When did you make your debut and how did it feel?

I made my debut in October 2003 vs Malaysia at the Afro-Asian Games. Felt very nervous and wide-eyed but proud and excited to be playing for my country.

Ian Haley in action against Australia at the World Cup

What have been your most memorable achievements, tournaments, moments thus far?

A hat-trick against Canada in the 2009 Russia 4 Nations final. I happened to be in the right places in our 8-1 drubbing over Canada…great team performance! The 2010 Hockey World Cup in India was very special for me for all its moments and circumstances. 

What does Ian do away from hockey?

I am a PE teacher at Queen’s College in the UK, and am also an assistant house master in the school boarding house.

Do you play overseas? If so, for whom and how has it been?

I play in the England Hockey Premier League for Exeter University HC. I have played in the UK for the past 11 years at various clubs in the England national league, and also for Camberwell HC in Melbourne, Australia. I attended Millfield School UK on a sports scholarship to study A-levels during 2001-2002, and then went on to study an honours degree at Exeter University.

Any interests or hobbies? 

Sport in general. Am now very interested in Aussie rules football from my time in Melbourne. Just taken up adventure racing and trail running when I have time off from hockey. 

Ian Haley scores against Pakistan at the World Cup

What would you say has been your toughest moment to date? 

Falling ill with septacaemia (blood poisoning) and osteitis pubis during 2004. I was hospitalised on a drip for a week and was off sport for 6 months after that. 

Who has been the toughest opposition to play against at international level and why?

Australia. They are very aggressive in the way they play, and are ruthless.

Any nicknames and why were you given them?

Halerbomb…when I scored a top corner goal on our 2007 Chile tour. The Ferret…the way I get around the field in people’s faces.

What is your feel on the South African men’s hockey team’s progression in world hockey?

I think the squad that we currently have has the potential to do something special…It’s just a case of when.

Any superstitions during or after games?

Lots of routines I guess, too many to mention. I just do them without thinking now… Helps me focus.

Advise to youngsters?

Hard work will pay off and your time will come. Get out of your comfort zone and test yourself overseas in the top leagues.

Ian Haley celebrates a goal against Spain at the World Cup

When did you make your debut and how did it feel?

2005, Africa Cup in Pretoria, it was a dream come true after lots of long and hard work. I was so privileged to get to play with some of the more experienced players that I had admired and looked up to, so I was nervous but so excited.

What have been your most memorable achievements, tournaments, moments thus far?

Junior World Cup 2005 – Chile
Africa Cup – Pretoria
World Cup 2009 – Argentina
Commonwealth Games 2010 – India
Playing in the Hoofklas in Holland for Klein Zwitserland

I’ve also played test matches in the different countries against some of the best teams.

What does Marcelle do away from hockey?

Along with my mother, Nona and boyfriend, Bevan we own a Swim school and yoga centre in East London where I teach Learn to swim and coach water polo. I love spending time with my friends and family. I am a bit of a beach bum and water baby so you will find me on the beach or in the swimming pool. I have also represented South Africa in Water polo along with my two sisters Lee – Anne and Samantha. Other than that I love a good laugh, couch with my dog Captain and a good movie.

Do you play overseas?

Yes I did play overseas for Klein Zwitserland in Hague. It was an amazing experience. I learnt so much, on and off the hockey field. The Dutch league is the best in the World and every game was top class and tough. I met so many great people and made lasting friendships. I grew as a player not only technically but also learnt how to deal with all other aspects off the field.

Marcelle Keet in action against Spain at the World Cup

Do you have any interests or hobbies?

I love having a good laugh, watching movies, enjoy spending time with family and friends, I love being outdoors, going down to the beach, playing water polo, paddling Surf ski and canoeing with my boyfriend or father and sister. I also enjoy photography, drawing and painting.

What would you say has been your toughest moment to date?

I can’t think of anything at the moment, but at the end of the day when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Nothing is too tough to handle.

Who has been the toughest opposition to play against at international level and why?

Toughest opponents would most definately have to be the top teams in the world, the Dutch and Argentina. They are tough cookies, fast, skillfull and so passionate about their hockey which makes them a strong force to play against.

Any nicknames and why were you given them?

I have a few but won’t reveal them all! Keet or Keety, Smelly and Celly are the most common though. Obviously the ones are from my surname (sometimes I think people forget my real name) then Smelly is from my hockey friends I’m not sure why…and Celly is from my Mommy.

What is your feel on the South African women’s hockey team’s progression in world hockey?

I have such a great feeling about SA Women’s hockey and I am so proud to be a South African player, the structures that have been put in place and the opportunities we have been given by our Coach, Giles Bonnet and from our sponsor Investec and SAHA, such as playing so many International games and tours and having the chance to go play in top leagues overseas has been absolutely incredible. I have also watched the junior levels and there is so much talent in South Africa and with the right people looking after it, I think we have an extremely bright future.

Do you have any superstitions?

