The University of Johannesburg hockey star’s hard work has paid off, following his selection for this month’s Commonwealth Games in Australia, from 4 to 15 April 2018.
Gareth Heyns is a 26-year-old who has won a number of national cups. He said he’s excited to be included in the national squad for the games taking place in April.
“I really didn’t think it was something that would happen, so when I found out I was going, it was one of the happiest moments of my life. It has made all the hard work, long days and nights of training and difficult times, worth it.
“I’ve played for SA before but I always thought that if I could compete on a stage like this, it would be the ultimate reward. It’s been one of my major goals,” said Heyns.
The hockey star is conscious of the challenges which lie ahead since South Africa is ranked 15th in the world.
The team is training hard and is being pushed by their coaches. They have been playing a series of matches to prepare for the games, but South Africa did not have the same opportunities.
They are a very hardworking, focused unit which, he believes, is definitely something that works in their favour.
He added the team is also trying to build something bigger for aspiring national hockey players, in order to create a platform for other players to compete on this level.
Heyns said he started playing hockey when he was 12 years old after his brother inspired him to pursue the sport.
His family and friends are his biggest supporters, including his coach, Garreth Ewing whose been training him since he was 15 years old.
“He has been a big part of my progression as a player and a person. His input has helped me develop and understand the game in a different way.”
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