HOCKEY TOUR TO SOUTH AFRICA
This summer, 39 girls had an incredible opportunity to travel to South Africa on the hockey tour. Despite it being their winter season, we were blessed with beautiful weather and the breathtaking scenery of Table Mountain as we began with a training session to shake the journey out of our legs.
Over the course of the trip, we played seven intense matches against local South African schools, who were the kindest hosts. The matches varied in results; there were some where we had to defend more and some where we were able to refine our finishing skills and scored many goals. By the end of all the matches, we had definitely developed our technique and skills while also improving our bonds with each other.
Off the pitch, we made many unforgettable memories. One of the most exciting was the zip-lining between mountains and suspension bridge. Another was the visit of Table Mountain and the hike up Lion’ s
Head as we discovered the most famous mountains in Cape Town. Getting to know the South African schoolgirls off the field was another special part of the trip as we swapped stories and learned about our different backgrounds.
The safari was a standout experience. Spotting wildlife up close after a week of hard matches was the perfect way to cool down. While watching the giraffes, lions, elephants, buffalo and more, we also learned about the devastating impact of poaching and the efforts being made to protect endangered species. Meeting Tandi the Rhino, who had survived a poaching attack, was striking.
Overall, the South Africa hockey tour was a perfect blend of sport, adventure and fun; from the matches to the zip-lining, the swims in the sea and the hikes, it is a trip that will stay with us forever as we look forward to the season ahead.
Marjolaine Mauduit and Charlotte Bloodworth, Lower Sixth
76 SPORT REVIEW