Unika hockey U14s triumph over Parkview

NORTHCLIFF – 'Win or lose, this experience is what really counts' – Unika.

September 22, 2017

Roxy de Villiers 1 minute read

Makayla van Coppenhagen of Unika Laerskool makes a solo run.

District 10 U14 Suikerbos and Norscott Hockey Leauge winners went toe to toe for a spot in the Best of the Best Tournament.

The match took place on 15 September at Northcliff High School’s astroturf. Unika Laerskool (Suikerbos winners) took on Parkview Senior School (Norscott winners) and came out on top with a 2–1 win.

“This is the first time we’ve come this far,” said Unika coach Zandi Geldenhuis. “We won our league, won this match and are through to Best of the Best. Win or lose, this experience is what really counts.”

Jolandi de Beer of Unika Laerskool waits for Anje van Jaarsveld to pass her the ball during a dummy penalty corner.

Unika dominated ball possession and led Parkview 1–0 at halftime. Their key player, Makayla van Copenhagen, a Gauteng Gryphons indoor and Beaulieu field hockey player, held her team’s game together by pushing forward and putting pressure on the opponents defence.

In the second half, Parkview scored from a carefully thought out penalty corner to draw level. However, it was short-lived when Unika finally managed to get the ball into the goal after being awarded four penalty corners in a row to give them the 2–1 victory.

Amelia Smith of Parkview Senior School dribbles the ball out her circle and away from Unika’s Anja Pampel.

Parkview coach, Sonya Robbertse, said her team did well considering they only had four U14s available to play the match.

Unika went on to play in the Best of the Best Tournament and ended in 6th position.

“It was tough on Sunday but we enjoyed the experience,” Geldenhuis said.

She added that the team’s secret to great teamwork and composure on the ball was trust. Geldernhuis said she has been coaching the team since the U11 age group and her plan was to keep coaching them throughout their schooling career.