Hmmmm, well I am not the most superstitious person but I do like to always warm up with my buddies Les George, Marsha Marescia and Kim Hubach before games and have a good laugh to relax! I also think I have a pair of lucky undersocks. After the game I always look so forward to those ice baths we love.

If you could change any dimension in your game, what would it be?

There is always so much to work on or improve, as your game is never complete.

When did you make your debut, how did it go and how did it feel?

I made my debut at the age of 22 at the 2006 Hockey world Cup held in Germany. It was against Holland or the Netherlands as they otherwise known. We unfortunately lost that game 2-0, but even though we lost I came off the field with great pride and fulfilment just wanting to play more hockey at that level.

Geoff Abbott in action against Great Britain at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games

When did you retire from international hockey?

Unfortunately I retired at the end of 2008 after the Beijing Olympic Games, where my last game was against china, which was quite fitting as they were the host nation.

What where your most memorable achievements, tournaments, moments?

I have so many great moments that I will never forget. Things such as the Olympic opening ceremony, singing the national anthem for the first time, scoring my first international goal (vs spain in Potch). But my tournament I enjoyed the most was the 2007 African qualifier because we pulled together as a team to have fun and naturally winning followed. My most memorable moment would be scoring my first Hatrick to beat Belgium 3-1 in the deciding game of a 5 match series, winning the series 3-2.

What is Geoff Abbott doing with himself now?

I am currently investing my time in working hard to achieve and make a name for myself in the corporate world. I work for a specialist Chemical company were I have taken up a supply chain role, and at the same time I have enrolled at the university of KwaZulu Natal to further my qualifications part time.

Interests or hobbies?

I am still very much involved in hockey, I think for me hockey will always be my interest and maybe much later in life become a hobby. Otherwise just spending time with friends and family.

Geoff Abbott gets past a Pakistan player at the 2008 Beijing Oylmpic Games

What would you say was your toughest moment during your career?

The toughest moment of my career I would say was the decision to stop playing international hockey, I believe I still had or have a lot to offer to the sport in SA but had to make the decision based on my long term future.

Who where the toughest team to play against in international hockey and why?

I would definitely say Australia after the good 10-0 beating they gave at the Olympics in 2008. They play so well as a team and they are ruthless anywhere on the park. I don’t feel so bad though after watching them take apart India in the commonwealth final.

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Any nicknames and why were you given them?

Goof would be the most long standing and probably obvious on why the nick name. Others being Hawk, after the skater “Tony Hawk” I was given this nick name when I made the move from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, when they noticed my shorts being worn a little lower than the normal guy.

You had a very famous goal celebration at the 2007 African Olympic Qualifier, can you tell us what happened?

Famous? Thank you. It was a goal I scored against Kenya in a must win game for both teams. Myself and Blade (Thornton Mcdade) worked the ball from deep inside our half which ended in blade reverse stick crossing the ball to me diving in and scoring at the far post. At that point I think it was safe to say emotion took over and I decided to take my shirt off and put it back on the wrong why round to run passed the crowd showing off my number (17), having the whole home crowed boo me… As you can imagine I have taken vast amount of abuse for this but don’t regret it at all.

How do you see the SA Men’s team progression in World hockey?

I believe South African Hockey players have the talent and determination to become one of if not the top teams in the world much like our cricket and rugby teams. It is no secret SA is known for some amazing athletes. But this can’t happen without a number of things in place, the 2 most important things in my opinion are firstly more international exposure, we do not play enough internationals a year to keep up with the top teams, the second would be the financial backing to fund the exposure. Without these I feel SA will battle to break into the top 8 in the world.

Geoff Abbott under pressure from a Canadian player at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games

Name: Wade Paton
Age: 23
Test Caps: 19
Test Goals: 5   

Name: Taine Michael Paton
Age: 21
Test Caps: 3
Test Goals: 0 (soon to change)

When did you make your debut for South Africa and who was it against? How did it feel?

Wade: I made my debut against the World Champions Germany in Randburg 2007. We pulled off a historic win beating them 5-3. Making your debut for your country is a surreal moment in any hockey player’s career.

Taine: In March 2009 against Germany! Besides the intense shaking it was one of the most powerful feelings I have ever felt before in my hockey career!!

Do you have any superstitions before or during games?

Wade: Yes, I have to tie my shoe laces before the warm up and then after the huddle before the game starts.

Taine: I like to warm up in a warm up shirt and only put my match on at the last minute.

What are your individual expectations when you attend the World Cup in India? What are the team’s expectations?

Wade: I have very high expectations for myself as it is an opportunity to play against the world’s best and it will be a measure of my ability. As South Africans we do not get too much international exposure but when we do we are dying to show the world who we are.

As a National team we want to prove to the world and most of all the people at home that we can compete at the highest level and be successful. Our aim is obviously to come away with a medal, if it was not our aim then there is no point in competing. We are a committed group of Lads, dedicated to change the face of South African hockey and the World Cup is the perfect stage.

