Cool, calm and collected – that’s how one would see Thato Taje (17), one of Ferdinand Postma High School’s top hockey players.
“I’m pushing myself to a higher level in hockey and always trying to get more exposure”, says Thato, a grade 11 learner at Ferdies, about his future.
Thato plays link for the first hockey team at Ferdies. His journey in sports started when he was in primary school. At first he played cricket but discovered that it did not meet his personal fulfilment. Then he joined the hockey team and as he continued with the sport, he found himself becoming very fond and passionate about it.
Since 2014, Thato has trialed and qualified to be part of the North-West Provincial Hockey Team every year, and is currently in the u.18 Provincial team as well as part of the North-West Gryphons Men’s Hockey Club.
Thato says that being part of the various teams, particularly part of the hockey club, has given him a lot of exposure and he has learned a lot.
When playing, Thato mentions that he tries to remain composed. “When I get the ball, I don’t rush to play. I prefer to look for options first and see what’s going on around the field, and make a decision from that.”
Thato mentions that when furthering his studies, he plans to apply at institutions that also have a good hockey programme. This young hockey player is always looking for more exposure and knowledge regarding hockey. One of his aims is to keep on improving in the sport and to always push himself to greater heights.
