritzburg College hockey player will tell you a similar story of how he develops your basics. I learnt the most in U14 and Mr Swart had a lot to do with it. Mr [Devon] van der Merwe taught me how to play hockey at a higher level, he essentially taught me how to play with a hockey brain. He also taught me life skills, some of which I use today.
Jared Campbell in grade 6 and the 2012 Cordwalles first hockey team that included his then fellow grade 6 Cordie and now 2018 KZN Inland team-mate Duncan Fyvie of Hilton College.
12) I started playing cricket also in 2005. The two coaches that have stood out for me would be Mr Mbasa Gqadushe and Mr [Doug] Watson. Mbasa really pushed me and made me believe in myself. We used to train almost every single day in the December holidays. Mr Watson, albeit for a short time, had the biggest impact on my cricket. He is a straightforward man with strong values and these values were instilled into my game. I enjoyed his coaching methods and generally his personality on and off the field.
13) Yes, I believe the success of any sportsman is not an individual effort but rather a team effort. I’ve been blessed to have people around me who are interested in my life and also care a lot about me. My Mom and Dad give a lot of their time and effort towards me and they sacrifice so I can do well. My brother Landon trained me to become a better hockey player and we still train to this day.
FATHER AND SONS: Michael, Jared and Landon Campbell.
I would like to thank them for their continued support. Mr Garth Oliver from EAP is an unsung hero, he tends to all my aches and pains from hockey. Mr Nic Gonsalves from Dita hockey, I thank all you guys for your support. Lastly, the friends that help through the high and lows, I would like to mention [Maritzburg College Red Army and KZN Inland team-mate] Adrian Greaves, who has been a good friend of mine on and off the field. Thanks for your support, Adrian.
“And thank you for this opportunity Mr Cook!
“KZN10.com is great and wish you everything of the best with it.”
KZN10.com says: Jazza, I have watched you play since primary school days and it has always been a pleasure to see a young sportsman who respects and values the correct manner in which these two great sports must be played. Go well, Jarry, you are a credit to Maritzburg College and it’s wonderful to watch your growing self-belief being added to your modest nature. Coupled together, they form a winning Jared Campbell combination.
And now for the fun part!
A 20-second Jazza Campbell sprint (he finished this part with customary Astro speed)
20 SECONDS WITH JARED CAMPBELL
Favourite food: Sushi
Actor: Miles Teller
Actress: Mila Kunis
TV Show: Chicago Med
Holiday Destination: Amsterdam
Board Game: 30 seconds
Car: Audi R8
Nickname: Jarry or Jazza
Jazza in One: Motivated
Breakfast: scrambled eggs with cheese
3 Desert Island Must-Haves: JBL speaker, my phone, a couple of mates
4 Things Jarry can’t live without: WiFi, hockey, family and God
Favourite Jazza quote: “The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do” (Anonymous)
Sports event: The Olympic Games
Down time – watching TV and chilling with friends and family
Screensaver – Gigi Hadid
Jared Campbell for KZN Inland vs WP U16 Hockey Nationals 2016 Final at St John’s College in Johannesburg. WP won that one, as well as U18 Nationals at Kearsney College last year before the Lads of Inland disturbed the trend in magnificent fashion on Pape’s Astro, Maritzburg College last Thursday.