Taine: I personally want to stand up to the “big names” of hockey and show them that they aren’t the only guys who can play this game and I want to make the most of every second I spend on the hockey pitch. We are going out there to prove a massive point to the world, that we are a team to be worried about and to earn some respect from the rest of the hockey playing nations.

Who have been the major role players in your hockey career and why?

Wade: My parents have been the biggest role players for me as they have had to make so many sacrifices in order for me to play the game I love. It’s hard to play this sport in our country and without my parents constant support nothing I have achieved would have been possible. My major hockey role players have been Jamie Dwyer and recently Paul Blake, who is a member of the current National team. Jamie Dwyer because of his brilliance, natural flair and ability to change the outlook of any game. His training ethic is also second to none and that is something I try to replicate both on and off the turf. Blakey as he his known to most is the most passionate man you will ever meet. He has taught me and many others to believe in the people around you and that one should not leave any rock unturned. Blakey is commitment and dedication personified.

Taine: My parents are number one! Without their sacrifices I wouldn’t have been able to get to where I am today and where I want to be in the next few years. My brother also has been setting the bar quite high and giving me great goals to aim for.

What has been the major highlight of your career so far?

Wade: It would be our win over Egypt in the final of the Africa Cup for Nations in Ghana 2009. The atmosphere was electrifying and the noise levels where to a point where you could not talk to the guy next to you on the field. The post match ceremony was incredible and it doesn’t get much better than celebrating that kind of victory with your best mates.

Taine: Being selected to go to the WORLD CUP! But before this it was most certainly the Junior World Cup in Singapore/Malaysia last year in June. 

You recently attended a camp before the team was selected. Can you tell us what a typical day at camp is like for you? The readers would also be interested in the pressures and competition for places in the team?

Wade: A typical day at camp would be getting up bright an early around 7am and then heading off to training at about 7:30am for a 2 hour training session from 8-10am. Once back at the hotel we usually have a pool session which is taken by the guy who arrives last at the pool, usually Brendan Botes. We then have some free time, usually spent watching movies, hockey games or some sort of series on our laptops and then a sleep to end off a good morning. The afternoon/early evening training session is usually from 5-7pm and is followed by another pool session or even an ice bath. Our evenings are usally spent doing video sessions on our team tactics or analysing opposition playing structures. The evening is usually ended with a cup of coffee with a few of the Lads and then bed time.

To be absolutely honest, with this group of players there is no pressure and the competiton is as clean as it gets. Everybody puts in their best efforts and supports the efforts put in by others. It creates a very relaxed enviroment when issues of selection are brought up which is exactly what we as a squad and team stand for.

Taine: Well it’s usually an early rise for a little pool session which is fairly gentle and then from there we head off for a light breakfast. We sometimes have a video session before we go off to morning training but that depends on the coach’s plans for the training. Training is around two hours long this also depending on what stage of the camp we are in, straight from there we go back to the hotel for a warm down in the pool along with a few bellyflops from the ‘back of the bus crew’. Lunch is next on the to do list and then we have a few hours in which we can relax a bit, do some video work on your games, do research for presentations that some of us are assigned at the beginning of the camp, the idea of this time is to try stay off your feet. I did find myself doing the laundry in this time though as this was my sworn duty. About an hour until our second training session we might have a presentation done for lads which is both full of info as well as quite an entertainment! Then off to our session for two hours (sometimes it’s a squad match/ match). We eat supper straight after that and then back to the hotel to catch a shower and get ready for a meeting in which we mainly do video or a presentation. Then finally bed after about an hour session and prepare ourselves for the next day, often find ourselves watching a good movie to wind down. Oh ya and in and amongst all that we play DER ball and I recently learnt that it’s an awesome game….. if you not on the receiving end of the DER ball !!

We are lucky in this team in that everyone is striding for the same goal and in order to get there we need to help each other and push each other through anything and everything. Competition does heat up quite a bit as there are a lot of really good players who can all play for our country so all the time you are looking to break the barriers and bring something new and brilliant to the team and this is where the pressure all builds up from. Guys hate it when they get a niggle and are told to rest cause they no its setting them back and that’s where we end up biting the bullet just to stay on a train that last little bit.

Tell us about yourself when you aren’t playing hockey?

Wade: When I’m not playing hockey you will probably find me on the beach relaxing with mates and enjoying the sun and surf. I really enjoy a good poker night now that I am getting a bit better and starting to win. I love my music but I am not into to much of the commercial stuff, I enjoy house music and live by the lyrics of a band called Bon Iver.

Taine: I love to spend time on the beach just chilling and going for a nice bodysurf and the odd bodyboard. A good movie is always right up my ally until recently I found a book which is taking up a lot of my spare time. Being a Durban guy things are always max relax  away from hockey, and we often have braai’s and poker with all our mates which is great entertainment.

If you could change or improve on any aspects of your game, what would it be?

Wade: I wish I could convert more of the opportunities that I am given in the circle. I really want to be known as a goal scoring midfielder.

