HOCKEY
Maritzburg College hockey overcome Northwood challenge in emphatic fashion
Maritzburg College dominated in their hockey matches against visiting side Northwood, and of the 18 matches played, College won 13, drawing 4 and losing just one in scoring 51 goals with 14 against.
Here’s the 1st XI match report v Northwood from Dylan Coombes, Maritzburg College 1st team coach and director of hockey:
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“Maritzburg College welcomed KZN rivals Northwood to a newly surfaced Pape’s Astro in the opening fixture of the 2019 winter sports season.
“Exceptionally hot conditions would challenge the intensity with which the College 1st XI normally go about their business.
“The 2019 season has also welcomed the introduction of a change in format where four 15-minute quarters [the international norm] have been introduced at 1st team level.
Check out the Maritzburg College first team squad 2019 here on the Maritzburg College Facebook page
https://web.facebook.com/Maritzcollege/videos/1053482648177380/
“The match started with both College and Northwood testing the waters with caution.
“College enjoyed most of the possession; however the first quarter came to a close at 0-0.
“It took until 5 minutes before halftime before it was College who would break the deadlock through debutant D. Bruyns.
“Bruyns showed great instinct in sneaking ahead of his defender in what was very limited space to expertly get off a forehand shot – opening his and College’s account for the 2019 season.
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Halftime saw the match evenly poised with only the single goal separating the two teams.
College came out with good intentions in the 2nd half, the frontmen appearing to be revved up by the halftime chat, and showed some exciting interplay and dynamic skills.
“This pressure resulted in College’s 2nd goal, where a baseline circle entry, some good stickwork-and-a-shot from Bruyns saw the ball deflect up with no danger, falling at the far post, where S. Ngcobo was perfectly placed to make a simple finish, putting College 2-0 up.
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“Seven minutes later College would win their 5th penalty corner, which saw captain G. Pio step up and slot the ball into the bottom-left corner to see the scoreboard read 3-0 in favour of College.
“Just 4 minutes after College extending their lead, a scrappy patch of play saw Northwood capitalise on poor defending and open their account, a simple finish stemming from fine skill on the baseline (3-1).
“This saw the 3rd quarter out and with the fourth and final quarter left College found another gear and showed some good control.
“College would be rewarded for good pressure and G. Ngcobo found himself perfectly positioned in the back of the circle, where he finished superbly with a forehand strike into the bottom corner.”
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The match ended 4-1 – now there is an exciting Nomads Festival at PBHS to look forward to for the College outfit.
Summary of results
Maritzburg College P 18 vs Northwood, W 13, D 4 L 1
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Nomads Hockey Festivals 2019 promise top-tier schoolboy hockey
It’s not that far away. In fact, before we know it, it’ll be upon us.
You’re no doubt reflecting like I am, how unbelievably fast this year’s KZN10 schoolboy sports year went, leaving us clinging to amazing memories and new friends made.
But so be it. The magic of KZN10 schoolboy sport is that before we know it, it’s the new year, the new season, the fresh first team faces – and some of those who cut their teeth on first team sport the year before and are now the first team seniors.
Antony Cohen feature image caption: The-then grade 10 Suubi Mugerwa-Sekawabe of Hilton firsts sets up goal-time against the Selborne College lads of his hometown East London during the epic 2017 Nomads first team Hockey Festival hosted by Hilton College.
Suubi put that experience to good use and this year the multi-talented Hiltonian played for SA U18 against Australia U17 Schoolboys in the KZN capital.
The umpire is internationally experienced Ayden Shrives of the Belgotex Greenfields Hockey Astro connection.
Ayden played in numerous Nomads during his time at Maritzburg College, including his grade 12 year as captain of the Red Army.
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And here are the first dates to diarise for the many fans of KZN10 schoolboy hockey – the first term holidays, the loosely termed “Easter” and surrounding dates.
The dates and period of the year when the elite hockey festivals in which our favourite KZN10 hockey schools will have teams in action.
These top-tier schoolboy hockey events feature the likes of Pretoria Boys’ High School (2019 Nomads First Team Festival hosts), KES, Maritzburg College, Michaelhouse, Hilton College, Wynberg, Grey PE/Grey Bloem, Jeppe, St John’s and and I could go on.
Pretoria Boys’ High School hockey director Ryan Anderson will be the go-to man in PBHS’s hosting of Nomads First Team Hockey Fest 2019. The PBHS penalty corner weapon was formidable during Nomads 2017 at Hilton College (here vs Jeppe). Image by Antony Cohen.
These are Festivals where there are no “gimme” games – each one is a strength vs strength clash against the replica quality hockey schools from across the land.
For proof go here – my 2017 live FB commentary on Nomads Hilton College: https://web.facebook.com/NomadsHockeyFest2017/?ref=your_pages
So book your accommodation, set yourself free of work obligations and get to your chosen festival of exciting, action-packed schoolboy hockey at its best.
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NOMADS ‘n MORE FESTIVAL DATES
U14 Nomads Hockey Festival = Wynberg Boys’ High School (Friday 15 March – 18 March 2019);
U16 Nomads Hockey Festival = KES (Friday 15 March – 18 March 2019);
1st team Nomads Hockey Festival = Pretoria Boys’ High School (Friday 15 March – 18 March 2019).
Hilton College’s Nicolaj Boorman (here vs KES) scored some spectacular PC drag-flick goals at Nomads 2017 on his home turf.
* The 1st team Saints Hockey Festival at St Stithians College from the 16 April – 20 April 2019 (Easter Long Weekend).
The Keith Fairweather Hockey Festival from Friday 29 March – Monday 1 April 2019.
* One Jono Cook will be the host and event manager for the Michaelhouse venue of the KFHF.
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Westville hockey star Caleb Carney in 20 seconds
There is much more to Westville, KZN Coastal and SA U18B’s Caleb Carney than just hockey skills. Music is something very close to the King’s heart. Let’s find out more about Caleb “King” Carney the person outside the white lines of the Astro turf.
CALEB CARNEY IN 20 SECONDS
Favourite food: Pizza
Fave breakfast: Bacon & eggs
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Actor: Russell Crowe
Actress: Emma Stone
TV show: Suits
Holiday destination: Greece
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Board game: 30 Seconds
Car: Aston Martin DB9
Your nickname: King Carney
King Carney 1 word: Wholehearted
3 People the King’d like to invite to dinner: singer/songwriter Ed Sheeran, footballer Wayne Rooney & singer/songwriter Taylor Swift
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Three desert island must-haves: Family, friends and my dog
Four things King Carney can’t live without: Family, music, friends & sport
Favourite quote: Music is all around us; all you have to do is listen
August Rush
If King Carney could attend any sports match: FIFA World Cup final
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Down time: Time with family and singing
On King Carney’s screensaver: My girlfriend and me
* Thanks Caleb, it’s been a pleasure
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Westville’s King Carney: Crushing the Hockey Astro
WESTVILLE first team hockey match-winner Caleb Carney has a ravenous hunger in the strike zone that is the hallmark of all sharpshooters.
