TOP STORY
Tough KZN Coastal T20 quarter-finals in store at Kearsney tomorrow
The KZN Coastal section playoffs in the CSA Schools T20 Challenge take place at Kearsney College this Thursday and Friday (30 and 31 January).
The first-round draw has certainly been kinder (on paper) to two of the six KZN10.com focus schools in the greater Durban region than it has been on the other 4.
Thursday morning’s 9am quarter-final matches see Glenwood tackle Westville and Clifton College take on DHS.
Tracey van den Aardweg feature image: All-rounder Cade Carmichael will be leading Kearsney College first XI in the playoffs tomorrow.
Pivotal Talent wins matches. Ask Joel Stransky & PT partner Will Hardie. Check out the Pivotal Talent SubjectChoice & CareerGuide solutions at www.careerguidesolution.co.za
The draw for Thursday afternoon’s 1pm quarter-finals reflects Northwood vs Kloof and Kearsney College up against Thomas More College.
A further draw will take place after Thursday afternoon’s quarter-finals are complete, with the names of the winners going into the hat to determine who plays who in Friday’s 9am semi-finals.
The semi-final winners will meet in the KZN Coastal T20 final at 1pm Friday.
Dads & Lads, Super Sixes stem from clear, comfortable vision. Get a world-class eye consult from the H&G specialists Kearsney mom Wendy Gray and St Charles dad SF van den Berg. www.hilliarandgray.co.za
The Coastal champions will take on the KZN Inland champs in the Dolphins franchise final at the PMB Oval. The final is scheduled for 27 February.
This may change if sides like Hilton College, who are scheduled to play in the annual Independent Schools Cricket Festival hosted by St Albans College in Pretoria from 26 February to 1 March, qualify for the Dolphins final.
The winners of the Dolphins final qualify to compete for the national title against the other franchise winners.
Last year, first-time Dolphins franchise winners St Charles College were runners-up at the nationals after losing to St Stithians College in the final at Tuks.
To experience is everything. Give Fordoun CEO and Michaelhouse Old Boy Richard Bates a call.
Inland winners The Saints beat Coastal winners Westville in the 2019 Dolphins franchise final last year.
To my knowledge, the Dolphins champions have never won the national final, although I think Maritzburg College – and certainly Hilton College (at least twice) – have been finalists in the past.
Maritzburg College Old Boy and distinguished sportsman Arthur Wormington is your expert when it comes to UK property investments. “We align all the movables to create the perfect UK property investment.” Contact the London-based Arthur at arthur@megaprop.co.uk
KZN Coastal T20 quarter-final playoffs
9am start on Thursday
Glenwood vs Westville
Clifton vs DHS
*****
1pm start on Thursday
Northwood vs Kloof
Kearsney vs Thomas More
A draw will then take place to determine the 9am Friday semi-final matches.
The semi-final winners will meet in Friday’s 1pm final.
Clear communication lines can make it or break it in the hustle and bustle of life. https://cellc.co.za/ https://www.cellc.co.za/ The Power is in Your Hands.
KZN Inland T20 semi-finals and final at Hilton today
The stage is set for thrilling T20 cricket contests this morning from 9am and early afternoon from 1pm when the CSA KZN Inland Schools T20 Challenge semi-finals and final play out at Hilton College.
Periodic updates throughout the matches can be found on the @KZN10com Facebook page, so just “like” the page and you will get the updates in your Facebook notifications.
At 9am Maritzburg College first XI face Michaelhouse first XI in semi-final 1 on the Jack Hart-Davis Oval with the other semi-final featuring this year’s favourites Hilton College first XI and defending champs St Charles College first XI on Weightman-Smith also at 9am.
The final is set for 1pm on Hart-Davis.
Pivotal Talent’s Online SubjectChoice (Grade 9s) and CareerGuide (Grade 10s, 11s and 12s) solutions replaces uncertainty with accuracy in directing your children to make full use of their potential. Check out www.careerguidesolution.co.za
The quarter-finals yesterday with the seeds playing the qualifiers were lopsided affairs but afforded a few players the opportunity to get in some decent time in the middle ahead of today’s showdowns.
The KZN Inland T20 winners will meet the KZN Coastal winners in the Dolphins franchise final late February at the PMB Oval.