Taine: I would like to have more speed, it just helps to be able to gain that extra two or three yards on the opponent and I would also like to improve my shooting, maybe become more consistent. There a few other things I want to improve obviously but I won’t bore you with them.

You have played in the Belgium league… How does playing overseas benefit you (Technically, tactically, training styles and ethics, growing as an individual both on and off the field? Etc)

Wade: I played in Belgium in the 2008/2009 season. The league was very beneficial for my own game as every weekend was a tough encounter of an IPT semi-final/final level and sometimes even higher. You play with and against some of the worlds best players week in and week out and this will only benefit one’s game. In Europe the game is very professional in terms of video work on opposition and training the way your team is going to counter the specifics of your opposition on the weekend. The training sessions involve a number of shooting drills incorporating all the basics that are needed in the game. Drills get as simple as running the ball in from the 25 yard line and smashing it at the keeper. Illustrating the importance that the Europeans hold in being able to score goals. The training sessions are like a war zone and everybody is training fill tilt ALL the time.

Living in an apartment was a first for me. Having to do cooking, cleaning and washing was a new experience and I am very glad that I have now learnt the in’s and out’s of living on your own. The friendships I made will stick with me forever and I never know when a Belgium contact will be able to help me out in the near future. I highly recommend that if anybody is given the chance to play overseas they should grab it. It is such a life experience!

Taine: I have learnt so many different ways to look at the game of hockey. The tactics are really to the point and you have to perform consistently during the game or else it’s almost like a certain loss, well that’s how they see it most times. It makes you have to really think hard on the field. They are very technical over there and I can see that it has helped me a lot in my game. The speed of the game is faster and so I had to learn to perform the skills at a higher intensity in order to achieve anything. Our training sessions are very focussed and specific, everyone is there to improve and grow as a player. We are always pushing each other to the max and there is no love lost when we are out on that pitch. There hockey culture is really intense and everyone wants to win the Championship. Big crowds come in to watch every game, it’s just a great feeling to know that people admire the skills of hockey.

Meeting all those new people and seeing how they go through their lives just kind of opens up new windows to look out at life from. All of this just gives you that extra energy and drive to work harder to get what you want both on and off the field. I’m more aware of what I do off the field so that i’m able to impress on the field. It’s a huge confidence thing! Bottom line is that my hockey has improved and got much ‘faster’ in one season there!

HockeySA.co.za would like to congratulate the Paton’s on a fantastic achievement!!!

Photo Taken By: Amelia Cox

Name: Austin Smith
Age: 24
Test Caps: 58
Test Goals:14

When did you make your Debut and how did it feel to represent your country for the 1st time?

My debut was in March 2004 in Pretoria. I played in a 3 match series against Canada, and to be honest it was all a little bit to much for me at that stage. I was 18 at the time and although I felt immensely proud to be part of the senior team I felt well out of my depth. It was only until I started training regularly with the senior team that I felt more comfortable, and could really begin to enjoy it.

You have recently moved to play in the Dutch league after many years in the English hockey environment. How has playing in these leagues benefited you (Technically, Tactically, Training styles and ethics, growing as an individual both on and off the field? Etc.)

Playing in the English Premier League made the biggest difference in my game. The standard of the training sessions was what I enjoyed the most. Although we only trained for two hours twice a week with a game on the weekend, the quality of what we did and with the players I had around me made it top quality. I chose Reading Hockey Club because of the level of players that were already there. It meant that every time I trained I needed to be at my best, and my game rapidly developed in all aspects. You get shown up quickly when you’re having an off day and that motivated me to get better when I trained on my own. Tactically, I have also gained a deeper understanding of the game. We had a great coach who taught me a number of new concepts which has given me a great understanding of the movements required within a team to become successful.
 
How does the standard of hockey in England and Holland compare to hockey in SA? (ie. Club, Provincial and National)

It’s hard to compare the Dutch and UK leagues with what we have in South Africa as they play a national league. If we were lucky enough to have a system where that were possible I think the level would be a lot closer to theirs. We have a number of highly talented players in South Africa, the problem is they don’t play against each other often enough. I think any of our provincial sides could match a premier UK club side. So while the situation of players being out of reach of each other in South Africa continues I would recommend that more players go overseas to play in the premier leagues. The emphasis is to have players compete in the top leagues and not to mess about in the lower ones.

How has it been as captain of the SA men’s team with the new group of players?

I couldn’t have asked for an easier group to work with. All of the younger players who have joined the squad have added immense value, unafraid to challenge the so called ’senior’ players of the team which I really enjoy. Just because you may have been there longer doesn’t make you better. Hockey is only getting faster and more dynamic, and this means you can’t sit back and admire your past selections, you need to keep improving. The new group gives us this dimension, along with a will to succeed and to achieve new things for the South African hockey community. I feel honoured to lead this group!

What preparation are you as the individual and the SA team as a whole doing as a build up to the Champions Challenge later this year, the World Cup and Commonwealth Games next year? Ie. Camps, Tours, Test matches?

