HOCKEY
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
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.
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.
Remember when… The 2007 KZN10 hockey season in review
I’ve thrown in a number of bits and pieces from my memories of that year.
Featured image: 2007 Kearsney College captain & SA Schools defender Greg Last who went on to represent SA and play for numerous seasons in KZN Raiders title-winning teams and in Europe for his Belgian club.
Maritzburg College were the top-rated KZN team, having played 17 games won 14 lost 3.
Living Legend: Mike Bechet… an incredible record as a schoolboy hockey coach in SA.
Next up with 15 goals were the penalty corner drag-flick guided missiles of the exceptionally strong powerfully-built left ⬅ half Tyron Mingard who wasn’t the sort of guy a striker looked forward to playing against.
Nine Maritzburg College first team players represented KZN Midlands at the Interprovincial Nationals in Port Elizabeth.
The Willowton, Pietermaritzburg based Greenfields team are now the biggest players in the synthetic sports turf market with prominent names in the SA hockey fraternity such as the legend that is Tommy Hammond among the staff led by former outstanding player and current international umpire Ayden Shrives.
Thomas More College had their first player selected for SA Schools – current Kearsney College first team head coach Sihle Ntuli.
In 2007 the current Kearsney College head coach Sihle Sigz Ntuli became the first (and only) Thomas More College boy to be selected for SA Schools.
* Astonishing when one looks at it now, Clifton College – one of the top teams in SA this year – were a second-tier hockey school in 2007. Clifton’s rapid hockey progress is one of the most remarkable KZN10 success stories.
Our Boys of KZN10 in SA Hockey 5s & Rugby 7s for Youth OG Qualifier
FIVE of the 8 players selected for the SA Fives hockey team to take part in the July 19-28 Africa Youth Games Qualifier tournament for October’s Youth Olympic Games are from KZN10 schools while DHS number 8 and captain Celimpilo Gumede is in the SA Sevens squad. The KZN10 hockey boys are Taine Bird of Northwood (Taine a recent feature article in KZN10.com), Guy Morgan (Kearsney College), Mphumelelo Maphumulo and Jared Campbell (both Maritzburg College) and Matt Lewis of Clifton College (KZN10.com knows how to pick ’em – Matt is another recent feature on your favourite website). And to top it all, Kearsney head coach Sihle Ntuli will be the man in charge.
Feature image: DHS captain and number 8 Celimpilo Gumede in SA 7s squad.
Northwood and SA 5’s shot-stopper Taine Bird is outstanding on the indoor hockey arena and Astro surfaces… a great base for Hockey Fives best practice.
The Africa Qualifier event is in Algiers, Algeria and the rugby and hockey winners go to The Big Show – the Youth Olympic Games in the City of Super-Friendly Beautiful Girls (trust me on this one, the Argie girls love SA guys) – Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Kearsney College captain Guy Morgan is heading to Algiers with his SA Hockey 5s team-mates for their shot at qualifying for The Big Show in Buenos Aires.
Photo Tracey van den Aardweg
Ahem… We gotta qualify first… Yes, dear KZN10.com fans, it’s make or break in Algiers as it is the single opportunity for South Africa to make it to The Big Show in the stunning South American country that is Argentina.
Mphumulelo Maphumulo’s laser-sharp target is the Africa Qualifier Hockey 5s gold medal with the SA team in the Algerian capital city of Algiers July 18-29.
Photo Matt Marshall
The Youth Olympics is for players age 14 to 18. The 2014 Africa qualifier was in Gaborone, Botswana which featured over 50 African countries. The inaugural Games were in Morocco in 2010.
The pace off a standing start and stick-ball dexterity of Mphumulelo’s Maritzburg College team-mate Jared Campbell will ensure that the Red Army flag flies high in Algeria.
