UJ squad enjoy a perfect mix for Varsity Hockey
JOHANNESBURG – UJ Johannesburg women’s team prepares to participate in the Varsity Hockey tournament.
The University of Johannesburg women’s team are preparing for the Varsity Hockey tournament which kicks off in Cape Town next Friday.
The first weekend of matches takes place at the UCT Astro from 3 to 6 May and UJ hockey manager Elize le Roux said they were preparing for a tough competition.
She added that a mix of senior stars and promising U21 players formed the core of the squad and they had been working together well in the build-up to the competition.
“We have a great base of players from our senior group available,” said Le Roux.
“For example, national Olympic squad player and vice-captain Kristen Paton, captain Lisa Hawker, who played in the 2015 and 2017 tournaments and is a national squad member, and Namibians Phia Gerber and Jivanka Kruger are some of the senior players.
“Combine them with several U21 players and we have a squad full of experience and youth.
“But we know we need to stay calm and follow the coach’s plans, taking each game at a time.”
Le Roux said it was difficult to separate the top contenders.
“I really feel that all the teams are in the running. The sides that perform most consistently on the first weekend will obviously be the ones to watch, but it will probably all boil down to what happens on the second weekend.
“In addition, I think the bonus points on offer could be crucial in separating the teams in a tight competition.”
The second weekend will take place in Potchefstroom from 10 to 13 May, with the play-offs being held on the Monday. The final will be played on 20 May.
UJ are operating with a new coach this year in former South African star Tsoanelo Pholo and Le Roux said preparations were going well under her leadership.
“Tsoanelo has brought a lot of her own coaching culture to the squad,” she added.
“She has seen our players perform in various tournaments so the adjustment period was not too long.
“Players have linked with her and there is a good coach-player relationship. As the season progresses I am sure this will get stronger and more consistent.”
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