There are a number of players currently playing in foreign leagues, who will be flying back to Durban at the end of October to meet the rest of the locally based players for a weeks camp. After that we will meet up again in late November to go to Argentina for the Champions Challenge. The new years plans are not all finalised yet, but will entail some training and test matches in January before the World Cup in March. That’s all I’m really focused on for the moment.

If you could add any dimension to your game, what would it be?

I’m currently working on my 1 v 1 attacking skills. The ability to put pressure on your opposite number is really important and I need to get better at it.

Most memorable hockey moment?

Scoring the opening goal for Team South Africa at the Beijing Olympics against Pakistan. I had spent months prior to the Olympics training that flick and for it to come off first time was incredible.

Do you believe the current group of players can break into the top 8 in world hockey?

Yes, and I know every player in our squad believes it. The line is so fine between coming 1st and last at a Champions Challenge, and that’s the battle we have ahead of ourselves. We need to make sure we are on the ‘right side’ of the fine line for a change, then we will see some changes in the rankings.

Tell us about Austin Smith when he’s not playing hockey?

I’m about to finish my Bachelor of Education degree, that has been taking up a lot of my time but I’ve enjoyed it and look forward to teaching full time one day. As I always say “full time work will always be there, being young enough to travel and play hockey full time is not”. Besides that I love going back to South Africa and spending some precious time at home and with my family and mates. Traveling with my girlfriend is also up there!

Other interests?

You may be interested to know that I’m a keen gardener! I think it has to do with my compulsive need to have things look neat and orderly. I find it really relaxing and rewarding…

Name: Cindy Botha
Age: 25
Test Caps: 8
Test Goals: 1

When did you make your Debut and how did it feel to represent your country for the 1st time?

My First Debut was in January 2009 at the German series in Stellenbosch. My first game was actually postponed till the next day due to the bad fires they were having at the time, so by the time the day finally came I was really excited and I loved every minute of it. It hadn’t all really all sunk in yet, until I was actually standing on the field singing my National anthem, it definitely was a dream come true for me!

You attended the African Qualifier in Ghana, what was it like? What were some of your highlights?

Ghana was great. Really not what we expected at all. They treated us so well and really went out of their way and the people were so friendly. We also had lovely accommodation and having our men’s team travel with us was good for the comradery in S.A hockey. My main highlight would definitely be the ‘amazing race’ through the streets and markets of Ghana which was organised as a social event between the boys and the girls. It added a fantastic competitive element off the field as well as being an eye opening experience.

Have you ever played hockey overseas, for whom and how do you feel it benefited your game?

Yes, I spent a season overseas in England, Canterbury, and I played for Canterbury. Ian Jennings was my coach (known to most as Jenno) and he was brilliant and did wonders for me and my hockey. The level and coaching benefited me tremendously and I feel it took my hockey from one level to the next. It benefited me strength wise, as the England National league is tough, mental wise as Jenno is really tough, and also as a person I learnt so much on and off the field.

Can you tell us about your training routine and buildup to the Champions Challenge later this year?

We have been building this whole year as a National team for Champions Challenge and tournaments such as Four Nations and Africa Cup have all been stepping stones in preparing for this tournament. We have all been training very hard within our provinces and I have travelled to Cape Town to train with the majority of the team where we played numerous matches against boys teams. Besides the usual rigorous training schedule there has been lots of extra training sessions to fine tune specific aspects of my game.

Do you have any superstitions or habits before, during or after games?

Mmm, well I have to play in black underwear Always have and always will, and habits such as going to the bathroom before I play is one that will never change.

Tell us about Cindy Botha when she’s not playing hockey?

Hahaha, well when I am not playing hockey or training, I absolutely love swimming, so am then doing swimming training. Otherwise am usually at the beach, love having breakfasts, going for lunches, coffees, as well as having a good party when I can. In other words, I love to work hard and play hard.

If you could add any dimension to your game, what would it be?

As a sports woman I am always continually trying to improve and be better in all areas, however one dimension would be my defensive work which I have been focusing on quite alot lately.

Most memorable hockey moment?

Scoring my first internatioanl goal at the Africa Cup of Nations this year was very exciting for me, however one of my most memorable moments was scoring a top right reverse stick goal for Canterbury my overseas club in a crucial game, making the score go to 2-2 as we were 2-1 down. There have been so many ‘Firsts’ for me this year that each one really has been and is memorable, and each time I go onto the pitch to play for my country it seems more memorable than the next! I really love it!

If you could change anything in South African hockey, what would it be?

Perhaps to try and improve the strength of local leagues, we should have Invitation Tournaments (like the one held in Durban in May), once a month, each time in a different Province. We could all assist with costs eg: hosting the out of town players. When I was in Canterbury we traveled most weekends, sometimes up to four/five hours for a match and then drove straight back! This would definitely raise the standard on a regular basis and not just once a year at IPT.

Other interests?

