Smiles were all over the show but the competition was fierce at the Scottafix Tournament, an annual underwater hockey event.
Wahoo Aquatic Centre, Sunninghill, played host to Orca Underwater Hockey Club’s fifth tournament in memory of its founder, Craig Scott.
Eight underwater hockey clubs came to compete from as far as Nelspruit, Brits and Pretoria.
Midrand’s own, Christ Church Underwater Hockey Club fielded a team in the tournament.
All through the morning teams gave their all at the bottom of the pool, while spirits were high above the water.
“The tournament went well; it was held as a warm-up before club championships which happen in Port Elizabeth on 5 December,” said Orca’s former chairperson, Marius de Wet, a close friend of the late Scott.
“Craig’s motto was ‘happy hockey’ and he was all about fun and enjoying the game. [That is why] all proceeds go to the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation, which was his favourite charity. We give them about R5 000 each year.”
While the Normal Air Underwater Hockey Club was tournament champions, beating Tuks in the final, De Wet paid homage to Christ Church for the club’s role in developing the sport among the youth.
“Christ Church is a huge development arm of underwater hockey in Gauteng. They do so much for the sport in promoting it with youngsters, teaching them drills and rules.”
De Wet added that Orca was currently looking for a new place to call home after Ellis Park Swimming Pool became run-down and safety became an issue in the area, leading to the club leaving the premises two months ago.
INSET: A referee is in good spirits before overseeing a game during the tournament.
Photos: Nicholas Zaal
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