Westville Boys’ High School first team head coach and hockey director Cameron Mackay: “Caleb is a striker. He has a fantastic hunger for the ball and is great in the press; he constantly works hard to fight for ball in the press.”
Renate Montgomery feature image: King Carney’s rocket-propelled grenade is split-secs away from ballooning the net.
Caleb is now in grade 12; does coach Cam see future potential?
“He’s definitely got a massive future ahead of him. Caleb works really hard and has a great temperament.”
Cam said it; and KZN10.com thinks King Carney’s got the goods to do it.
Caleb Carney… if you watch a hockey match in which the Westville Boys’ High and national title-winning KZN Coastal striker is involved, you quickly will take notice – he’s fast, strong on the ball, got quicksilver hands and a great goalshot.
So I wanted to know more about the Westville talisman.
Hi Caleb, it’s great to have you on KZN10.com.
“Thanks sir, I appreciate your interest.”
Durban boy through and through?
“I was born in Durban; hometown is Hillcrest, in grade 12 and 18 years old.”
Caleb Carney’s drag-flick rocket beats the first-wave block and it’s another penalty corner goal for national champions KZN Coastal. Photo Renate Montgomery
Your work rate, love of the game, dedication, all the training, all the match play, does it get a bit much at times?
“At times it can be sapping but for the most part it amps me to be with the team and to be on the Astro as often as possible.”
Caleb, I watched just about every KZN Coastal A game at the iWYZE U18 Hockey Nationals; I got the impression that you are a hockey forward with abundant talent and then some. What is it about playing striker that you enjoy and adds value to the team?
“Yes I am a striker/forward, my natural instinct is to attack and score goals – I am most recognised for my ability to score, as well as to create goals for my team, hence striker is the position at which I can lead from the front and add value most effectively.”
Compact and definitely not goal-shy. Little wonder that his favourite soccer player is one Wayne Rooney.
Caleb you have no doubt played other sports, so what is it about hockey?
“I play football and cricket but hockey is my favourite because not only have I achieved the most in it but I have also made the most connections and built valuable friendships through it.”
You have probably got a pretty good hockey CV. Please tell us about it.
“It’s been quite a journey so far, for sure.
“It all started with U13B KZN (won Gold at Maritzburg College) where I also received top goal scorer. U14A KZN (won gold at Jeppe), U16B KZN (won Gold at Kearsney), U16A KZN (won Bronze at St John’s), U18A KZN (Kearsney) and U18A KZN (won Gold at Maritzburg College this year – Selected for U18B SA Schools).”
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It’s certainly been a path of recognition – I felt you were most unfortunate not to get the nod for the SA Schools A side that played against Australia Schoolboys U17 but so be it.
No, let’s explore this further: I am not alone in saying you had an excellent iWYZE U18 Boys Hockey Nationals in July at Maritzburg College’s Papes (where KZN Coastal did so well in winning the SA title) and on the AB Jackson Astro, so not being selected for the SA U18A hockey team must have come as a blow.
Obviously you must have been hugely disappointed.
How do you hope to put that disappointment behind you and perhaps even use it as a motivating force in taking your hockey to the next level? Do you think that in 2019 you will be an even better hockey player?
“Yes, making the SA U18B team and not the national A side was a disappointment but it was still an honour to be recognised. I do think that I will be a better player in 2019 as I always give 100%.”
What are your plans for next year?
“My plans for hockey in 2019 are not 100% mapped out as yet but I intend to play club hockey and work very hard in search of further recognition, be it provincial or national selection.”
How many years have you played first XI hockey at Westville and how do you feel your game has developed since your debut?
“I played 3 years first team under our coach Mr Cameron Mackay, who is also Westville director of hockey, achieving 50 caps.
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“My game has come a long way and I have matured as a hockey player in general as a result of the excellent coaching and High Performance Programme at Westville.”
What has been your most memorable Westville hockey game and why?
“It was in 2016 against Kearsney at Kearsney in the KZN Top 8 Tournament where we won 3-2. It was one of my first games as a junior for Westville first side and I played alongside my brother Chad Carney.
“I scored an upright back-stick goal to get us to 2-1 right after Kearsney had equalised. I will never forget the way we celebrated that goal, as I found myself under a pile of senior team-mates all cheering.”
As far as 2018 Westville firsts hockey is concerned, who were the players in your team that you feel had a particularly good year?
“Well, if I may say so, I feel that Keegan Gibbon and I played really well as a combination, collectively racking up the goals together. The team as a group really pulled together and worked hard towards the common goal.
“The Westville first team hockey season would never have turned out so well without the complete buy-in from the team.”
As said, I have seen you play a number of hockey matches this year.
What struck me is your energy upfront and mobility both in terms of pace and lateral and vertical movement on and off the ball.
Caleb Carney (middle, front) on the day of his 50th appearance for Westville firsts – and what a memory it was: success over the strong Maritzburg College line-up on his home turf.
Do you put in a lot of conditioning and fitness work or does it come from being on the turf a lot?
You also have very quick hands and are able to use your stickwork to win penalty corner scoring opportunities; to create space for your team-mates in the scoring zone; as well as manufacture goalshot chances of your own.
Have you always displayed these characteristics in your hockey or has it been something you’ve worked on?
“I think explosive pace and energy, as well as quick hands and scoring ability have been strengths of mine from a young age.
“Conditioning and fitness have improved over time and with that has exploited my natural ability to the fullest. Plus of course the amount of time on the turf, which also contributes to improvement.
“Quick hands and eye for the goal are aspects that we diligently worked on with Mr Mackay at trainings and the more time we spent on the turf the better I became in these aspects of the game.”
Effective strikers are often targeted… Inevitably closely marked and shadowed by dogged defenders whose singular focus when your team is in position is
a) to stop you getting the ball
and
b) prevent you from unloading goalshots
– and probably a couple of other things too.
It can be niggly, annoying stuff, as many a frustrated striker will tell you, so how would you describe your temperament on the turf?
“Aaaah that’s easy sir; tenacious yet calm and relaxed under pressure.”
Short and sweet; uncomplicated. I like.
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Westville first hockey team had an outstanding season. The consistent run of form… – was a lot of it due to Mr Mackay? How has he helped improve your game?
“Yes, the success of the Westville first hockey team was hugely due to our coach Cameron Mackay.
“Although tough, hard on the boys, Mr Mackay also knows how to have fun with us. The hard, uncompromising no-excuses nature of his coaching pushes the boys to do well and improve, whilst the fun aspect keeps them motivated.
“Over the years Mr Mackay has pushed and encouraged me to always do better and achieve my full potential. He has backed me and believed in me since I began at the school in grade 8.
“I would not be the hockey player I am today if it were not for the instrumental role that Mr Mackay played in my career; as my coach and mentor.
“There have been other coaches that have also contributed to my success on the turf but none quite as majorly as Mr Mackay, thank you sir, I owe much to you.”
Who better to coach a hugely promising striker than a highly experienced striker? Caleb Carney’s mentor is the highly regarded Cameron Mackay.