Well I am a real shop-a-holic, I love going to movies (and having salt and vinegar popcorn) as well as spending time with family and good friends. A braai at home is one of my all time favourites (boerewors rolls or spare ribs, made with my dad’s special recipe) or else a dinner out is definitely one of my favourite relaxations!

Name: Justin Reid-Ross          
Age: 23
Test Caps: 36

When did you make your Debut and how did it feel to represent your country for the 1st time?

I made my Debut at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. Without sounding too clichéd, playing in the green and gold was a childhood dream, especially because my father and uncle had both represented SA at international level. The atmosphere and hype around the tournament made the moment even more special.

You are now in your second season in the Belgium league… How does playing overseas benefit you (Technically, Tactically, Training styles and ethics, growing as an individual both on and off the field? Etc.)

Playing my club hockey overseas has definitely turned my career around. The infrastructure is unbelievable and the level of hockey being played through the age groups is mind-blowing. I have been introduced to a number of new styles of hockey, through the influence of a Belgian and Australian coach.

Our team also has new tactics for every Championship match, regarding build-up play, pressing, positioning and team structure. This is all based on the analysis and preparation done by our coaching staff. This also changes according to whether we are playing a home or away game, if there are injuries within the squad, or the result of our previous encounter.

The training sessions are very structured:

Tuesday sessions are purely technical, which means 2 hours of pure basics – hitting, trapping, slapping, aerial skills, ball carrying and goal scoring.

Wednesday is an hour of high intensity physical work without stick, followed by mini-games(4v4, 5v5, 6v6, full teams) for an hour.

Friday is “selection training” and is all match related. This session includes all the tactics we’ll be using for Sunday’s game and focus on team structure and PC’s.

The training environment has taught me to be come much more versatile as a player and i’ve found myself playing in a variety of positions since joining the club.

How does the standard of hockey in Belgium compare to hockey in SA? (ie. Club, Provincial and National)

The hockey league in Belgium is a national league. That means that every age-group, from the minimum (u/10-11) to the open age groups compete in a structured league competition, against teams of the same level from across the country.

In each age group there will be several levels of competition and every year will result in teams being promoted and relegated. As you can imagine this ingrains a firm sense of competition in even the youngest of the competitive leagues.

Every weekend is a massive game with large numbers of spectators attending every game! The Men’s Championship is considered one of the best in Europe and the matches are fiercely contested every sunday, with as much drama as a Premiership football match!

The National level in Belgium is rapidly on the rise, with the Belgian u/18 national team having recently won the Euro Nations Cup for their age group, competing against the likes of Germany, Spain, Holland and England. The u/21 and senior national teams also had good performances at the Junior World Cup and Beijing Olympics respectively. 

Can you tell us a bit about the African qualifier you attended? (such as the opposition, team dynamic, pressures, facilities, accommodation, qualifying)

The Africa Cup for Nations was an incredible experience.

The facilities in Accra were top class and the organisation of the tournament was handled to perfection. I think many African countries caught a bit of a wake up when they saw the quality organisation and infrastructure in one of world hockey’s smaller unions.

As a team we always felt like we would be leaving with the gold medal and the automatic qualification for the World Cup and our on-field performances echoed this feeling. The vibe within the squad has been at an all time high this year and everyone is buying into the new set of fundamental principles we have decided upon. This has also been reflected in our results as a national team.

Naturally the level of competition in Africa wasn’t particularly high, but the games against Egypt are always a completely different ball game. They came out firing in the final and when the game entered the last 10 minutes locked at 1-1, the true character of the squad came out. When we finally ended the game 3-1 victors, there was a sense of accomplishment within the team. It is a great achievement as a national team to have qualified for one of the biggest hockey competitions in the world.

If you could add any dimension to your game, what would it be?

I’d like to improve my “on the ball” skills, dribbling, changing direction and moving with the ball. As well as improving my balance between attacking play and controlling the ball.

Most memorable hockey moment?

Thats a tough one! Either scoring a goal on debut at Commonwealth Games or scoring the equaliser against World Champions Germany when we beat them in Randburg in 2007.

If you could change anything in South African hockey, what would it be?

I think the most important thing would be to implement a National League for the senior club or provincial teams. I realise that without major sponsors this is impossible but it is critical for the development of our sport at the top level.

Do you believe the current group of players in the National squad can break into the top 10 in world hockey and why?

I do. We have had a lot of good quality input from Mike Cooper and Tim Goodenough from “In The Zone” and we have set our goals as a team very high. Everyone realises the work and sacrifice that goes into being a top 10 international team and we have all bought into that.

The current squad of players all want the same thing for SA Hockey and I think people can see this in the way we have performed this year as a new group. We want to continue with these performances and results and get some big results in the major tournaments we have coming up.

Tell us about Justin-Reid Ross when he’s not playing hockey?

I am studying a degree in English language and literature through Unisa. At the moment being based in Belgium I do a lot of junior hockey coaching. Otherwise I like to spend my time reading and finding new bands and music I’ve never heard before. I also enjoy a good game of Koo and Der Ball.