Photo Matt Marshall
TEAMS FOR ALGERIA
RUGBY SEVENS
Christoffel Grobbelaar, Christiaan Pretorius, David Kellerman, Celempilo Gumede (DHS), Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Ross Braude, William Rose, Jacobus Hattingh, Muzilikazi Manyike, Diego Appollis, Ofentse Maubane, Ethinique Adams, Albertus Horn, Juandre de Klerk, Lional April, Remy Engelbrecht, Campbell Willemse
* Squad of 17 to be trimmed to 12 ahead of departure.
Management: Marius Schoeman, Sandile Ngcobo
Clifton College match-winner Matt Lewis will be a massive weapon from penalty corner and field play for the SA Youth team in Algiers.
Photo Terry Lewis
HOCKEY FIVES
Taine Bird (Northwood), Guy Morgan (Kearsney College), Cody Postumus, Mustapha Cassiem, Mphumelelo Maphumulo (Maritzburg College), Matt Lewis (Clifton College), Jared Campbell (Maritzburg College), Peter Jarvis, Luke Wynford
Management: Sihle Ntuli (Kearsney College)
Highly regarded Kearsney College head coach Sihle Ntuli will be the guiding force driving SA Hockey 5s’ trophy quest at the Africa Youth Games next month.
Photo Tracey van den Aardweg
Northwood keeper Taine Bird a shot-stopper of note
HIGHLY-REGARDED Northwood first team hockey goalkeeper Taine Bird is enjoying another successful season. KZN10.com talks to the Durban North-based shot-stopper.
Taine, as the last line of defence, a unique burden – or perhaps “responsibility” is a better word – rests on the goalkeeper’s shoulders. It can be a weight that is overly onerous – especially on one of a first team’s most critical players (2 shots can mean 2 goals and a 2-1 loss despite overall match domination) so how does it affect the Northwood number 1?
Featured image: Northwood and KZN Coastal U18A’s Taine Bird will stop at nothing to keep a clean sheet.
“It brings out the best in me as I thrive under pressure, which boosts my performance in a game,” is Birdy’s quick response.
Giles Bonnet, who captained the 1982 Michaelhouse, Natal Schools and Schools hockey teams before adding the SA men’s captaincy, head coach of the SA men’s and women’s side and more to his illustrious career in the game, once said – when I was reporting on the SA women’s side on behalf of then-sponsors Investec Bank – that a consistently successful hockey team is built on 3 things – a striker who can score and create goalshot chances, an excellent penalty corner attack and defence, and a quality goalkeeper.
With that comes the responsibility of those three facets performing at peak level as often as possible – especially the keeper.
“It’s important to have a cool head during pressure situations,” says the Northwood vice-captain. “I enjoy pressure, taking on responsibility, helping to run a smooth show. It adds value to the team and gives my teammates less stress to cope with during a match.”
Taine’s representative recognition to date is virtually faultless: In outdoor hockey – KZN Coastal U13A, 14, 15, U16 (2 years) and U18 (2017/18) as well as SA U16 (2 years) and SA U17. On the indoor hockey front, Taine was selected for the SA All Stars age-group side and plays in the Northwood first side.
At men’s club level, Taine plays for the Crusaders 1sts in the KZN Premier League.
With 59 first team matches under the belt, the last Northwood match in 2018 being an emphatic win at home against St Benedict’s over the weekend, has the knowledge earned during those fixtures helped improve Taine’s game between the posts?
“The number of earlier first team matches helped me settle down in the position and find my feet. I feel I have developed tremendously since my first match, as I now know more about my own game and my role in the team than I did 2 years ago.”
As the Northwood vice-captain, what are Taine’s thoughts on the first team’s skipper?
“Marco Valle-Dove has done an outstanding job leading the Northwood 1st XI. Marco is so passionate; he’s open and honest with all the boys in the team and does his best to resolve any issues that may arise. As a defender, Marco is a brick wall at the back; not much gets past him! In the general sense, Marco is an outstanding player.”
