136 U16B Hockey The U16B side showed tenacity in their style of play and a strong work ethic on the training ground. When looking at the team’s results, one would not be wrong to think that the side had not produced the goods, but these players gave everything out on the pitch and enjoyed every minute. If you take out the Maritzburg College result, the team enjoyed several close encounters and were sometimes unlucky to come out on the losing side. This season could have been different had we been able to convert some of the chances we created and had a bit of luck. The captain, Nicholas Comrie, led from the front in his quiet manner. Keegan Peters had a busy season in goal, making several crucial saves in various matches. The defence showed a dramatic improvement and can be proud of their job. The midfield players gelled nicely and were extremely powerful going forward. We must keep in mind that these are young players and will improve as they mature. They linked well with the strikers and were not scared to take the odd shot. Several players made excellent progress, and some made their way into the A team, proving that demanding work is rewarded. As a coach, the 2023 season was challenging but rewarding. The players always gave 100%, enjoyed their practice sessions and consistently demonstrated a passion for their school and fellow players. I want to take this opportunity to thank the players and supporting staff, Mr Macdonald and Mr Bennett, for the role they played this year. Regular players: Nicholas Comrie (Captain), Jason de Gryse, Jason Denekamp, Angus Fyvie, Litha Gonya, Matthew Gouws, Oliver Gray, Michael Groom, Ethan McCluskey, Conor McKeown, Ngomusa Nhlabathi, James Nisbet, Lizwelihle Ntshangase, Keegan Peters (Goalkeeper), Blake Pugh, Rory Treleaven, Connor van Heerden Results: Played 9, Won 1, Lost 6, Drew 2 Mr Jon Robinson Coach U16C Hockey This proved to be a frustrating and rewarding season in equal measure. It was rewarding because the team showed signs of improvement as the season progressed, but it was frustrating as they struggled to finish off and score goals when in a favourable position. Our shortcorner conversion rate was equally disappointing. The team, however, displayed tenacity and fought to the end in each match. Highlights of the season included an excellent victory over a fancied DHS side, where the team converted the chances that came their way, and a hard-fought win against St Charles. Although the team went down to a strong Maritzburg College side, they played good, positive hockey and never gave an inch. The team drew against Clifton College and Michaelhouse and went down to Westville Boys’, Northwood, Glenwood U16B and Hilton. This final game of the season against Hilton typified the frustration experienced throughout the season, as the team completely outplayed their opponents only to give away a breakaway goal! It was a pleasure coaching the team, which comprised diverse and interesting characters. I wish them well in their future hockey endeavours at Kearsney. Regular players: Matthew Asbury, Liam Botha, Wandile Cele, Austin Clewlow, Spaso Curach, Joshua Griffiths (Captain), Michael Hean, Andrew James, Ethan Kuoni, Michael Lang, Joshua Lobban, Samuel Maziya, Ethan McCluskey, Connor McNeill, Ngomusa Nhlabathi, Kenton Saunders Results: Played 9, Won 2, Lost 5, Drew 2 Mr Neil Peacock Coach U16D Hockey The 16D team of 2023 wasn’t one of the ‘better skilled’ teams of the College but they never gave up on a hockey field. They always displayed pride and passion for their school. Mainly comprising Grade 9 students with a few Grade 10 boys, their willingness and passion for the game proved vital in the early stages of the season when it came to improving their skills and understanding the positioning on the turf. This commitment led to scoring a few goals, securing a few wins and gaining substantial experience. One of the positive things the team learned was respect, listening to other people’s ideas, tolerance and understanding that we are not all equally gifted. Teamwork and trust in each other’s ability were common themes. The team worked as a unit and always gave it all on the hockey field, even if this meant putting their bodies on the line for the team’s benefit. The team was never discouraged when they had to play stronger sides, and I think they even surprised themselves with some of the results. Regular players: Matthew Asbury, Daniel Berlyn, Rowan Davel, Matt Jurgensen, Ethan King, Michael Lang, Connor McNeill, Kwenza Mkhize, Caleb Naicker, Ezile Nodada, Rourke Stacey, Noah Stewart, Dylan Xiang Results: Played 9, Won 2, Lost 7 J Janse van Vuuren Coach U16E Hockey The 2023 hockey season proved to be an incredible learning experience for players and coaches. U16E had a slow start to the season, with boys trying to figure out the sporting code and the positions that matched their skills. As the season advanced, the boys enjoyed playing in the matches and made significant strides in their abilities. The team will always be thankful to Mr Zungu for his guidance, encouragement and support. The highlight of this season was the dedication and growth shown by every player on the team. Their commitment was evident in their eagerness to participate in any game and wholehearted effort in every match. A special mention goes to Riordan Govender, who played his heart out for the team but couldn’t finish the season with us due to an injury. His strength and fighting spirit were exemplary. Lastly, the team would like to thank the parents, our most incredible supporters, who attended and cheered for us every weekend. Regular players: Nevaal Arbee, Lethukuthula Chonco, Jack Coventry, Awande Luthuli, Khwezi Msimang, Othandwayo Mvelase, Caleb Naicker, Gus van Niekerk, Ezile Nodada, Thabang Ramokgopa, Lithemba Shabalala, Fezile Sokhela, Sebastian Xiang Results: Played 8, Won 1, Drew 1, Lost 6 Miss Dineo Fihlela Mr Manzini Zungu Coaches U16A Hockey
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