Other interests?

Massive Manchester United fan! Any live music concerts I can get to and i’m currently (attempting) to learn to play guitar.

Name:

Age: 29

Who do you currently coach in South Africa…? Club? Province? National? Any team achievements you want to mention?

 UKZN (Durban) Men’s 1^st (7^th year)
Kwa Zulu Natal U21 A indoor (Winners 09)
South Africa U19 (U21 Tournament Winners 09)
South Africa U18 and U17 Boys
KwaZulu Natal ‘Raider’s Men (Winners 09)
Glenwood High School

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KwaZulu Natal U21 A (Winners 06)
KwaZulu Natal ‘Raiders’ Women (4^th 07)

What are your thoughts on the performances of the South African Senior Teams this year?

Good. Haven’t seen enough to comment but I think the guys have generally been getting the selection right which really has helped results. Looking forward to a top series, to test the guys.

What are some of your achievements as a coach?

Above at 2

(Most importantly, you’re only as good as the players you work with)
A few 2^nd places at the U21indoor and outdoor 08.
Lots of U21 indoor 2^nd places to the Inlands guys prior 08.Thanks Gally
FIH High Performance Coach (Awarded 08)

KZN Coastal has had a very successful season in terms of their results at Senior and U21 tournaments. What do you think the secret to the success of the province has been?

In the U21 program as well as the senior program having most of the players based at one institution (Club) really has helped team development going into tournament.

7 in the Raiders men and 14 in the U21 side from UKZN really has helped a group of players buy into our systems and processes that I have tried to implement pre and during tournament. As well as a group of senior players that bought into the HP training side of things leading into tournament.

A more competitive, local KZN League.

Most importantly a GIFTED GROUP OF PLAYERS

Your views on the strength of South Africa’s league and Provincial Structures? Any suggestions on how to improve them?

The normal standard argument of more consistently competitive hockey. A NHL throughout the season but budget constraints does not make this viable

More non institution Clubs and players having the correct training methods and ethic, including players conditioning relative to work to increase our player base.

What do you believe is the key to being or becoming a successful coach?

Coaching consistently, so you can learn through your own errors. The ability to learn from other people or through coaching courses.

The motivation to spend time on the field and build a team over months to years.

PLAYERS RESPECT!!! Players will only implement things that they believe in.

A full time hockey coach…. Your choice is playing or coaching. Not both

Who is Brendon Carolan when not at hockey?

A fairly quiet, reserved person when not on the hockey pitch which might surprise some.
Enjoy the gym, generally being healthy. Love beach life in Durban. Running my new Labrador Gabi

Other interests?

Fly-fishing is a big family pass time. Dads very involved in the rugby scene so rugby as well. Enjoy all sports 

Name:

Age: 26

Test Caps: 17

When did you make your debut for South Africa and how did this achievement feel?

2006 vs Japan at the World Cup. Singing the National Anthem makes all the training worthwhile. Nothing could prepare me for the emotion I felt as I ran on. I was overwhelmed with excitement!

You attended the African Qualifier, can you tell us a bit about it (On and off the field experiences?)

The crowd in Ghana was amazing. The noise was deafening and it really created an electric atmosphere. Our team played well and we reached our objectives. Our spare time was spent site seeing, visiting Labadi Beach and shopping at the local markets. We had a brilliant time.

Goalkeeper of the tournament at the African Qualifier? Can you tell us a bit about this award? Goals conceded, matches played etc.

We did not concede any goals in the two games that I played in and therefore I was very pleased with my performance, but having said that, I still believe that I was very fortunate to receive this award. It took me by surprise, but I am proud of the achievement.

You recently missed out on the Olympic Games… How have things been since you have been brought back into the setup and how are things looking in terms of your future as one of South Africa’s best keepers?

Missing out on the Olympics was a huge disappointment and I nearly hung up my boots, but after some serious contemplation, I decided that I would indeed forge on. I am obviously thrilled with my decision and can now honestly say that I am an integral part of the team, on and off the field. We have had a change in guard in terms of players and the fresh beginning has been great for our moral and it shows in our performance. The lads are hungry for success and we are working well as a team.

Any nicknames and why you were given them?

My first hockey nickname, “The Flying Frog” was given to me by Ryan Ravenscroft back at the Junior World Cup because of the way I kept goal. Since then it’s moved on to the “Boatfrog” which is a play on my surname. More recently, the lads have nicknamed me “The Athlete” because I spend so much time doing fitness and I’m always the last one to leave the gym. My body is a temple.

Who is Brenden Botes when he’s not playing hockey?

I work as a Broker Consultant for Liberty Life in Port Elizabeth and I am dedicated to Standard Bank. I thoroughly enjoy my job and it’s an easy sell because Liberty is simply the best in the market. I am married to Cindy and we have a little boy, Blake. My family means the world to me.

Other interests?

I enjoy riding my mountain bike and generally love watching sport. I support the Bulls and Tottenham Hotspur. I never miss a Bok, Protea or Bafana game.

