Chronicle-2023

175 174 Under 16D Soccer Football season is thoroughly enjoyed by the boys of the College and the majority of boys are fully committed to the sport. Our U16 age group was very competitive, against other schools and between themselves, as boys fought to play for the higher sides. This group of boys was very sociable, having played together in most sports codes during the other terms. This brought a positive culture into the team, resulting in good performances and enjoyment. The boys played their hearts out, only losing two games in the season, and I couldn’t be prouder. The losses came against Hilton College and Westville Boys’ High School. Ironically, our loss to Westville Boys was reversed at the end of the season with an easy win against the same team. This became the season’s highlight for the boys, as they were heartbroken when they lost to them in our first meeting. Grit and perseverance helped us to turn things around in our second meeting. As a coach, I am proud that the boys had a wonderful time and enjoyed their soccer season. I wish them all the best of luck as they head to the Open sides next year. Results: Played 6, Won 4, Lost 2 Mr Yanga Sotshangane Coach Under 16E Soccer The season began with several losses, as the players tried to find their best positions. After analysis, the coach came up with a formation that best suited the ability of these players. The team played a re-match against Westville Boys’ High, who we had lost to before, and the new tactics helped the team to a 1-0 win. The players realised the team's strengths and began playing to this system, resulting in a vastly improved effort. The players must be complimented on their commitment to their team and each other and their willingness to adopt a style they were more suited to playing. I wish these players all the best and will follow their progress as they move up to the senior age group next year. Regular players: Connor van Heerden, Caden Moodley, Tyler Jelliman, Kwenza Mkhize, Bandile Mkhabela, Emre Ozok, Matthew Blair, Hayden Lombard, Travis Rae, Ariv Raidoo, Oliver Tubb, Reece Clarke, Oagile Dingake, Jordan Naicker, Hugo Vanstone, Tor Lofstrand, Gustav Swanepoel Results: Played 6, Won 1, Drew 1, Lost 4 Mr Neville Govender Coach The U15A Soccer Team had an eventful season, playing eight matches. While the results were not as successful as we had hoped, standout moments showcased the team's potential and unity. One such highlight was the intense battle against arch-rivals Hilton College in our first encounter, where we secured a draw in the dying minutes of the game. There was a fiery atmosphere, with both teams giving their best. Our team exhibited exceptional determination and teamwork. This result boosted the team's confidence and set a positive tone for the rest of the season. Throughout the season the team spirit remained consistently positive. The boys showcased an unwavering commitment to their teammates and never hesitated to put in the extra effort for the collective good. This unity was evident on and off the field, where players would motivate and support each other during training sessions and matches. This camaraderie played a vital role in our successes and should be commended. While our win-loss ratio was not ideal, it is important to acknowledge that the boys displayed determination and resilience throughout the season. Although most of the matches were lost narrowly towards the end, each match served as a learning experience, enabling us to identify areas of improvement and work on them for future seasons. At times, we committed elementary mistakes in defence, allowing easy goals to be scored. Our attack was deadly, especially Bonga Maphanga, our prolific striker, but it sometimes lacked finishing. While we scored goals in several matches, we also created many chances which we struggled to convert. In the future, the team must enhance its attacking prowess and effective off-ball movement, which will contribute to improved results and a more balanced team performance. Overall, the team had a challenging but ultimately rewarding season. Congratulations to our captain, Connor McNeill, who led by example on and off the SOCCER U15A TEAM Back row (L-R): James Nisbet, Litha Gonya, Mark van der Merwe, Lwandile Njapha, Troy Frédéric Middle row: Lizwe Ntshangase, Kaylin Moodley, Alwande Mkhize, Jonty Wiggett, Mawethu Bodlani, Ata Mazibuko Front row: Nicolas Kohler, Mr Bonginkosi Ndaba (Coach), Connor McNeill, Mr Blessing Mngadi (Assistant Coach), Mpumelelo Mkhize Absent: Simnene Kubheka, Bonga Maphanga Under 15A Soccer U15A Soccer

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