QUARTER-FINALS MATCH STATS IN BRIEF
Michaelhouse 248/4 in 20
Captain Jared Meiring 105 (56b 11×4 5×6)
Callum Porrill 52 (32b 4×4 1×6)
Vice-captain Roelof van der Berg 36 (18b 1×4 1×6)
Luke Gammie 27* (10b 2×4 1×6)
G Kundai 2-43
St Dominics 74/5 in 20
G Tatum 42* 5×4 75b
Ayanda Cele 2-12
Campbell Davies-Webb 2-8
O Ntshona 1-19
Michaelhouse won by 174 runs
Take a 5-star break from life in the fast lane. Contact Fordoun CEO and former Michaelhouse rugby star Richard Bates for your well-earned break. https://www.fordoun.com/
Treverton 83/9 in 20 overs
Matthew Haberl 24
Matt Boast 3-5
Luc Benkenstein 3-7
Ethan Bain 2-17
Colby Dyer 1-13
Hilton 87/0 after 7.4 overs
Chris Pistorius 35* (18b 3×4)
Slade van Staden 57* (28b 12×4)
Hilton won by 10 wickets
A sticky wicket makes for messy backyard cricket. Take action before it’s too late. www.midlandssepticservices.co.za
St Charles 217/6 in 20 overs
Hayden Raw run out 83 (44b 7×4 3×6)
Taygen Mollentze run out 59 (36b 4×4 2×6)
Chaise Botha 35 (21b 4×4)
Jason Muirhead 26 (15b 2×4)
Sbonelo Nkosi 1 wicket for 26 runs
Mzwandile Ndlela 1-43 and 1 run out
Nathi Phakathi 1-10 and 1 run out
Pongola Hub 63 all out in 13.3 overs
Jason Muirhead 3 wickets for 2 runs
Nathan Lunderstedt 2-16
A wicket apiece for Keegan Crawford, Tim Login and Jens Lutge
2 run outs (Steven Scott involved in one)
St Charles College won by 154 runs
When the T20 match is tight and every run counts, you can count of Clox Scoreboards of KZN. http://clox.co.za/
Alex 33 all out in 13.2 overs
Rob Akerman 5-7 in 3 overs
Kent Goedeke and Mark Lathwaite a wicket apiece
Run outs by Michael King, Ross Klusener and Kent Goedeke
Maritzburg College 34/0 after 3.3 overs
(Daniel Bruyns and Stefan Delport)
Maritzburg College won by 10 wickets
It is imperative for coaches to know what works for you. Get in the driving seat with the tried and tested. Contact Trish right now at info@trishsutton.co.za
Northerns win knife-edge thriller against KZN Inland
Jono Cook – at PMB Oval – Monday’s Day I of Coca-Cola Khaya Majola Week brought a competitive match between host province KZN Inland and Northerns.
In this time cricket match format, the team winning the toss and asking the opposition to bat give their opponents a maximum 75 overs at the crease. In turn, the winning-the-toss team – if they decide to take first strike – get 45 overs to bat in the maximum 120 overs in the day.
Martin Ashworth feature image: KZN Inland captain Michael Booth made contributions with bat and ball.
By the same token, the team winning the toss and opting to bat first is afforded 65 overs at the crease and in reply the opposition is permitted 55 overs of the day’s maximum 120, so it’s a weighty decision for the successful skipper.
Should there be overs left out of the maximum 120 in the day, the side that batted first can set a second-innings target. In turn, if the bowling team in the second innings of the match get 5 wickets, the batting side’s second innings is over.
Attention to detail separates the best from the rest. Talk to the experts. http://www.hilliarandgray.co.za/contact/
The team batting last need to chase down the target while the bowling side need to get 5 wickets before the target is reached in order to win the match on the double innings.
Back to the match itself: After putting Inland in to bat, Northerns were able to break promising partnerships through a combination of steady bowling and poor shot selection by the locals, who were all out for 151 in 48.4 overs.
The under-utilisation of Inland’s allotted 75 overs meant that Northerns inherited the balance of 26.2 overs that would have made up the 75.
Concentration and application at the crease had proved to be Inland’s undoing. A total of 200 might well have been enough to win this keenly-fought contest.
In cricket, as in life, timing is everything. https://www.cellc.co.za/
Northerns and SA U19 World Cup 2020 quick bowler Merrick Brett, who took 4 wickets for 19 runs off 7.4 overs, was comfortably the pick of the bunch – Brett’s number of permitted overs is limited as he has a heavy workload ahead of him in the upcoming ICC U19 World Cup warm-up matches and the impending tournament itself.
Northerns’ Zeeshan Ismail picked up 2 wickets while Prince Trotter, Om Thakkar and Jordan Hermann took a wicket apiece, with Thakkar also effecting a run out.
Inland middle-order batters Nick Hatton (29 off 44 with 3 fours), Andile Simelane (a hard-hitting 26 off 24 5×4) and Michael Booth (30 off 43 4×4) got starts.
In response, a match-winning innings of 115 off 213 balls (14 fours) by Northerns opener Jordan Hermann was the mainstay of the successful Pretoria lads’ title chase.
Hermann was the last man out, this after the Northerns had already passed the Inland total of 151 with a wicket in hand.
When the clox ticking and every over counts, you can count of Clox Scoreboards of KZN. http://clox.co.za/
A measure of opener Hermann’s achievement was that the second-highest Northerns individual total was scored by number 9 Daniel van der Merwe, who contributed towards an invaluable 8th-wicket partnership of 36, having come to the crease with Northerns on a losing 78 for 7, still needing 74 to win with a threadbare three wickets in hand.
Then it was number 10 Om Thakkar’s turn to prop up one end in scoring 6 from 21 balls in adding 18 for the 9th wicket to assist Hermann in bringing Northerns 20 runs closer to victory.
Finally, It was Northerns number 11 Prince Trotter (an eventual 5 not out off 26 balls) who first helped Hermann go past the winning target before the pair batted on, until opening batter Herman was last man out for a superb 115 and the final Northerns total read 174 from 62 overs.