Grateful players… Not necessarily easy to find, especially the talented individuals for whom it comes so easily at school level.
I suspect that Caleb Carney has got two vital aspects of his hockey development nailed down – hard (smart) work makes for maximising natural talent.
So Caleb, at what age did you start playing hockey, which primary school and where is it, and which coaches, apart from Mr Mackay, have had the most influence in growing your game – and how?
“Sir, I started playing hockey at the age of 6 at Hillcrest Primary School. My first major influence as a coach was Mr Scott Munn, who told me that whatever I did I should never stop playing hockey.
“Another majorly influential coach was Mike Baker my KZN U13B coach, who nicknamed me King Carney and backed me when few others did.”
Has the support of family and friends or particular people been a boost in the good times and the bad?
“Yes sir, definitely. My very supportive family and friends have helped me through disappointments and success throughout the years.
“My family have always been at my games in full force, as well as some of my friends, and it always gave me the extra boost looking up and seeing them watching.
If one thinks of the thousands of hockey-playing schoolboys across the country, you have achieved much in your school hockey career and have worked hard for your recognition and rewards.
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Do you think it might be difficult to motivate yourself to keep working on improving your hockey once school is out and the personality that is Caleb Carney moves on to the next adventure?
“No sir, I love playing hockey and that will always drive me to improve wherever I am playing. My only aim is to have fun and enjoy my hockey. If the fun and the enjoyment are present that is when I play my best.”
Caleb (I love King Carney, thanks for the nickname Bakes!) what has your time at Westville Boys taught you? After all, you have spent 5 years at one of South Africa’s most highly regarded boys high schools.
“Aaaah that’s easy sir. Westville Boys has taught me to always act with respect and integrity. Our motto is the key to what Westville stands for: It says, “Stay the Course” and “May I not shrink from my Purpose”.
“What Westville Boys’ High School has taught me is to stay true. Humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Respect your elders and honour those who deserve to be honoured. I am a Westville Boy and I shall stay true to all I am and never shrink from my purpose. This is what Westville Boys has taught me.”
Phew. Goose-bump stuff. I’m ready to take to the turf right now if King Carney is on my shoulder. Maybe not. Some things are best left undone.
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To wrap it up let’s hear more on King Carney from Westville first team head coach and director of hockey, the highly regarded Cameron Scott Mackay:
“Thanks Jono… Apart from what I said earlier, or in conjunction with my earlier words, Caleb is a hardworking young man who possesses strengths that add so much value.
“Caleb is strong, fast and resilient; he can hit a ball better than most and has a deadly backhand.
“He has also become a fantastic penalty corner drag flicker, scoring plenty of goals this year. His natural touch in front of goal this year saw him finish on 26 goals. During his 50 caps he scored 46 goals.
“But perhaps the key is that Caleb is a gentleman on and off the field and a pleasure to coach.
“Caleb Carney is the epitome of a true Westville Boy.”
Phew some more – Cam Mackay doesn’t give away praise easily; you’ve got to earn it by your actions. Clearly King Carney has passed the Cam Test with flying colours.
KZN10.com wishes you everything of the best, Caleb, in life and your hockey future.
Go get young man.
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Michaelhouse’s multifaceted Mubeezi Lubinga
Michaelhouse first team hockey and soccer captain, Head of House… Mubeezi Lubinga has a great personality, people are naturally drawn to him, but he backs that people ease through his deeds. Let’s find out more…
Mubeezi, great to have you on KZN10.com! You have spent your high school years at one of South Africa’s flagship educational institutions. What has your time at Michaelhouse taught you, what have been the biggest takeaways that you feel will stay with you well into the future?
Featured image: Personality and example powers the Mubeezi Lubinga brand of leadership.
“Thank you, Sir, I am honoured and privileged that you asked to interview me. To answer your question, aside from the etiquette – the manner in which one must conduct oneself in society – I have had the pleasure of meeting such incredible people here at Michaelhouse.
“There are many talented boys at Michaelhouse and what I have taken away from them is: If you want to achieve something, it is possible, as long as you truly believe it. It sounds like a cliché – and it is something we all hear – but it is so true, and it was only after meeting and watching extraordinary sportsmen, pupils and musicians that I actually came to believe it.
“In fact, had I learnt this cliché was true earlier in life, my life at this point may well have been very different, in the sense that I would have chased my dreams with more intent, knowing I could actually achieve them.”
Brothers, schoolmates, team-mates – Mubeezi and Mugabi Lubinga.
Well, you have done pretty well as it is Mubeezi, so mark it down to the learning curve that (unfortunately or perhaps fortunately) never ends.
So, as the Michaelhouse first team hockey and soccer captain: What’s it like being the go-to man, the ‘leader of the pack’?
“I like to think that my enthusiasm and passion brings out the best in my team-mates.”
Mubeezi is Head of Farfield House – at Michaelhouse there are 8 Houses so 8 Heads of House, with the Head Prefect above them. Each House has House Prefects as well.
So, one of the school’s leaders, Mubeezi started the hockey season and his role as first team captain at centre link before moving to his preferred position of centre back. “I enjoy centre back because I like the defensive responsibilities the position brings but I know, too, that I can offer value on attack.”
Making it count: Michaelhouse first team soccer captain and left wing-back Mubeezi Lubinga gets the game going in front of the Meadows faithful.
A massive Manchester United fan, on the football field Mubeezi’s role is a little different: “I play left wing-back. It enables me to attack down the wing but I do have to get back and defend. I add value to the team by putting in crosses and being a target in the box for corners and set-pieces.”
Mubeezi has certainly caught the eye of hockey selectors over the years and had he been available for the KZN Inland U18 side this year my gut feel suggests an SA Schools A or B cap would have been a distinct possibility. Mubeezi also wasn’t available for soccer selection – matric preliminary exams take precedence in this young man’s mind.
There has been a steady progression through the ranks. KZN Inland U14A selection was followed by Inland U16A for two years and U18A last year. Mubeezi was also selected for the SA U16B side while playing in that age group.
Recent KZN10.com feature focus Andre Bradford of Maritzburg College is challenged by Michaelhouse skipper Mubeezi Lubinga during the 12-goal Aitken’s Astro thriller. Red Army 7 Michaelhouse 5.
“I loved playing the fast-paced hockey at Interprovincial Nationals and it was always one of the highlights of my hockey season. Unfortunately, I have never won an IPT. In the KZN Inland sides I played in, we finished runners-up in the U14A age group, third and second in my two U16A years and second last year, for the U18As (Inland lost the 2017 final to Western Province on the Kearsney College Astro). When I played for South Africa U16B we played Namibia and two other South African sides.”
In the initial stage of his high school soccer career, Mubeezi represented Midlands and then gained selection for KZN U14 (in football there is no KZN Inland and KZN Coastal but as in rugby the greater Pietermaritzburg and Durban regions are combined for national tournaments).
KZN Inland U14 hockey selection at that time meant that Mubeezi had the rare opportunity to experience both the hockey and soccer vibe at national tournaments – and the hockey experience is the one that sticks more in his mind.