The Northwood first side of 2018 have experienced highs and relative lows; some matches haven’t gone their way, but Taine feels that the bare stats don’t tell the whole story: “We have had our ups and downs, we haven’t won all our matches but that doesn’t describe our season.
“As a squad we try to measure ourselves on our match performance rather than just the result. We are determined to play our part in further enhancing what is already a very good hockey culture at Northwood. We have had a relatively good season.”
Northwood first team head coach Shaun Baker warms up his keeper Taine Bird.
Apart from his Northwood first team journey now at an end, it is also Taine’s last year in schoolboy representative hockey.
“One of the major challenges coming up is the Interprovincial Nationals tournament during the July holidays as it is my last schoolboy IPT. I’m looking forward to playing a part in securing the gold medal with my KZN Coastal U18A team-mates.”
So how did the Taine Bird hockey adventure begin and who has guided him on his journey?
“I started playing hockey in grade 6 at Northlands Primary. Mr Clive Beetge was my first KZN age-group coach and left a long-lasting impression. Mr Darryn Gallagher (previously Northwood, currently director of hockey at Hilton College) has also had a great influence, as has Mr Michael Wiggett (Northwood hockey coach and chiropractor at Northwood Sports Medical Centre). They have moulded me into the hockey player I am today and have helped in every way possible.
“As much as I appreciate the input of the coaches mentioned, I would have to say that (the current Northwood first team coach and director of hockey) Mr Shaun Baker has had the greatest influence. Mr Baker is constantly helping me improve and wants the best from me. Mr Baker is an excellent coach and while we have the utmost respect, Mr Baker is also able to understand us boys on our level, which leads to a stronger coach/player relationship and is beneficial towards the team.
Playing goalkeeper can all-too-often be a lonely place as, to adapt the well-worn cliché coined by former U.S. president Harry Truman, the buck certainly stops with the, ahem, shot-stopper. Apart from the support of coach and team-mates when the going gets rough, as it always will in a sportsman’s life, who else is there to offer a heads-up to Taine Bird?
“At the end of the day, the support of my family has been what keeps me going… just the thought of that makes me want to perform even better; to make them happy as well as myself.
“I would not be where I am today without the help of my mom (Mel ), my dad (Russell), sister (Saxon), grandmother (Margaret) and my girlfriend ( Hannah ) – and also my friends. They are always there to watch my games when they can and are constantly supporting me in everything that I do. Sometimes I think they are even happier than I am when I make a representative team, which is a major positive to me. I am just extremely grateful for these amazing people in my life.”
It’s been a busy season, so which has been the match that sticks out most>
“The most memorable game for me has to the one with Maritzburg College. We, as the Northwood squad, put on the performance of a lifetime – we played as one. For me, it was our best performance.”
It was a 1-1 draw against one of the top handful of teams nationally, in which Taine reportedly made in the region of 15 goalsaves – a healthy number of which were apparently quite remarkable.
The Clifton College first team are another squad that stand out for Taine. “Clifton are one of the best and most challenging sides to play against in KZN. Clifton have also proved themselves outside the province. They have come such a long way – the calibre of hockey that they are putting out against the traditionally big schoolboy sides.”
Northwood hockey guru Shaun Baker last year; the Genesis of his chosen career inspired by SA schoolboy hockey coaching legend Mike Bechet – whose achievements are without peer – Bakes was captain of Maritzburg College during Bech’s unprecedented 700-plus matches as the Red Army’s guiding light.
Northwood director of hockey and first team head coach Shaun Baker on Taine Bird: “I am Taine’s biggest fan, I believe that he possesses the right stuff to become a world class goalkeeper. He moves in his kit like a field player and this makes him exceptionally hard to predict.
“His eye is excellent too, which brings his stick saves into play more so than the average goalkeeper. However at times he relies on this a little too much and can let a ball through that he could have gloved – when he gets this right, he will be a real big force to beat in the sticks.