KZN Inland opening bowler Michael Booth worked hard for his 3/29 from 15 overs, as did seamer Sanele Mbatha (3/19 from 8) and left-arm spinner Mike Frost (3/57 off 16) while Andile Simelane took 1 for 9 from 5 overs.
Inland were on 8/1 in their second innings when the match closed, giving Northerns victory on the first innings.
During an action-packed cricket week, there’s no better place to unwind than Fordoun. https://www.fordoun.com/
This was certainly a match where knife-edge decisions played a significant role.
SCORES IN BRIEF
KZN Inland 1st innings 151 in 48.4 overs (Michael Booth 30, Nick Hatton 29, Andile Simelane 26; Merrick Brett 4/19)
Northerns 1st innings 174 in 62 overs (Jordan Hermann 115; Sanele Mbatha 3/19, Booth 3/29, Mike Frost 3/57)
KZN Inland 2nd innings 8/1
Northerns won on the 1st innings
Midlands Septic Services takes the pain out of unpleasant tasks. www.midlandssepticservices.co.za
International stage for Maritzburg College’s Mondli Khumalo
Maritzburg College first XI fast bowler Mondli Khumalo has been selected in the SA U19 World Cup cricket team for the ICC U19 World cup to be held in SA early next year.
The team was announced today.
Mondli hails from Umlazi and went to Glenwood Prep before earning a Sunfoil bursary to the home of Goldstones and the Red Black and White.
DESDESIGNSDOT feature foto: Mondli Khumalo was at his electric best on the Roy Gaythorne Oval at Michaelhouse towards the end of last year. Mondli will be looking for the same at the 2019 Coca-Cola Khaya Majola Week hosted by the Balgowan school.
It is a triumph for the Umlazi Express who has experienced considerable disappointment this year as well as last year, but more about that in an upcoming feature.
Mondli, who has been capped for SA U19 before (2018), as well as SA Schools (2017) is the lone KZN player in the national side.
SA U19 and SA Schools-capped Glenwood fast bowler Lifa Ntanzi would surely have been a strong consideration (arguably a certainty) for the World Cup had a back injury not side-lined him for 6 months.
Cricket SA announced in a press release today that King Edward VII School’s Bryce Parsons will captain the SA side for the 2020 ICC U19 World Cup which is to be held in SA early next year.
SA U19 cricket captain the batting all-rounder Bryce Parsons of King Edward VII School (KES). Photo SA Cricket Mag
When first appointed captain of SA U19 for the Pakistan limited-over series in KZN during June\July this year, Parsons told SA Cricket Mag: “Most players love the extra challenges in the game, and I am no different.
“I just want to take this challenge of captaincy in my stride and lead from the front with the players,” he added.
‘If you are doing well as a captain, the whole team will have confidence. I just have to focus on doing what I do best and then try and lead the team.”
Batsman Alert! Preserve your body’s integrity against unfeeling fast bowlers with clear and comfortable vision. http://www.hilliarandgray.co.za/
SA Cricket Mag says today:
The vice-captain is Khanya Cotani of North West. The team also includes 2018 St Andrews School Bloemfontein kingpin all-rounder and fast bowler Gerald Coetzee of the Free State, a member of the SA U19 team that played in the last ICC U19 World Cup tournament in New Zealand in 2018 and who has already played franchise cricket for the Knights as well as for the Jozi Stars in the MSL.
The squad will fine-tune its preparation during a home series against world champions India at the end of the year and in a quadrangular series that follows against India, New Zealand and Zimbabwe.
“Congratulations to all the players who have been selected as well as the management and support staff,’ commented CSA acting chief executive Dr Jacques Faul.”
At the end of a tough cricket tournament, what better way to relax. https://fordoun.com/
“I am sure head coach Lawrence Mahatlane, his fellow selectors and our talent scouts around the country have left no stone unturned in identifying our best players in this age group and that the work done at the various training camps will be well rewarded.
“I wish our players everything of the best for a successful tournament and know that they will make us proud.
“I would also like to acknowledge the work done by tournament director Sivuyile Mqingwana as well as by the local organising committees at our four hosting venues.’
“South Africa U19 head coach Mahatlane said: “It was a tough process selecting this squad. We went through quite a lot of players, giving quite a few players an opportunity and we are very excited with the squad we selected.
A sticky wicket makes for messy backyard cricket. Take action before it’s too late. www.midlandssepticservices.co.za
“There is a lot of flexibility with some special talent around, I am personally excited about this group and I am sure they will make the nation proud.
‘Bryce is a natural leader. The tone that he has set and the growth we have seen over the last couple of months, it was very natural for us to back him as a leader.
“He captained the side throughout the winter and we have seen a lot of growth in him, not only tactically, but also as a person. Hopefully, he will keep doing the country proud.”