“The soccer experience was much different to that of a hockey IPT and I have to admit I enjoy the whole vibe and experience of a hockey IPT more.”
What a feeling! Mubeezi Lubinga scores during the surprise 2-1 win over Clifton College on Aitken’s.
Midlands U16 selection was the next step on the Mubeezi Lubinga football journey. As with hockey, Mubeezi did not make himself available for selection at a higher level this year.
So how many years and how many matches has Mubeezi played first team hockey at Michaelhouse and does he feel his game has developed since the debut match?
“I’ve played first team hockey for two years, and have played around 36 games if I am not mistaken. My game has evolved almost completely since my debut. I feel I have grown as a player, adding far more value to the team over time, a more complete player.”
Unsurprisingly (I was privileged to be in the right place at the right time – it was a wonderful occasion) there is no hesitation from Mubeezi as to his most memorable hockey game in the Red and White colours of Michaelhouse.
“It has to be this year’s 4-2 victory over Hilton on Aitken’s Astro, for the simple reason that we hadn’t beaten them in two years and it was my last Hilton/MHS on our home Astro.”
Captain Mubeezi Lubinga (back, 5th from left) and the 2018 Michaelhouse first hockey team with coach Richard Snowden.
On the soccer front, at the time of writing Mubeezi had around 21 first team games under the belt in this the second of his two-year stint in the side. “My influence in the team has changed a bit – more a defensive role than previously, while as a senior player there is more accountability.”
And yet again it’s a Hilton/Michaelhouse that stands out. In this case, as Mubeezi’s fondest soccer memory.
“My most memorable game for Michaelhouse would have to in grade 10 be when we (U16A) beat Hilton 7-1 on Meadows. There was a powerful synergy amongst us that day and that was my best performance in a football match… and it was even more significant in that it was against Hilton.”
Having watched quite a few of their matches, I felt that the Michaelhouse first hockey team had a pretty good season but at the same time an uneasy feeling persisted that it could have produced more. Would Mubeezi agree?
“Our season this year was definitely an improvement on last year but I feel we could’ve done a little bit better with the team we had. When we travelled to Uplands for the ISHF (Independent Schools’ Hockey Festival) we did have one or two games which I feel we could’ve done better. But the biggest disappointment was our 5-0 loss to St John’s at Michaelhouse. That just was not our day.”
Unfortunately a chance for KZN10.com to watch the Michaelhouse firsts soccer lads of 2018 hasn’t become a reality as yet. So what sticks out for Mubeezi this year and what will be recalled when he catches up with his soccer schoolmates on Old Boys’ Days in the future?
“We have had a good year so far. The St David’s tour was a disappointment but at the time of our discussion here, we remain unbeaten in KZN after beating, Northwood, Kearsney and Hilton.
Michaelhouse 1st soccer team (skip Mubeezi, back, 3rd player from left) a happy bunch after beating Northwood 2-0 on Meadows.
“We have the Maritzburg Cup coming up after our half-term break (this BIG Weekend in PMB and Midlands soccer takes place at Howick High from Friday, August 24 to the Sunday, August 26 Finals Day) and then we finish the season against Westville, which could well turn out to be our toughest game.”
So who are the Michaelhouse firsts hockey players that Mubeezi feels have had a particularly good year?
“The first name that springs to mind is Ben Rebeck. He had a spectacular season and I cannot wait to watch him play next year in his 3rd year of 1st team hockey. In terms of discipline and determination, Thabang Moephuli and Dom Leslie are two people who displayed these values through and through – and Angus Ferguson, being the top assister, had a memorable final season too.”
As with hockey, I think it’s fair to say that a soccer team is only as good as the team dynamics. Given the aforementioned, as far as firsts soccer is concerned, and granted that the season is by no means over, who – so far – are the players in Mubeezi’s team that he feels are having enterprising seasons?
Euphoria: Michaelhouse football skipper Mubeezi Lubinga (far left) and team congratulate Thabo Dlamini on his goal in the 2-0 victory over Hilton College.
“Levin Kamau and Thabo Dlamini are both having unreal seasons and it is no surprise Thabo was selected for KZN. Our team is much younger this year but the grade 11’s have really stepped up to the plate and that is one of the main reasons we remain unbeaten in KZN.”
Given his love for both, this is a BIG question: Which of hockey and soccer does Mubeezi prefer? Or is that an unfair question – do they each have their own attractions?
“In all honesty I have grown to prefer hockey over soccer. Nevertheless, each sport has its attractions.”
A COMMANDING PRESENCE: Michaelhouse leader Mubeezi Lubinga brings his personality to the fore on the pitch.
Mubeezi, as mentioned, I have yet to see you play soccer but what struck me in the numerous House firsts hockey matches I was privileged to watch this year, you exhibit a remarkably cool, composed temperament – and lead by example. Traits that are inherent in your make-up and no doubt iterated on the soccer pitch.
Further, you possess the calling card of all outstanding players – unhurried, measured in your actions… which, as far as is possible – given the inevitable “unforeseens” that make sport such an attraction – bring about the desired intentions. Have you always had these enviable characteristics in your game or has it been something you’ve worked on, were you once a bit of a hot-head (lol) on the park?
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“I have never been a hot-head but I have played in many teams with hot-heads!” Mubeezi chuckles.
“Seriously, I feel I always had the characteristics within me that you mentioned, but they really came to the fore towards the end of last year. I guess the more I play and train, the more confident I get – and that confidence allows me to play the game at my pace, enables me to take control. It also allows me to keep my cool in difficult situations during games.”
So at what age did Mubeezi start playing soccer? And which coach has had the most influence in growing his game – and how?
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“I have been playing soccer all my life but for the first time competitively when I was about six years old. This was for a football club in Polokwane. The coach that had the most influence in growing my soccer is probably Michaelhouse’s Mr Ian Crawford. Mr Crawford simply gave me the freedom to express myself – and that season with him was my most successful season to date.”
When did the hockey journey begin? “I started playing hockey when I was 10 at Clifton Nottingham Road. “Our Michaelhouse first team coach Mr (Richard) Snowden has had the most influence in developing my game. I think it’s because Mr Snowden was meticulous with his appraisals and he wanted to see my game flourish – and that just encouraged me to get better and improve everywhere I could.”
Mubeezi’s next answer made me smile! “I always felt my worst games happened when my older brother, Edgar, was watching! Simply because I felt under pressure for some weird reason! However, my younger brother (2018 first team and Old Mutual iWYZE Hockey Nationals U16 Player of the Tournament) Mugabi was a massive boost for me, as well as my mother and my U16A coach, Mrs (Tanith) von Mayer. The memorable wins were infinitely better with the support of these people.”
Mubeezi Lubinga, the Head of Farfield House as Michaelhouse, is planning to study at UCT next year. And in terms of sport? “I am undecided on playing soccer competitively, I am leaning towards playing it socially. On the other hand, I do plan on playing Varsity Cup hockey, so my competitive hockey career will continue.”
