Parktown Boys’ learner dribbles his way to the U17A National Hockey Team

Zeyad Davids, an athlete from Parktown Boys’ High School, has reached a remarkable achievement by earning a place on the South African U17A Hockey team. His hard-earned position is a reflection of his commitment, talent, and deep love of the sport.

Being selected for the national team is a remarkable achievement for any young athlete. For Zeyad, it is a dream come true. “Being selected for the team is a really big achievement, and I feel super honoured to be a part of the team,” he says. This significant step in his hockey career reflects the countless hours of hard work and practice he has invested.

The selection process for the U17A team is rigorous, and designed to identify the most talented players in the country. Zeyad’s performance at the Interprovincial Tournament (IPT) was a key factor in his selection. His ability to excel under pressure, and adapt to different game scenarios, caught the selectors’ attention.

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Joining the national team is not just about playing at a higher level; it’s also about growth and learning. Zeyad is looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. He is eager to learn from his teammates and improve his own game. “I’m most looking forward to growing with the team and learning how to play with players that are as good as me, and some even better,” he shares. Building connections with players from around the country is another aspect he is excited about.

Balancing hockey commitments with academic responsibilities is a challenge that Zeyad manages with discipline and a well-structured routine. He has developed a system to ensure he excels in both areas. His approach involves completing homework as soon as he gets home, or during breaks at school, and dedicating time to academics at night after practice.

Looking ahead, Zeyad has set clear goals for his hockey career. His immediate aim is to be selected for the South African team competing in Malaysia later this year. His ultimate goal is to play for the men’s national team permanently, and win a major tournament. “I’m also working towards playing overseas to experience how other countries play, and how their systems are set up for hockey,” he reveals.

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This year, Zeyad has intensified his training regimen to enhance his skills. He has incorporated one-on-one sessions with coach Justin Rosenburg to focus on technical aspects of the game. His commitment to training six days a week highlights his determination to improve continuously.

Zeyad draws inspiration from multiple role models in the hockey world. He admires players like Mustapha Cassiem, Julian Hykes, and Rosenburg, integrating elements of their skills into his own game. “I can’t choose one, because I take skills that they do and try to implement them into my game, so that I have a variety of skills,” he says, thoughtfully.

As he embarks on this exciting new chapter with the National U17A Hockey team, his story serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. His journey is a powerful reminder that with dedication, passion, and the right mindset, dreams can indeed become reality. With his talent and determination, the future looks incredibly bright for this rising star.

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