Hill Premium Quality Cricket Balls were developed and perfected by Durban-based Maritzburg College 2006 cricketer Stuart Hill when he saw the need for high-quality yet affordable 4-piece and 2-piece cricket balls in the SA market. Check them out. http://hillcricketballs.co.za/product/hill-cricket-ball/
Squad: Bryce Parsons (Central Gauteng, capt), Khanya Cotani (North West, vice-capt), Luke Beaufort (Eastern Province), Jonathan Bird (Western Province), Merrick Brett (Northerns), Achille Cloete (Boland), Gerald Coetzee (Free State), Tyrese Karelse (South Western Districts), Mondli Khumalo (KwaZulu-Natal), Jack Lees (Central Gauteng), Andrew Louw (Northern Cape), Levert Manje (Central Gauteng), Odirile Modimokoane (North West), Pheko Moletsane (Free State), Tiaan van Vuuren (Eastern Province).
When it comes to planning your next school sports tour look no further than former Hilton College first XI captain Craig Goodenough who’s been there, seen the movie and bought the T-shirt factory. https://www.bundubashers.co.za/
Maritzburg College’s ace penalty kick shot-stopper Ollie Zondi
In the SA Combined Schools U19 semi-final penalty shootout against Cape North A at Bedfordview the KZN A goalkeeper Thandolwethu “Ollie” Zondi saved 3 spot-kicks for his province to win 3-2 on penalties.
In the KZN A vs KZN B final, at 4-4 in the penalty shootout, Ollie Zondi saved KZN B’s 5th penalty before bouncing back up to score the winning penalty himself! For KZN A to win the SA Combined Schools soccer title 5-4 on penalties.
Feature image: Ollie Zondi before his goalkeeping heroics in the heart-stopping penalty shoot on Goldstones when Maritzburg College regained the Raw Cup from DHS.
That eye-catching penalty-stopping ability, particularly in a penalty shootout, the most critical stage of a match which has gone that route, with the outcome resting on the (goal)line (if you’ll pardon the pun), plus Ollie’s goalkeeping prowess and imperious “ownership” of “his” piece of real estate, the big box, in regulation play, were key factors in the selectors’ decision to pick Ollie for the SA Combined Schools U19 team as well as naming him Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
Ollie Zondi and Maritzburg College goalkeeper coach Cannigia Garaba.
‘Whilst others dream of scoring goals, I am that different guy, who dreams of saving them’
Ollie, the Maritzburg College first soccer team goalkeeper was also superb in the penalty shootouts that clinched the PMB High Schools Football Association second term MTN League final – and he did it again on Goldstones for the Red, Black and White to take the Raw Cup, the oldest KZN inter-school sports trophy, away from arch-rivals and Cowie Cup winners DHS, arguably the best first team outfit in the province.
So, he’s “not too shabby” hey Nige…?! So, Maritzburg College director of soccer and #RedBlackWhite first team head coach Daniel Haswell, what’s your assessment of Ollie the goalkeeper?
Get your eyesight assessed by the best. Wendy Gray, SF van den Berg and Owen Hilliar at your service, so call 033 342 9673 or go to http://www.hilliarandgray.co.za/contact/
“My opinion of Ollie the goalkeeper? That’s easy, Jono. A lot of players say they want to play professionally and so on but what sets Ollie apart is that he focused first on training and improving. I’ve never seen a goalkeeper so dedicated to training, he trains like an absolute beast!
“And, Jono, we never made it easy for him; in fact we purposely make it tough because that is the way to test the boys – to see if they have what it takes. Their attitude to training is so important.
“Here I must credit Maritzburg College specialist goalkeeper coach Caniggia Garaba for his training regimen. Sometimes I would look at our GK’s diving at practice on the unforgiving AB Jackson field and shake my head. I got the goalkeepers gym mats and said, ‘Please guys, use these to land on!’.
Ollie Zondi after being named SA Combined Schools Goalkeeper of the Tournament in Bedfordview.
“An important factor is that Ollie had Luyanda Mawela, also a fine Maritzburg College goalkeeper, constantly pushing him to perform.
“We called Ollie and Luyanda the ‘Goalkeepers’ Union’ because they always supported each other, whichever one was playing, and they would back each other when we [the first team squad and coaching staff] would banter them with comments like, ‘Oh, the goalkeepers are training in the shade again’ or hiding when we were doing conditioning testing.
“The truth of the matter is that no-one trained harder than Ollie – and his performances as well as his impressive physique are proof of that.
Worked yourself to a standstill? There’s no better place to rest and recuperate. Use Fordoun as your base to explore the delights of the KZN midlands. Phone 033 266 6217 or check out https://www.fordoun.com/
“Jono, I also want to add that Ollie saved an incredible 17 out of 50 penalties. It is an incredible penalty-save percentage. If a school first team’s goalkeeper – given the format of many of the competitions we play in at this level – is stopping 1 out of every 3 penalties taken, this gives that team a massive advantage.
“As mentioned, penalty shootouts are an important part of football – especially at schools level with all our cup competitions. They cannot simply be regarded as a ‘lottery’ or ‘pure luck’.
“So we looked at how we could get an advantage out of them. Ollie and (fellow keeper) Luyanda Mawela worked hard at agility and the mental aspect of it and also watching other teams, to see where and how they preferred to take penalties.”
Another big trophy moment for the Maritzburg College first team this year.
Ok coach Dan, you’ve certainly established Ollie’s credentials as a goalkeeper and a person, so let’s hear Ollie’s story up close and personal.