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It’s been a pleasure talking to you, Mubeezi. Anything else you would like to add?
“Thanks again, Sir. There is a highlights video of our hockey season, which is available on YouTube at the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI9UBFpjt9E if you or anyone reading this interview is interested.”
Thanks Mubeezi, I will make a point of watching it. Best wishes for your grade 12 exams and for what lies ahead in a future that offers you so many possibilities.
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Maritzburg College’s Braderz ticks all the right boxes
APPROACHING it, doing it, the right way… every time.
SA Schools hockey player, Maritzburg College first XI cricket captain, prominent school leader and noted academic Andre Bradford is one of those quietly efficient boys who gets on with the job with the minimum of fuss and produces the goods.
Feature image: WALKING TALL – Andre Bradford… SA Schools.
KZN10.com wanted to find out more – So Andre, what was your overall impression of last month’s SA U18 vs Oz U17 Schoolboys series, what you learnt from it about yourself as a player, was there a good vibe between the teams, the atmosphere during the matches?
“I will never forget the surreal feeling I experienced walking onto the field on the first night, lining up, singing the national anthem…
A PROUD MOMENT: Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika… Andre Bradford is 5th from the left.
“It was an amazing opportunity and a great honour to be a part of an SA Schools team but it’s even better to be able to participate for that team against another country. Playing against Australia was an experience that I will never forget, and I think it is a good initiative to improve schoolboy hockey in South Africa.
“With the matches being held during the U16 iWYZE Old Mutual Boys and Girls Hockey Nationals – and so much hype about the series beforehand – the crowds on all three nights were bigger than I have ever played in front of and the atmosphere was electric.
ASTRO SPRAY: Braderz makes sure.
“The series was hard-fought, challenged me to my limits and taught me lots of lessons – on and off the field. I learnt so much in training from our head coach Mr Devon van der Merwe as well as Mr Krinesan Moodley (St Alban’s College director of sport and Northern Blues men’s head coach) – and just being able to play and train with the best schoolboy players in the country improved my game.
“The vibe between the two teams was friendly and the games were played in good spirit. The two teams had a few opportunities to get to know each other and I’m sure some of those friendships will live long after the series. Overall, I thought the whole series was a huge positive for me personally and for schoolboy hockey in South Africa and I feel privileged to have been a part of it.”
ISOLATED BUT IN CONTROL AS THE AUSSIES HOVER.
And what about Andre’s favourite 2018 iWYZE Old Mutual Hockey Nationals match in KZN Inland colours? Where, as mentioned, KZN Inland were silver medallists to a very smart KZN Coastal team piloted by head coach Keegan Pierce (Clifton College director of hockey) and captain Guy Morgan (Kearsney College).
“My favourite match… probably the semi-final against (defending champions) Western Province. In previous years I have played against Province and on all three occasions I have lost. Being a semi-final, it was always going to be a big game. I think what made it so special was the fact that we defended so well and were able to take our chances at crucial moments. Beating Province for the first time will always be memorable.”
In that match, KZN Inland head coach Matt Fairweather (Hilton College) devised the perfect game plan. It was in KZN10.com’s opinion one of the most flawless schoolboy hockey team performances seen in decades of watching stick-and-ball schoolboy classics.
On a nuts-and-bolts issue, Andre
Bradford also performed the vital role of penalty corner injection trapper for Maritzburg College and KZN Inland – and when necessary for SA Schools.
Andre’s thoughts on the set-piece technicalities? “It’s really important to have a quick, accurate push because with a good stop it allows the flicker much more time at the top of the D, thus giving the flicker the chance to pick any spot on the goal. With a slow or inaccurate push and stop, often the first wave will run the flicker down, and not allow them to get a flick off.”
HOW IT’S DONE: Andre Bradford traps the penalty corner injection to perfection, affording KZN Inland team-mate Luke Grove – the Hilton College striker had a brilliant Old Mutual iWYZE Nationals – the ultimate lead-in to drag-flick showtime.
It’s a no-brainer that achieving SA Schools selection doesn’t just happen. It’s the schoolboy hockey player’s most coveted prize… many years of toil on training pitches have already been banked in learning, then honing, skills/tactical/technical knowledge before implementing the full package come big-match time, thereby catching the national selectors’ attention.
“I started playing hockey when I was 7 years old. Paul Gonlag was a big influence in my primary school years, encouraging me to use my talent and work hard.”
* A soldier of the game in KZN Inland, Eston Primary’s Paul Gonlag has nurtured some astonishing young talent both at his school and in provincial U13 sides – the sight of now SA men’s striker Tevin Kok, probably the smallest boy at that particular U13 Hockey Nationals, wielding his hockey wand like a wizard (mixed metaphor? You be the judge) on Papes will remain forever-etched in my bank of hockey memories. Let’s get back to Andre before I wander off in a fairy-tale of memories.
“In high school, Mr Swart, Mr (Kyle) Emerson (MC and KZN Inland U16A head coach) and Mr (Devon) van der Merwe (then MC hockey director, now Hilton College first team and SA Schools’ coach), pushed me and improved my technical ability immensely.
“Also having been coached this year by the likes of Mr Coombes (MC) and Mr Fairweather (KZN Inland), I learnt a lot about what it takes to play at the top levels because they are experienced at the highest level.”
On the domestic front – the following number of paragraphs illustrates what it means for a boy to represent his school:
Saturday, 4 August was The Big Show… Andre and the boys’ last match in a Red Army shirt… their last match on Fortress Pape’s Astro… Maritzburg College Reunion Saturday… an expectant crowd, many seeing their only alma mater match of the year… wanting to assure those Old Boys, in the flesh, that Maritzburg College hockey was maintaining its heritage of excellence – and it couldn’t have been scripted any better than what happened for real.
The Red Army put on a stunning first half… totally in keeping with the illustrious traditions of MC first team hockey. A good KES side, who were shaded 2-1 in the Johannesburg leg of this biannual fixture, were subjected to a 4-0 blitzkrieg in the first 30 minutes. The grizzled Old Boys, most still a little fragile from the festivities the night before, were impressed… an adjective that actually doesn’t do justice to their assessment.
“The first KES match in Johannesburg (4 May) was a tough one, having travelled up there the day before. It is never easy against a dogged KES team. I think the first game came down to us taking our chances in a tight game. I am sure KES came to Pape’s with lots of motivation to try and turn that around. They are a team that never give up and play with a lot of heart.”
Indeed, once KES had absorbed the 4-0 first-half rout, they were much better after the changeover, but the end-game score was 5-0. You don’t allow any Red Army side a four-goal lead.
Braderz sets to nail the target-man pass as Fortress Pape’s team-mates Adrian Greaves and captain Russell Stainbank look on from the Thirsti Water End.
“The College boys were extremely motivated – Reunion Day, the watching Old Boys, final game of the season, the very last game for the Grade 12’s. It was an emotional one for all of us. Having said that, it was important that we all focused on doing our job – and then savoured the moment when it was all over.