“Taine’s ability to understand a game plan and basic hockey principles makes him an excellent communicator and drill sergeant. He understands the game so well that I even had him coaching the U14C team – a team which lost their coach just after the Easter break. Taine took over and had an excellent season with them, only losing two matches out of nine.
Taine goes the extra mile, he is in matric, offered to coach a team that trains three times a week, the 1st XI trains minimum three times a week with a video session on top of that. He played outfield for the 3rd XI – scoring 6 goals for them, as well as making every single goalkeeper session at 05h45 on Fridays with SA goalkeeper Richard Curtis. He did not miss a single session, all without detriment to his marks (which I kept a close eye on).
“This shows the character of this young man. He is bigger than just being a goalkeeper. He will be sorely missed next season as the value he adds beyond his saves is irreplaceable.”
Wow! Praise indeed.
A quiet confidence… hard-earned by way of diligent attention to detail and consistent, daily effort.
KZN10.com wishes Taine Bird, who has had an outstanding record this season in the crucial penalty-corner-save aspect of goalkeeping, as well as an excellent percentage of shot-saves from field play, everything of the best for next month’s Interprovincial Nationals.
Taine Bird in 20 seconds
Nickname – Birdy
Birdy in 1 word – Perseverance
Favourite breakfast – Pancakes
Favourite food – Pizza
Actor – Ryan Reynolds
Actress – Megan Fox
TV show – Narcos
Holiday destination – Bali or Hawaii
Board game – Jungle Speed
Car – Camaro SS
3 Desert island must-haves – Hockey Astro, personal chef, good WiFi signal
4 Things I can’t live without – Family & loved ones, hockey, friends, food
Favourite quote – Do something today that your future self will thank you for
If I could attend any sports event – Olympic Games
Down time – gym, chilling with friends
On your screensaver – “Prove them wrong”
*****
Taine Bird did-you-knows
* Age 8 he could read music & play piano
* Paige Challis Chandler, a then teacher at Northlands Primary (now at DPHS) gave up her school holiday to introduce Taine to goalkeeping
* His main focus going into high school was cricket – wicketkeeper/batsman
* Made SA U16 age 14, turning 15 on 17 July
* Keeper (age 15) in 2016 KZN Premier League promotion- winning Crusaders 1st team
* First Premier League Game age 16 – possibly the youngest keeper to do so
* 2018 Founders Week (Dale College) played keeper 1st half vs Potch Gym, scored a goal as striker 2nd half, making Northwood Sport 1st team history
* Scored T20 100 for Northwood 5ths vs Westville (Friday social team)
* Still age 17, one of Birdy’s current focus points is SA selection for Africa Youth Games (Algeria-July 2018) then Youth Olympic Games (Argentina-Oct 2018)
* Currently 20-odd hockey training sessions a week
* Trains @ Movement X Cross-fit when possible
* Term 1 2018 – 3 A’s, 3 B’s & a C.
Jono Cook footnote: Passion and energy like this, wish I could buy a piece.
*****
Westville Old Boys treated to 15 hockey matches vs Maritzburg College
FIVE of the 15 hockey matches between hosts Westville and Maritzburg College on Westville Old Boys’ Day, Saturday 9 June 2018 were decided by one goal while two ended in draws. First team – Westville won 2-1; U16A 1-1; and U14A Maritzburg College won 3-0. Overall results: Westville won 4 Maritzburg College won 9 and 2 draws.
The fixtures concluded the Westville season. Maritzburg College won 9 of the matches for a 60% win rate with Westville winning 4. The overall goal tally reflected that Westville scored 14 in the 15 matches with College netting 31… The figures equate to an average 1 goal a game for Westville and 2 per match for College.
Featured image: Westville first hockey team 2018
Photo by Keiya Davies
The Open age group saw Westville 1sts and 3rds the victors with College 2nds and 4ths emerging as the winners in their matches.