“Hi Ollie, do you feel this Player of the Tournament award is recognition for the hard work you have put into your goalkeeping this year?”
“Yes, sir. I feel that a lot of hard work at training, on and off the field, plus a lot of help from my coaches and teammates has led me to winning this award.”
“Ollie, so what is it about football that attracted you to the game?
The attraction lies in the expertise, so get with the tried and tested. So contact Trish right now at 060 819 09048
“Sir, I grew up in a family that always loved the sport. The 2010 FIFA World Cup being hosted in South Africa made me realise how big the sport of football was, and I instantly wanted to be part of it. How people from across the world came together to watch the World Cup really attracted me.”
And like the sure-footed shot-stopper he is, Ollie’s response was immediate when asked who have had the biggest influence on his soccer career so far.
“Mr Justin Tocknell was my first-ever coach; he introduced me to goalkeeping and also built my foundation in terms of establishing and setting personal goals. Mr Mba Mlotshwa, a Pelham Senior Primary School teacher and soccer coach, also made a big impression on me.
Ollie Zondi is honoured by his team-mates on earning his 50th first team appearance..
“At high school Mr Dan Haswell, our Maritzburg College first team head coach, trusted in me and my talent – even after me first playing rugby!
“Mr Haswell took me in and personally got me a goalkeeper coach, Mr Caniggia Garaba, who really started from basics and helped me up my game. Mr Haswell exposed me to a soccer-friendly environment and helped me understand many elements of the game.
“Putting all these parts together has enabled me to play for the Maritzburg College first team for 2 years and to play in 60 first team games. This has taught me that the whole team has put their trust in me to be their last man, so I should also trust each of them in their particular roles.”
Trusting who you get feedback from is key to your onward growth. https://pivotaltalent.co.za/
Ollie is clear as to what his personal goals in football are, both in the short- and long-term
“My goal is to see myself playing for clubs that are recognised on a national level, to play for teams I grew up watching and supporting, and also to move on to represent my country if possible.”
Ollie, the Maritzburg College first team season this year, what have been the highlights and your disappointments?
“The first team this year was not only a team but a brotherhood. The respect and support the boys gave one another was simply outstanding, so it’s no coincidence that we won 3 trophies. On a personal level, I feel good that I kept 12 clean sheets and saved 17 penalties.
“A major disappointment was not being able to earn my 50th cap for the first team on Maritzburg College Reunion Day, due to unforeseen circumstances.”
Maritzburg College goalkeeper Ollie Zondi uses his big boot to find his team-mates upfield.
Ollie is also chuffed that Maritzburg College has started awarding soccer scholarships. “This will definitely enhance the quality of football at the school.”
After attending Pelham Senior Primary School, Ollie was again sure-footed in taking the next step.
“I chose Maritzburg College due to me seeing how the boys of the school carried themselves. And the school’s name. The great academics and sports were also very influential in my decision.
“Maritzburg College as a school, I would say, is the best in the world. As I said, the academia is one of the best in the country and the sport produces some of our country’s greatest sportsmen.
At penalty shootout time you need the best scoreboards in the business.KZN’s Clox Scoreboards will never let you down. http://clox.co.za/
So Ollie, what has football and goalkeeping taught you about yourself and about life?
“Football as a sport showed me that in order to achieve a certain goal, you need to put in loads of work, be patient, be committed and you also need the help of others to achieve it.
“Goalkeeping showed me that people trust you, and sometimes more than you trust yourself! Your team-mates and coaching staff believe in you, put their beliefs in you, so you need to believe in yourself, too, and also believe in them.”
Ollie’s favourite player is Atletico Madrid and Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
“For me, Jan Oblak is the best goalkeeper in the world, yet at the same time he is so humble. He is so down-to-earth, but when it’s game time he lets his talent do the talking. His ability in goals really amazes me.
“Jan Oblak is from a country like mine, that doesn’t have the greatest soccer side compared to the other great footballing countries, but he didn’t let that get in the way of him playing for one of the great teams in Spain and the world.”
London-based Arthur Wormington played soccer for Natal U13. Now UK property investment advice is his game. ‘We align all the movables to create the perfect UK property investment.’ Arthur’s just an email away. arthur@megaprop.co.uk
To see Ollie Zondi on a soccer pitch, it always struck me that it was akin to watching a great performer on stage. By his engaging persona and sheer presence, Ollie “owns” his team’s penalty area, making it crystal clear to opposition strikers that he’s the boss-man and they’d better be very aware of the statement he’s making.
So I should have known the answer as to what would he like to do or be outside of football!
“I would like to be in the entertainment industry. To be a presenter or an actor. I really love this industry.”
I think we’ve established by now that goalkeeping is Ollie’s preferred position on a soccer pitch.
“I love goalkeeping because whilst others dream of scoring goals, I am that different guy, who dreams of saving them. I feel that a keeper not only keeps his team from conceding a lot of goals, but also keeps his team’s hopes up. If your team trusts you in goals, that’s half of their worries gone and allows them to focus more on scoring.”
Septic tank & sludge pit drainage problems? Some things you don’t want to try on your own. That’s why DHS Old Boy and St Charles College parent John Smithers is here. johnsmithers@vodamail.com
So how much time does Ollie put in to improving his football?