“We are so fortunate to have been involved in such a professional hockey programme at College. I have trained under a series of great coaches on Pape’s. The past two years, playing for 1st team, have grown me enormously as a player and the two years are packed with good memories.
“Despite the 5-0 and the excellent team performance, it was to an extent a sad moment when the final whistle went and the realisation hit that I would never again be able to pull the shirt on and play for the Red Army.
THE RED ARMY CLASS OF 2018 SAYS GOODBYE: Thanking their supporters on Red Army Hill for the last time.
“I will always be grateful for the opportunity I was given to represent College and will cherish the memories for the rest of my life.”
KZN10: Andre, apart from your hockey achievements, your cricketing and academic prowess has also been notable. As the Maritzburg College first XI cricket captain, wicketkeeper and top-order batsman, plus a deputy head prefect, as well as one of the school’s leading grade 12 academics, do you find the responsibility puts a strain on you or brings out the best?
Andre: Definitely brings out the best in me. I’ve always been really busy and I find I do better under pressure. There are times when I struggle with it all but I always seem to find a way through it.
LONELINESS OF THE LONG-DISTANCE BATTER: Braderz (at Glenwood in this image) is always in it for the long haul.
KZN10: You obviously have an extremely busy schedule as far as sport, academics and student leadership is concerned, how do you manage your time in order to do justice to all these activities plus have some leisure time?
AB: I don’t procrastinate much, so when I do something, I do it properly and don’t waste time. I also organise everything in advance so I can see where I’ll need to apply myself more. This allows me to have enough time for everything and be able to do it to the best of my ability.
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KZN10: You played a key role in the 2018 Maritzburg College first hockey team’s successful year – and in the excellent KZN Inland team that did everything but win the iWYZE Old Mutual Boys U18 Hockey Nationals on Pape’s Astro at Maritzburg College last month, what is it about your hockey that has enabled you to add value to your teams?
“I am a midfielder but I’m also able to play at the back. I find myself most comfortable playing a deep centre mid (a deep blocker) position because I enjoy distributing. In this role I was able to do this more often than not – and being quite a defensive player, I was able to add value to the defensive unit of both my school and provincial team.”
In your hockey, cricket careers so far, what representative teams/squads have you played/been selected for? Provincial and SA.
“In cricket, KZN Inland U17 (last year), in hockey, KZN Inland U14A, U16B, U16A, U18B, U18A, and SA U16B, and SA U18A.”
There you have the evidence of a sportsman’s consistency over time and progression up the ladder, one step-up, followed by another.
Braderz made his Red Army first team hockey debut at the beginning of last year and as of the last match of the season, the 5-0 defeat of KES on Maritzburg College Old Boys Day Saturday, 4 August, was not far off 50 appearances. So how has his game improved over the two years?
“I have come a long way since my Red Army debut, developed a lot mentally and technically. In my first few games I really struggled with the speed and intensity but gradually got used to it and able to keep up with it. I’ve become a lot more confident in my ability and feel much more comfortable on the Astro.”
* Dylan Coombes, in his first year as Maritzburg College director of hockey and first team head coach, has completed a wonderful season in which the school’s depth and quality of hockey across the age-groups has ensured a remarkable win/loss percentage.
So Braderz, which has been your most memorable Red Army match?
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“It has to be Westville last year. We played at home and won 8-2. Mr Swart, who was our coach and is now the deputy headmaster, co-curricular, always spoke about ebbs and flows of sports – and this was definitely the highest point of our season.
“As I mentioned, we played on our home pitch, Pape’s Astro, and everything just seemed to fall into place – we took the majority of our chances and controlled possession for very long periods of the game. It was a very strong Westville side at the time and that’s what made it such a memorable victory.”
Westville versus Red Army is always a massive contest. A couple of years ago, the 2015 Maritzburg College Reunion Saturday, outstanding Westville captain Ryan Bradfield led his side to a memorable win over yet another very good Red Army squad.
As I write, I vividly recall the disappointment etched on the faces of that particular MC first side as they trooped off Pape’s. Andre and his grade 12’s of the Red Army Class of 2018 are indeed fortunate to have experienced a diametrically different outcome to their red-letter day.
And this year, at Westville, director of hockey and first team coach Cam Mackay’s posse of high-calibre players scored one of the rare 2018 victories over College’s star-studded Red Army, so Andre’s favourite game – placed in all these contexts – indicates just how well coach Brandon Swart and his Red Army’s plans came together in the 8-2 of 2017.
And on the cricket front?
“I started playing cricket at the end of my grade 10 year, in 2016, I think I have approximately 46 caps for the 1st team. When I first started out I was very weak and didn’t understand my game very well. With all the coaching and experience, though, I have developed good game plans and now am able to bat longer periods and absorb pressure better. I have also developed lots on the mental side of cricket and feel I am a lot more positive than when I first started.”
In first XI cricket terms, the match Braderz signals as extra-special can also be placed in context of the calibre of the opposition. St Stithians College cricket, under the direction of Wim Jansen, have held sway in South African schoolboy cricket over a number of cricket seasons in these early years of the 21st Century.
“Yes, my most memorable first XI cricket match has to be beating St Stithians on the first day of Oppenheimer Michaelmas Cricket Week last year on Goldstones.
Maritzburg College first XI captain and wicketkeeper/batsman Andre Bradford’s catch behind has clearly found favour with Jared Campbell (left) and Brynley Noble.
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“We bowled first and got St Stithians for 149. The wicket was quite grassy, so even batting second wasn’t the easiest but the top order batted well to chase it down and win by 6 wickets. At the time Saints were regarded as being number 1 in the country and this was a very good result for us. I’ll never forget that game.”
So where did the Captain Dre cricket journey begin?
“As in hockey, I also started playing cricket when I was about 7 years old. Chris Anderson was my private coach for many years as I grew up and he helped me develop my technical skills.
“Recently, Doug Watson (a recent MC cricket director, first XI and latterly HP coach) has had a huge impact on my cricketing skills. Also having played at a very high level, Mr Watson’s knowledge of the game and understanding of what works and what can be improved, has been very beneficial to me. He helped me to focus on and understand the mental side of all sports.
“Also, (current first XI head coach and MIC cricket) Dave Pryke, has been a big influence on me and has been very supportive and positive for the past two years of 1st team cricket. He has also really helped me to grow my leadership abilities and is always there to bounce ideas off.”
A CAPTAIN’S ULTIMATE HIGH: Andre Bradford after leading the 2018 Maritzburg College first XI to an historic innings defeat of Michaelhouse in the 2,5 day first term match on Goldstones.
* The knowledge gained in Prykie’s long first-class career has certainly been invaluable to MC first XI cricket in the relatively short time he has been working at his alma mater. Indeed, the first XI management team of head coach Prykie, his assistant Kevin Smith (also MC director of rugby and a prominent MC cricketer in his day), Ellie Pryke the team manager (that husband – the head coach- and wife- the manager – combination is surely unique in SA schoolboy cricket), and biokineticist/conditioning coach Jason Greef is one of the major elements in the hugely talented 2018 team’s success.
