Talented trio realise KZN goals
Reece, Tatum and Jessica Lardant who all share a passion for hockey said they hoped to represent their country one day.
IT’S rare for siblings to share the same interests when it comes to sports, but that is the case with three Durban North siblings, who have all made their respective age teams for hockey for KwaZulu-Natal. The talented trio say an important ingredient for their sporting success is being humble and keeping each other motivated. Reece, Tatum and Jessica Lardant who all share a passion for hockey said they hoped to represent their country one day.
Reece, a Virginia Preparatory School learner, was selected for the U12A hockey team. He was recently part of the KZN team won gold at the inter-provincials.
“Our coach really kept us motivated and told us we could win the competition. My sisters and family were behind me all the way and motivated me to play my best and that’s what I did. What made it special for me was it was my first KZN cap, which was an honour,” he said.
His sister, Tatum, a Grade 11 learner at Danville Park Girls’ High School was selected for the U18 KZNB side. The side won silver at the recent inter-provincials, a feat Tatum is proud of.
“It was the best a KZNB side had done so we were really chuffed. We all played for each other and the team spirit was great which contributed to our success.”
Tatum also represents Riverside Hockey at club level and said she has always looked up to her older sister, Jessica.
“I think her drive and determination are just some of the characteristics I wish I could emulate. She works hard and she’s a great player. She has been one of the reasons why I’m playing and she’s behind me which is a huge motivation,” she said.
Jessica was recently selected for the KZN Raiders team and has also been selected for the U21 KZN team for a competition in September.
“We’ve always been a close-knit family and hockey has been something of a passion for us, we all really enjoy it. Although in Reece’s case, he was dragged to watch his sisters play so he may be have been forced into it,” she quipped. “I think with every sport you need a strong support base, and my mom, dad and my siblings are there for each other which is awesome. You’ll often find me shouting at the side of the field when Reece and Tatum play and vice versa,” she said.