“I work whenever I get time to. Most of the time it’s at least 4 times a week. Soccer is the only sport I participate in. In the off-season I will rest more and work at most twice a week.”
Ollie, is there anything else you’d like to add?
“I really would like to add my appreciation and gratitude to my God Almighty, who I believe is at the centre of everything in my life and football. “
Ollie, thank you so much for your patience and time, it’s been an absolute pleasure getting to know you.
“Thank you too sir for showing such an interest in me and coming to watch our games when you could.”
Great goalkeepers give their team-mates security and peace of mind, so when the going gets tough, get your defensive set-up sorted with the experts. https://www.titantech.co.za/
Ok, let’s a last word from Ollie Zondi’s coach, Dan Haswell: – So Dan, does the Ollie Zondi persona change into something else off the field?
“Definitely not, Jono. Off the field, Ollie is an absolute gem as well. He is a great team unifier with the way he talks, and he is always leading the team in songs before and after games.
“Ollie’s got a great future ahead of him, either as a goalkeeper or whatever he chooses to do, because he is a fine young man with a great heart – and the type of boy that we are proud of at Maritzburg College.
Own your own communication lines and get a great deal with Cell C today. https://www.cellc.co.za/
The school rankings – a prominent KZN10 coach says…
A well-known coach at a top-end KZN10 school who also has experience overseas, has this to say about the controversial school sport rankings:
“Hi Jono, the ranking system has created an environment in SA school sport that prioritises winning over development, understanding of the game and sportsmanship.
“I have seen coaches at top sports schools in SA actively promoting cheating on subtle levels; as well as refs and umpires manipulating their favoured team’s winning opportunities… and all to be ranked higher.
Clear comfortable vision is something you owe yourself and your family. Hilliar & Gray are the experts. Make the call 033 342 9673
“I called a school sports ranking organisation and asked them to explain how they work it out – and it blew my mind.
“It’s based on the previous year’s ranking position for starters! Hogwash!
“Certain coaches in various sports codes at schools in SA will rely on a handful of boys to get the WIN instead of to create a learning environment – in other words, to use winning, losing and the highs and lows to help nurture our young talent to be bigger and better human beings.
Pivotal Talent SubjectChoice scientifically guides learners to select the most suitable subjects, while CareerGuide matches learners to the most suitable career fields. Go to https://pivotaltalent.co.za/
“I could go on and on about how the performance of a team and the successes of the processes and culture put in place far outweigh a coach or a team, a boy, a parent or Old Boy walking around saying, ‘We won!’.
“The real question is not, did you win, it’s did you play well?
“The ranking system is fundamentally damaging to coaching, and the players!”
Success is built on communication. https://cellc.co.za/
SCHOOL SPORTS RANKINGS – A GOOD OR BAD THING? What’s your perception?
Ever since their introduction by school sport websites, school sports rankings, especially rugby and cricket but across the board now, have drawn massive interest. And massive criticism.
One schoolboy rugby fan told me:
“Rankings should have no place in the schoolboy game, it’s tantamount to child abuse as it puts huge pressure on the boys, albeit subconsciously one might hope, by their coaches to perform.
TRUE CLASS IS RARE: Take a five-star break from life in the fast lane. Contact Fordoun CEO and former Michaelhouse and London Irish rugby star Richard Bates to discuss your well-earned break. https://www.fordoun.com/
“There is also pressure heaped on the players by their schoolmates, parents and Old Boys, whether it is chiding them for slipping in the rankings or what is a dangerous case of over-inflating fragile teenage egos by lauding them if their team (and, by extension, the boy’s prowess) is placed high on the rankings.
“What is also very very sad is that so many of my rugger mates take these rankings as Gospel truth, yet it’s surely obvious to these guys, who have a great depth of understanding of the sport as well as a passionate love of schoolboy rugger, especially our great KZN rugger schools, that by their very nature, these so-called rankings are flawed from the word go.
“Why do I say this? It’s very simple. You can’t measure teams unless they all play each other home and away in the same year.
WHERE RESULTS ARE THE BEST MEASURE: Septic tank & sludge pit drainage problems? Why let the conditions drain you and your precious time and money? Talk to your friendly local expert, DHS Old Boy & St Charles dad John Smithers, at 082 337 2049
“On top of that, some schools play dozens of matches a year, many of them against weak opposition, which guarantees easy ranking points, while other school first teams play far less matches but against much stronger opposition.
“It’s a bloody farce, yet schools do this on purpose as they use these rankings as massive marketing tools in order to attract the cream of the primary schools’ talent, and with the added carrot of sports scholarships and sports bursaries.
“The sports scholarships and bursaries is another animal that is wrecking the natural balance in our schools.
“Unscrupulous parents even play one school against another in bidding wars so they can squeeze out the biggest amount of tin – and yet again it’s a case of using unsuspecting kids as financial tools for reasons that having nothing to do with the kids’ welfare in the long run.
DRIVING TEST SUCCESS: Get in the front seat with the best. Contact Trish right now at info@trishsutton.co.za or on 060 819 0948
“Jono I could go on and on, so one last word from me: These are teenage boys – and I see it’s now rapidly infecting our talented young girls – these boys and girls might have precocious talent but; emotionally their talent doesn’t yet match their fragile self-esteem and self-confidence.