I’ve posed the following question in previous KZN10.com feature articles – and I will always pose it to the boy interviewed, it’s that important… – ‘Andre, has the support of family and friends also been a major boost in the good times (making a provincial or SA team for example) and the bad (injuries and illness for example) that are inevitable in every sportsman’s career?’
“Fortunately I come from a very supportive family, Mr Cook. I struggle to remember a game where my parents have not been there to watch. I think at times I take this for granted but it really does make a big difference. My family have never pushed me into anything and always support my decisions and provide all the help they can. None of my success would have been possible without them.
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“My dad (Michel) is someone I can always go to, bounce ideas off and just talk in general about my games and the what-ifs moments. I haven’t had many serious injuries yet, thankfully, but my mom (Gail) has always been there to help me when I’ve been sick, which I’ll always be grateful for.
“My brothers (Paul and Jacques) have also had a huge influence on my sports. I spent most of my childhood playing ball games with them and ‘making’ them throw-down to me or hit at me for long hours.”
Yup – you’ve said it Andre, just about every schoolboy sportsman – whether he plays E’s, F’s and G’s or A’s, B’s and C’s owes much to those who support him.
KZN10.com wishes you everything of the best for the rest of 2018 and the future.
One thing’s for sure – work ethic will not be an Andre Bradford problem.
Andre Bradford off the field? Go to https://kzn10.com/maritzburg-colleges-andre-bradford-in-20-seconds/
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Will it happen? The Now……………… The Then
WELL, this feature has been delayed and delayed in the hope that news would come with respect to who from the various SA sports code teams was going to the Youth Olympic Games but it’s no use waiting any longer. More explanation in the story below. So, here goes: IT wasn’t easy but it was done. The KZN10-packed SA Hockey Fives boys qualified for the Youth Olympic Games in beautiful Buenos Aires, Argentina 6 to 18 October with a heart-stopping penalty shootout win over Zambia in the gold medal match in the city of Algiers, Algeria, a clash in which ace Northwood goalkeeper Taine Bird again demonstrated his awesome shot-stopping ability.
Featured pic: Mission accomplished.
Turning team spirit and application into gold.
After 1-1 at the changeover in that nerve-wracking gold medal match the score remained locked at 1-1 on the full-time whistle. SA missed their first penalty shootout goal attempt; then Bird blocked the first Zambian effort; SA scored their shootout opener in the second round; another Birdy shut-out took care of the second effort by the Zambians before SA scored their second shootout goal to take it 2-0.
Video caption: The nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Catalyst to gold: Top shot-stopper top goalshooters.
Northwood’s Bird is without peer in this facet of the game in SA schoolboy hockey, as demonstrated in his phenomenal effort to shut out Southern Gauteng in iWYZE Old Mutual Hockey Nationals 2018 title winners KZN Coastal’s epic semi-final victory over the boys from Johannesburg.
Captain Guy Morgan and coach Sihle Ntuli (both occupy the same roles at Kearsney College) are to be commended on their leadership over a challenging 8 Algiers days of just five 10 minutes-each-way matches. With so much tournament down-time, it can be difficult to maintain focus on the job at hand.
SA Hockey Fives leaders Sihle Ntuli (coach) and Guy Morgan (captain) do the same job with the Kearsney College first team.
The other KZN10 boys in the SA team are Clifton College captain Matt Lewis and Maritzburg College Red Army lads Jared Campbell and Mpumelelo Maphumulo.
Of the five KZN10 boys, Matt Lewis scored 5 tournament goals; Mpumelelo Maphumulo 3 and Jared Campbell 1.
In Pool A matches SA beat Namibia 5-0, Zimbabwe 6-0 and Algeria 9-0. There were not enough teams (only 3) in Pool B so SA skipped a quarter-final and went straight into the semis where the boys in green and gold beat Nigeria 5-2 after leading 2-1 after the first 10-minute half.
THE SUPER SIX of KZN10 (front from left) Guy Morgan, Jared Campbell (back from left) Mpumulelo Maphumulo, Matt Lewis, Taine Bird, Sigz Ntuli.
That opening-half goal of Nigeria’s was the first conceded by Northwood’s Bird after over an hour of keeping a clean sheet in the SA goals.
Taine Bird arrives home. Done it… Dusted it.
The word is that, as per the International Olympic Committee rules, the SA Sports Congress and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) – the governing body of the Team SA sports codes – can only send one boys’ and one girls’ sports team to the Youth Olympic Games in October.
The SA boys sevens rugby side, which included DHS first XV captain, twice SA Schools Fifteens and twice SA Sevens selection Mpilo Gumede, also won their event.
The 2018 SA Hockey Fives boys deserve – have earned – the right to be in Buenos Aires.
History tells us so: The SA Hockey Fives boys of four years ago also won Africa and finished fourth at the 17-27 August 2014 Nanjing, China Youth Olympic Games, narrowly missing out on a shot at the gold medal after a breath-taking semi-final against eventual winners Australia.
STRENGTH, LEADERSHIP: Kearsney College captain Guy Morgan has led school, province and country with an unfailing consistency of performance. Photo Tracey van den Aardweg.
Interestingly, this year’s defending Youth Olympic Games champs Australian team includes the Marais brothers – the sons of former Jeppe HC and Wits/Southern Gauteng defender Rob Marais.
THIS IS WHAT IS POSSIBLE
The SA boys of 2014 included the Maritzburg College Red Army’s captain Tyson Dlungwana and his super-goal-shooter teammate Tevin Kok plus the equally destructive goal-net burster, the SA Hockey Fives captain Bili Ntuli of Kearsney College, and outstanding Westville defender and captain Jacques Bleekers.
The 2014 Youth Olympic Games matches in China were 20 minutes-each-way affairs.
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The Boys of 2014 started in Pool A with a 1-5 demolition at the hands of eventual finalists Canada, who lost the 2014 gold medal match to Oz in a gripping penalty shootout.
Just 47 hours later in Pool A, Ntuli and Co. shocked Oz 6-5 before edging Bangladesh 4-3, followed by a final Pool A 0-6 shutout at the hands of Spain. The SA lads then gave New Zealand a 3-0 defeat in the quarter-finals before meeting Oz again, this time in the semis.
Once again it was an absolute cracker but sadly for SA the 7-goal semi-final thriller ended 4-3 to Oz.
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Given their 0-6 blanking by the Spanish in their Pool A clash, the SA boys put up a tremendous fight against the selfsame Spaniards in the 2014 Youth Olympic Games bronze medal match, coming back from 1-5 to 3-5 then 4-6 (Tevin Kok 2, Bili Ntuli 1, Jacques Bleekers 1) with 6 minutes left before Spain took the match 7-4.
Two yellow cards in the match (both SA) didn’t help the green-and-gold cause.
Jono and KZN10.com hopes that this review of the 2014 Hockey Fives Youth Olympic Games competition will whet the appetite should SASCOC and the International Olympic Committee smile on the current SA Hockey Fives lads’ inclusion in the 2018 showpiece from 6 to 18 October in Argentina.
