Exciting times ahead for Zululand hockey

THE first artificial hockey turf in Zululand to meet international standards was officially launched at Grantleigh on Saturday.

The grand opening was attended by dignitaries, parents, pupils, staff and local community members.

The turf is a full-sized, sand-based astroturf and is the only one of its kind in the Zululand region.

The project started in September last year and was completed earlier this month.

The school chose to go with a sand base owing to the water shortages in the Zululand area.

The turf will be available to local clubs and schools for hiring.

‘We trust that the entire uThungulu District will reap the rewards of this magnificent new facility and that sportsmen and women from all walks of life will enjoy its benefits in the years to come,’ said Grantleigh headmaster Shaun McMurtry.

Highlights of the day’s programme included the ribbon cutting and the matches played between the KZN Country Districts and Madsen XI, Grantleigh open girls and Empangeni Hockey Club and Grantleigh open boys against Richards Bay Hockey Club.

Anyone interested in hiring the pitch, can email Garth Bishop on garth.bishop@grantleigh.co.za.