“Yet before you know it these kids are blown up as superstars – and the big crowds in the thousands that come to watch schoolboy rugby in particular, just inflate the supposition that they are going to earn millions as soon as they enter senior sport, but the reality is that that most of them will be playing in front of a man and his dog after school.”
“And what happens? They give up playing and join the varsity pub crowd.
“Jono, I’ve said enough for the moment, and your asking my opinion has put me in a bad mood before my day has even started!
“Seriously, Jono, I’m glad you asked because you’ve given me a platform to vent my frustrations as a father, an Old Boy and a passionate schoolboy sports lover.
“Rankings are a cancer, but how does one get rid of them before they do even more damage?”
Pivotal Talent Subject Choice and Career Guide has no equal. Match your game plan with the most suitable school subjects and career fields. Go to https://pivotaltalent.co.za/
I asked another passionate schoolboy sports lover, who is a high school parent, and probably the most balanced bloke I know, what his thoughts were.
He was in a rush but his carefully considered opinion is one that I respect, and that goes for just about anything and everything.
“Jono, to be very honest I like the ranking system. I could elaborate further when I have some time.”
So, two opposing views.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS TOPIC?
I’d love to know.
Where evaluation is 100% accurate. You and yours deserve 20/20 vision. Get yours checked by Wendy and Team H&G http://www.hilliarandgray.co.za/contact/
Maritzburg College rugby team and more for 8pm SA time kick-off
The Maritzburg College first XV are set to take on Eltham College at 8pm (SA time) in the first match of their tour to England and Wales.
This tour update is brought to you by official tour operators, the Howick-based Bundu Bashers Travel.
desdot photography feature image of (from left) Kaide Morsink, head coach Cameron Fraser,Kent Goedeke and Payton Elliot putting the final touches together in the tour party’s last training session on Goldstones before flying out on Saturday evening.
Here’s what head coach Cameron Fraser told KZN10.com earlier today.
“The flight was tiring, a bit strenuous, we arrived in England just after 2pm yesterday and proceeded to Eltham College where the boys were hosted out, and we had a training session this morning.
“Their side was unbeaten last year and obviously their side today has a lot of juniors, like us; they played a match on Saturday, their third of the English season.
“Our players are in a transition phase, they have been playing cricket and water polo, we have had to make do and had two training sessions per week.
“The weather here has been a bit drizzly, but it’s dried up now, so just overcast and cool.
“The boys have been in good spirits, and started playing touch rugby virtually the moment we arrived, apart from a few having a touch of gastro, while our blindside flank Brannon Webster has been feeling nauseous and won’t be in the starting XV; Chris van Heerden takes his place.
Maritzburg College hooker Junior Mndaweni at last Wednesday’s final training session on Goldstones before departure. Photo desdot photography
“The boys are looking forward to playing in front of what we believe will be quite a large contingent of Old Boys, and it’s an amazing opportunity for them to show what Maritzburg College rugby is all about on the international stage.
“We have requested that rolling subs be allowed, so we will be able to call on the entire number of our tour players if needs be – that’s why we have 10 on the bench.”
MARITZBURG COLLEGE STARTING XV vs ELTHAM COLLEGE
It’s never just about yourself. https://www.cellc.co.za/
Maritzburg College’s Oppenheimer Michaelmas Cricket Week fixtures
It is a significant milestone as the Oppenheimer Michaelmas Cricket Week, so splendidly hosted as always by Maritzburg College, celebrates its 60th birthday from September 21 to 24 during this year’s festival of all that is great in South African schools cricket.
So many participating first XI schoolboy cricketers, coaches and managers have mentioned that these four special days are the highlight of their cricket year.
And it is to the camaraderie of this gathering of schoolboy cricketers, coaches, managers, umpires and spectators that long-time sponsor Jonathan Oppenheimer always refers in his annual message.
DAY 1 AND DAY 2 FIXTURES
The fixtures on Days 1 and 2 of this year’s Oppenheimer Michaelmas Cricket Week feature a host of enticing match-ups for schoolboy cricket lovers to get their teeth into.
One of the central precepts in making Michaelmas such a kaleidoscope of memories is the team of people who run the festival, headed by Maritzburg College deputy headmaster, co-curricular, Brandon Swart and co-curricular administrator Stacey Emerson.
The festival runs like clockwork – or as close as you can get, given the vagaries of the weather and suchlike.
Camaraderie aside, the standard gets higher and higher every year and the quality of the contests gets tougher and tougher, but while results are important there is one longer-lasting durable that never changes – the spirit that is so palpably evident in the exchanges between the boys, coaches, managers, umpires and unfailingly diligent festival support staff.
DAY 3 AND DAY 4 FIXTURES
The sets of fixtures on Days 3 and 4 of the 60th annual Oppenheimer Michaelmas Cricket Week provide yet more attractive contests for the schoolboy cricket-loving public to enjoy.
It is also a unique cricket event in that all 10 of the KwaZulu-Natal province’s leading schoolboy first XIs are represented in one festival.