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Apparently the IOC only allow one boys and one girls team from each country. Considering that the IOC is cash-flush, one wonders why – through these restrictions – they would want to dilute the quality of the competition.
Apparently Africa Hockey Fives boys silver medallists and bronze medallists Kenya will be at the Youth Olympic Games. They have been chosen by their national sports bodies as the boys’ representatives from their countries.
One doesn’t need to harness much imagination to imagine what the Aussies must think.
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* Held every four years, the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) is the younger sibling of the Olympics. For youth players around the world, this summer tournament provides the opportunity to test their skills against the best (?) emerging players in world hockey. The buzz in the stadia from the Hockey5s competition at Nanjing in 2014 shows the growing international popularity of hockey among young sportsmen and women.
Last 2018 match: Maritzburg College 1st hockey 5 KES 0
MARITZBURG College first team coach Dylan Coombes gave high praise to his boys as their outstanding season came to a close in fine style with a 5-0 victory over King Edward VII School (KES) on Papes Astro Saturday.
It was one to savour, too, for the many Old Boys gathered in the KZN capital for the Maritzburg College Reunion Weekend.
Also filling the director of hockey position at Maritzburg College, it must give Dylan cause for much satisfaction in Saturday’s overall tally of played 16, won 11, drew 3 and lost 2. These stats are certainly in keeping with the consistency in Maritzburg College hockey through the age groups this year and the strength in depth in each age group.
Courtesy of Maritzburg College marketing, here are Dylan’s thoughts on Saturday’s 5-0 first team win over KES.
Maritzburg College’s Keegan Kleiner in possession during the 5-0 win over KES on Papes Astro.
“Maritzburg College won the previous encounter 2-1 one in a close contest and the expectation was that it would be another close match.
“Maritzburg College however had other plans and put in one of their best performances of the year. College’s intentions were clear in their clinical and sharp approach to everything they did and also had the lion’s share of the possession throughout the match.
“College took just short of 3 minutes to open their account when fine interplay between Adrian Greaves and Angelo Walstroom won the first penalty corner. The penalty corner execution, whilst far from perfect, proved effective when Gregory Will pushed the ball home after slight confusion at the top of the circle.
The passion of the Maritzburg College boys in supporting the firsts (Red Army) has been worth a goal a game.
“Just two minutes later and College would recycle and transfer the ball superbly to the left flank finding Mpumelelo Maphumulo in space. With a brilliant backhand pass into the circle he found Angelo Walstroom who, having found excellent space, took the tally to two with a brilliant deflection goal.
“College continued to dominate proceedings but it took until the 26th minute to further extend their lead, when Keegan Kleiner found himself in the circle and rolled the ball to a free Mpumelelo Maphumulo.
“Maphumulo received across his body and struck the ball well into the bottom left corner (3-0). The first half barrage from College was not done yet. Angelo Walstroom again received in good space in the circle. With calm and composed play he clinically protected the ball, turned and fired on his forehand into the bottom right corner, which would see the half out with College 4-0 up.
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“The College outfit continued the dominant play into the second half, creating many more opportunities. In the 9th minute College earned themselves a penalty corner. Captain Russell Stainbank and Andre Bradford combined beautifully in what has become a go-to call for College this year. With a perfect pass from Stainbank, Bradford clinically deflected home on the backhand for the 5-0 end result.
“College could easily have built on this lead but could afford to let their foot off the pedal. It was a fine display to see a great season close on Pape’s.”
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Thanks Dylan, it certainly has been a memorable first year for you in the director of hockey and first team coach positions at Maritzburg College.
Summary of Maritzburg College vs KES results
Played 16
Won 11
Lost 2 (staggered matches MC U16E vs KES 0-1 and MC U16G vs KES U16D 0-3)
Drew 3
SPECIFIC TEAM RESULTS
(MC score first)
1sts 5-0
2nds 6-0
3rds won 3-1
4th won 5-0
U16A drew 1-1
U16D vs KES U16B won 2-1
U16E vs KES U16C lost 0-1
U16Fvs KES U16C won 2-0
U16G vs KES U16D lost 0-3
U14A drew 1-1
U14B won 3-2
U14C drew 1-1
U14D won 6-1
U14E won 7-2
Great communication skill makes for a great team.
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IT’S ALMOST TIME! Maritzburg College vs KES
AROUND about 8 to 8.30 Saturday morning, the first of many hockey and then rugby matches will get under way at Maritzburg College, as King Edward VII School (KES) make their annual winter pilgrimage to the Home of the Red, Black and White.
CATHY AVIDON featured image: KES first XV inside centre Ambrin Snyders in the thick of things with Jacques van der Walt (10) and Ethan Heuer (12) of Maritzburg College in the May 4 match-up at KES won 37-18 by the hosts.
Three months ago, almost to the day, Maritzburg College completed the first leg of the biannual winter sports exchange – on May 4.
And what makes this year’s return fixtures extra special is that they take place on Saturday, August 4 during the annual Maritzburg College Old Boys’ Reunion weekend.
KES left wing TK Molotsi halts Maritzburg College right winger Anele Nzimande with fullback Neil Hoffman in support.
Photo Cathy Avidon
KZN10.com asked KES headmaster Dave Lovatt for his views on the value of these biannual winter sports interactions between two of South Africa’s flagship boys’ high schools:
King Edward VII School headmaster Mr Dave Lovatt.
Mr Lovatt: “It is a great privilege for us to have an exchange with a school that shares so much of the values and traditions we as a school hold so dear. The exchange allows boys and staff to forge friendships across provincial boundaries and test their skills against a school with a proud tradition of sporting and cultural excellence.”
KZN10.com: And what value does this biannual interaction of the boys from the two schools have for the boys themselves, particularly in the dual-parental hosting of the boys from each school and what the boys learn from being accommodated in another family’s home?
Rathabile Selepe of KES tussles for possession with SA U18B player Grant Pio of Maritzburg College in the 2-1 home defeat at KES…
Photo Cathy Avidon
Mr Lovatt: “The billeting out is the key to the exchange as this provides a wonderful opportunity for boys to engage with families they don’t know, to learn to engage and live with a ‘stranger’.
“These situations develop improved communication skills and opportunities to be placed in an environment outside their comfort zone. Many of the boys have developed an improved level of self-confidence as a direct result of this exchange.”
SA U18 hockey player Joshua Finlay of KES on the ball with Maritzburg College’s SA U18 player Andre Bradford tracking back and team-mate Tiaan Prinsloo observing in the home side’s 2-1 defeat on May 4.
Photo Cathy Avidon
Well, I think Mr Lovatt has hit the nail on the head. If KZN10.com may say, the educational pluses far outweigh victories and losses.
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That said, we can be sure that all the teams at Maritzburg College on Saturday will be going all-out to give of their best and bring honour to their respective schools.
A perfect spot for refreshment on the long trek home. Take a look at https://www.fordoun.com/
Let the games hurry up and begin!
For more info on Maritzburg College the school go to http://maritzburgcollege.co.za/
For more info on KES the school go to http://www.kes.co.za/
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.
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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.