The U16 age group reflected that Westville won 2 matches (C’s and F’s), College 3 (B’s, D’s and E’s) and 1 draw (A’s).
The U14 age group saw Maritzburg College win 4 of the 5 matches against Westville. The Red Black and White won A’s B’s, C’s and D’s while the E’s match ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
The first team match sounds like it was an absolute humdinger, in keeping with recent times. As Ann Davidson says, “What a great game to finish the Westville season.”
RESULTS – WESTVILLE vs MARITZBURG COLLEGE
Westville scores first
Open
1sts 2-1
2nd 1-2
3rd 3-1
4th 0-2
U16
16A 1-1
16B 0-4
16C 3-2
16D 0-4
16E 1-5
16F 1-0
U14
14A 0-3
14B 2-3
14C 0-2
14D 0-1
14E 0-0
Master Blaster Matt Lewis the Clifton kingpin
In KZN10 schoolboy hockey circles and further afield Matt Lewis needs no introduction – let’s find out more.
It’s not a piece of cake being captain of one of arguably the top three or four first teams in SA. Then you’re also primary goalshot go-to man from field play, also the G-Force missile man at penalty corner drag-flick time… and also…
So does all this pressure, this responsibility weigh heavily on young shoulders… the answer suggests BMT is not lacking.
Feature image: Matt Lewis goalbound… prepares to enter the strike zone after advancing across the attacking third.
Photo Terry Lewis
“Hi sir, with these responsibilities comes a lot of pressure to perform and those are the conditions I thrive in and play my best. The main goal of being a striker is to score as many goals as possible and there is no better feeling than scoring goals.”
At a young age Matt has already garnered recognition beyond Clifton and KZN’s school boundaries.
On the Astro (outdoor) front Matt’s accolades include four years Clifton first team (2015-18), three years first team at one of KZN and SA’s top clubs Riverside (2016-18), age-group selection (KZN Coastal U16A 2015/16), (KZN Coastal U18A 2018) and SA U16 2015/16.
But, wait! I hear. Yes, you’ll hear about the 2017 outdoor hockey annus horribilis in due course.
On the indoor hockey courts Matt has been able to transfer his outdoor hockey skills with success – it is not a given that a quality exponent on the turf will also be pretty sharp inside a sports hall.
It is worth noting that in terms of months outdoor hockey dominates the hockey year compared to indoor, but the sports code of sideboards and six-a-side has enjoyed a significant resurgence in the last decade or so – primarily with its popularity amongst the youth at the more prominent hockey schools, from primary to high.
So Matt’s indoor representation looks like this – 1st Clifton college 2015-18, Pro Series Indoor (Psi) Panthers (one of the Durban franchises) 2014 to 2016 and SA All Stars U17 selection in 2017.
Doing what he does best: Taking on defenders when hitting the attacking third with the strike zone just a hard yard or three further.
Photo Terry Lewis
Returning to matters Matt and Clifton firsts on the Astro, Matt says: “I have been playing for the last 4 years and have enjoyed every bit of it. I am on 80+ games so far, having made my debut in 2015. In the earlier years I didn’t have the responsibilities that I have in current times . My game has developed a lot since then and the transformation from individual hockey into playing 1-touch hockey became a reality in 2015. I play a completely different game now, than what I did in 2015 and I’m so grateful for the opportunity that I was given then.”
As to what qualities of leadership does Matt aspire to when captaining the Clifton firsts, he says, without hesitation, “Passion, determination and lead by my actions are important to me.”
Matt is content, at this point, with the first team season: “Yes I do think we have had a good season so far.”
Played 20 Won 17 Drew 3.
“We still have – Helpmekaar and St David’s this coming weekend, we then have Michaelhouse on 9 June and Kearsney 13 June.
“We have produced quality results against big hockey schools.”
A clear ambition of Matt and his first team is to stay focused on their remaining school matches in order to complete the season the way they intend to, but what lies ahead in terms of KZN Coastal U18A?