Hosts Maritzburg College and – in no particular order – Clifton College, Durban High School (DHS), Glenwood, Hilton College, Kearsney College, Michaelhouse, Northwood, St Charles College and Westville all play against some of the very best schoolboy cricket first XIs in the country.
The school first XIs from outside KZN taking part in this year’s 60th Oppenheimer Michaelmas Cricket Week are, in no particular order, St Stithians College, Pretoria Boys’ High School (PBHS), Grey College, King Edward VII School (KES), St David’s Marist Inanda, St Albans College, St John’s College, Jeppe, St Andrews College (Grahamstown), Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies), Hudson Park (East London)
and – in terms of the decades that the likes of KES have been at Michaelmas, a relatively new and invaluable addition in the form of the Cricket South Africa Talent Acceleration Programme XI (colloquially know as CSA TAP) a side that has taken the honours against the long-standing Michaelmas teams on numerous occasions.
Of much import, too, is the quality of cricketers that have passed through the Week who have gone on to great things.
Ali Bacher and Graeme Smith (KES), Kepler Wessels and Hansie Cronje (Grey College), AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis (Affies), and Hashim Amla (DHS) are some of the Michaelmas cricketers over the past 60 years whose post-school careers have led them to become SA national team captains.
And just some of the Michaelmas cricketers who have gone on to reach the pinnacle of the game and delight audiences around the world include Barry Richards (DHS), David Miller, Kevin Pietersen and Jonty Rhodes (Maritzburg College) and Quinton de Kock (KES).
Four years ago, KES Old Boy Quinton de Kock presented his signed Proteas ODI shirt to King Edward VII School headmaster Mr Dave Lovatt. The shirt is now framed and displayed in a place of honour at KES. The passionate Red Community of King Edward VII School are among the most ardent fans and followers of the prodigious talent that is Quinny. Photo and text info credit: www.kes.co.za
Just 8 days to go and we are into Day 1.
St Charles v Maritzburg College T20 derby 4pm today at Varsity Oval
It’s the much-anticipated Saints vs Red Black & White first XI Twenty20 derby 4pm at the Varsity Oval today and the question on my lips is: Will it be another 97-96 Epic??
The KZN Inland Big 4 Quadrangular – or T20 Big Bash presented by PMB Varsity Cricket Club – is into its second round this week and the two sides that emerged victorious from Round 1 are going head-to-head.
Jono Cook feature image: Maritzburg College’s talented grade 11 batsman Ross Klusener has the proven BMT to score runs when it matters most.
Last time out St Charles edged Michaelhouse by 10 runs while Maritzburg College comfortably dealt with a disappointing Hilton College.
Back to the 97-96 Match.
After the long-awaited SCC v MC 50-over match was cancelled without a ball being bowled due to the inclement weather in the first term, a T20 friendly was hastily arranged for the next mutually accepted gap the following week – and what a classic it turned out to be.
Saints were bundled out for a modest 97 and Maritzburg College were cruising to victory at the back-end of the match before some magic with the ball and out in the field by the celebrated Zim duo of SCC captain and 2019 SA Schools T20 Player of the Year Wes Madhevere and his super-talented countryman Clive Madande pulled the home side’s fortunes out of the fire and spurred them to the narrowest of one-run, last-ball-of-the-match victories.
Saints captain and all-rounder Wes Madhevere collected the SA Schools T20 Cricketer of the Year award recently.
Going into this afternoon’s 4pm Big Bash the Maritzburg College lads had spent some quality time out in the middle during the weekend’s Fasken Cricket Festival hosted by St David’s Marist Inanda in Johannesburg.
But the two sets of two-day double innings matches ain’t quite T20 so it’ll be interesting to see how quickly the men in the red-black-and-white-striped first XI caps adapt to the demands of the truncated form of the game.
Saints enjoyed a comfortable win in a low-scoring 50-over encounter with visitors Northwood on Saturday and are therefore probably more finely-tuned for today’s muscle-up.
St Charles College dad and avid supporter John Smithers knows that a sticky wicket makes for messy backyard cricket. Take action before it’s too late by consulting the expert in his field, John Smithers, at 082 337 2049 or go to www.midlandssepticservices.co.za
That said, a T20 local derby is anyone’s game so it’ll probably boil down to who of 2019 Coca-Cola Schools T20 National Franchise Finals silver medallists St Charles College or the gutsy well-balanced Maritzburg College squad want victory the most.
We will know for sure in just a few hours’ time.
The food and cooldrinks/coffee/cappuccino catering is good at the Varsity Oval (in the Peter Booysen Sports Park off Golf Road in Scottsville) while the cricket is sure to deliver.
Dads & Lads, T20 Super Sixes stem from clear, comfortable vision. Why be in doubt when you can go to the acknowledged leaders in their field for a consultation. www.hilliarandgray.co.za
Winning the toss and opting to bat could also be a game-breaker as the team batting second has to negotiate the in-between time when the setting sun and the floodlights compete for the batters’ attention.
See you there.
If not, you’re welcome to follow my live text commentary and more on the Jonathan Cook Facebook page.
Get on the front foot with Trish Sutton Driving School. Contact Trish right now at info@trishsutton.co.za