Your views on the strength of South Africa’s league and Provincial Structures? Any suggestions on how to improve them?

Our league is just not competitive enough. It comes down to poor administration and general apathy from players. We need funds to start an NHL, but that seems impossible at the moment.

If you could change one aspect of your game, what would it be?

I would like to control the red mist a little better and obviously would love to be slightly taller.

Some of the highlights of your hockey career?

The day Paul Revington phoned me to say that I would be going to the 2006 World Cup! Our tour to Santiago was a highlight for me because I had a brilliant run of form. Winning in Ghana was amazing, and playing for Wits at NHL is something I’ll never forget.

Name:

Age: 35

You recently attended an FIH coaching course at the African Qualifier in Ghana. Can you tell us what this course was about and what it means in terms of your progression as a coach?

I was lucky enough to attend the course in Accra along with Gregg Hesom, the SA U/21 ladies assistant coach, and coaches from 12 African and Asian countries.

The course was intended primarily to be a High Performance course, but the mix was somewhere between High Performance and Development due to the differences in knowledge and experience of the coaches attending. This was not necessarily a drawback, however, because there are equal opportunities for learning within both the Development and more glamorous-sounding High Performance contexts.

Tayyab Ikram, FIH coaching co-ordinator, and Sergio Vigil, Argentina head coach, were the course facilitators – both FIH Master coaches – with a formidable knowledge base and contrasting presentation styles.

The course followed a simple format of presentations during the day, either by the facilitators or participants, and group work and analysis during Africa Cup matches in the afternoon and evening. Presentations and video analysis by the groups gave the facilitators the opportunity to assess participants. There was also a practical element, working on the turf observing the facilitators as they coached, and also having our own opportunity to present practical concepts to the group.

It was a challenging and stimulating environment, with little room to “hide” when the facilitators engaged you on any hockey subject. Of course there was the added bonus of being able to root for the SA guys and girls at Africa Cup at the same time.

From a personal point of view, I came away with a certificate of participation – all that can be expected after attending your first FIH coaching course – and hopefully having made a positive impression on the facilitators. I am awaiting feedback which will hopefully be communicated through SA hockey channels.

In terms of my future development as a coach, attending more courses is a must, as is progressing in terms of experience, knowledge and national appointments until nominated to present at an FIH Final Seminar. Preparation for the Final Seminar will take a minimum of eight to 10 months before undergoing final assessment at a course, which usually coincides with a major world-level tournament. It’s neither quick nor easy, which is why FIH qualifications are so highly regarded.

On another level, working with fellow coaches and being able to engage with two such successful senior facilitators was an eye-opener in terms of the level of commitment and attention to detail required for top-level coaching. Most importantly, perhaps, was the affirmation that I am on the “right track” with my personal coaching philosophy and methodology, as well as my current hockey knowledge.

To be able to spend a week in an African city in such knowledgeable company, and to be a representative of SA hockey, was a great privilege.

Who do you currently coach in South Africa… Club? Province? Any team achievements you want to mention?

I live and work in Johannesburg, where I coach Jeppe High School for Boys First XI and junior academy, the University of Johannesburg men’s First Team, and the Southerns men’s A IPT side.

The UJ side defended their Southerns Premier League title for the first time in the club’s history this season.

What roles do you have with regard to South African hockey teams?

I’ve worked for the last two years as assistant coach to the SA U/21 men’s team, which attended the Junior World Cup in Singapore/Malaysia in June of this year.

In the past I have worked as assistant coach at the Indoor World Cup in 2007, as a video analyst with the SA U/21 and men’s team, and I’ve coached the SA A and SA Universities team.

What are your thoughts on the performances of the South African Teams at the African Qualifier?

It was awesome to see both teams doing so well and qualifying with relative ease. As anybody who has been through the process will tell you qualifying through Africa is not easy, for all sorts of reasons, but both teams took it in their stride this time round.

The ladies are the dominant force in African hockey but it was good to see a mix of youth and experience making things look easy, while the men’s team are playing positive, confident hockey and clearly enjoying themselves.

What are some of your achievements as a coach?

I’ve been lucky enough to work with some very talented players in the past few years, and I am always so excited when I see one of them succeeding at a major competition.

My most satisfying moments in coaching include winning the Aitken Trophy with Jeppe for the first time (for me) in 2005; it’s something I had wanted to do since I was a schoolboy, and winning leagues with UJ.

Every time I work with an SA team, at any level, I feel a great sense of achievement at being given such an opportunity.

Who are some of the best South African players you have come across during your coaching career?

Craig Jackson, Charlie Pereira, Shaun Cooke, Pietie Coetzee, Austin Smith, Miguel da Graca. Some I played against and some I was lucky enough to coach.

Who is Gareth Ewing when not at hockey?

I really like to be with my family and friends when I’m not coaching but I’m pretty much the same person as I am on the pitch.

Other interests?

Reading, a bit of writing, golf, and I’m the world’s slowest triathlete.