Hockey in Diepsloot is making great strides in a community that is more familiar with sports such as netball, soccer and tennis.
Silver Stars hockey coach, Silver Malele from Diepsloot Ext 6 has extended his love for the sport to Diepsloot schoolchildren. He said, “I chose hockey because it is a rare sport in our black communities and it’s great to see kids enjoy it.
“Hockey, like any other sport, keeps kids off the streets where they can fall victim to drugs and crime.”
Malele revealed that the South African Hockey Association recently visited Diepsloot Combined School to encourage the sport.
SA Hockey project manager, Gary Dolley was responsible for the rollout of the programme at the school. He said, “The hockey programme is growing and has been introduced to at least 20 schools throughout Gauteng.
“In Diepsloot, learners had fun playing on the existing tennis courts as there is no hockey play area yet.”
Dolley explained that the association removes obstacles to participate in physical activities by using any smooth surface in a safe and caring environment to promote physical activities within our schools and communities. “The alignment of modified hockey with the outcomes of the physical education programme within schools will help more children to attain and enjoy optimum health and promote physical activities.”
The promotion of values such as respect and care for the participant, his family, friends, school and nature is embedded in the programme’s approach, moulding the youth through sport.
To donate U8 to U18 hockey kit to Silver Stars, or to offer transport when the team has to travel to play with other teams, contact Siobhan Brown on 072 706 2123 or email silverstarshockey@gmail.com
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