“Winning gold at IPT (U18 Interprovincial Hockey Nationals tournament hosted by Maritzburg College in the first week of July) is another goal on my mind as I feel we as KZN Coastal have a very strong team to do so.”
The genesis of Matt’s hockey, where did what is burgeoning into something special begin?
“I started playing when I was 6 years old at my current hockey club Riverside HC.
“Michael Baker was my first coach who made a special difference. Having missed out on making the U12A KZN Coastal team, he gave me a call up to the U13C team – we went on to win gold at the IPT and it changed me as a player completely.”
Another gamechanger for matters hockey al la Matt Lewis was Calvin “Chicken” Price: He was my coach when I made my debut for Clifton in grade 9 and backed me all the way, he mentored me and gave me the opportunity I am ever so grateful for.
As to the here and now? “Keegan Pearce. He is my current (head) coach for Clifton College (and the sports code’s director) and has coached me for the last 3 years. He has changed my game to a new level and I can’t thank him enough for it – he is passionate and pushes me to do my best. He knows me the best and expects a lot from me, which pushes me to be a better player.”
One Mark Hopkins is another gamebreaker in the development of Matt Lewis Hockey: “Mr Hopkins is the current SA men’s coach and my club hockey coach, he knows the game like no other – has so much knowledge… He has coached me at a level, and has shown me what it takes to compete at the highest level and I am grateful to learn that at such a young age.”
OK okay Matt, but coaches aren’t the be-all and end-all… There is the not-so small matter of real life outside the white lines of stick and ball.
“As some people know I was out with a knee injury and had to have surgery.”
At this juncture, dear reader, please refer to paragraph 7 … and annus horribilis…
“My friends did not stop believing in me and after a long road to recovery I am back and feeling better than ever. Now to the (most) important people, I cannot thank my parents, brother and sister enough for the support that I received during this tough time. They did everything they could for me during the early parts of my injury and have continued that support to this day.”
Defenders are you ready?
In a KZN10 schoolboy hockey career so illustrious already, what to date – in Matt’s unerring eye – has been the most memorable Clifton match… and why…
With the instantaneous Matt Lewis reflex action that turns a goalshot rebound into a Matt Lewis goal, here’s the answer: “Northwood game – it was nice to get a win against them as a lot of the players in their team are my mates. It is also a Durban North derby and the competitive levels are high.”
OK, there’s the obvious attraction of crossing hockey swords with a neighbour, but what about a KZN10 team a little further afield? Once again the unequivocal response – “Maritzburg College – they are a very good team.”
I was privileged to watch the 1-1 draw in what was a Battle Royale on the Red Army’s fortress Pape’s Astro. It was a no-holds-barred Last Man Standing affair played with a fierce, unflinching will and no little skill in which Clifton showed tremendous team grit to force a stalemate in a match that coach Pearce said was not the usual quality Clifton performance.
Says Matt: “College have produced quality results for years and have been regarded as the best team in the country a lot of those years.”
With star striker quality of the Matt Lewis calibre hitting peak, don’t be surprised if the IPT Nationals gold medal goes back to Durban early next month.
“Thank you, sir.”
Here’s Matt Lewis in 20 seconds
Favourite food……. biltong
Actor…… Will Smith
Actress……. Margot Robbie
TV show……. Peaky Blinders
Holiday destination……. Cape Town or Kruger
Board game…… don’t have one
Car……. Jaguar F-Type
Nickname……. Lewy
So, Lewy in one word……. passionate
Favourite breakfast……. bacon and eggs
3 desert island must-haves……. cellphone, TV and some mates
4 things I can’t live without…….. friends , hockey, biltong and the beach
Favourite quote…….. “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today” – H. Jackson Brown jnr
If I could attend any sports event…….. Olympic Games
Down time……. relaxing with friends and playing PlayStation
———
Matt Lewis, clearly much more than just a hockey player.