The Madibaz men’s hockey team has attained an exceptional victory by securing the B section title at the University Sports South Africa tournament in Johannesburg. Their impressive performance has merited them a well-deserved promotion to the premier division. Representing Mandela University, the team exhibited remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament, remaining undefeated in all five of their games. The week culminated in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Free State University, solidifying their position at the top of the standings with 15 points, a commendable six points ahead of second-placed Kovsies.
Coach Cheslyn Gie has commended the squad for their remarkable achievement, emphasizing the significance of their return to the A section. Gie, who also serves as the national men’s coach for the upcoming Paris Olympics, expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the university and the Eastern Cape province as a whole. He noted that their promotion will enhance the team’s recruitment efforts and provide a platform to showcase the talent of players from the region.
Looking ahead, Gie outlined the team’s strategic plans for the future, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the squad and retaining talented players within the province. He acknowledged the need for enhanced fitness and resilience, recognizing the challenges that await in the top division. By closely observing A division matches, the team aims to gain valuable insights that will guide their preparations for the upcoming season.
Throughout the tournament, the Madibaz team displayed remarkable growth and unwavering determination, as evidenced by their victories over formidable opponents. Gie pointed out notable performances against Tshwane University of Technology and University of Western Cape, highlighting the team’s character and resilience in these matches. He commended the players for their consistent efforts and emphasized the boost in confidence resulting from their impressive display of skill and teamwork.
The coach also praised the influential role played by senior members of the team, particularly goalkeeper Kamva Dyakala, whose outstanding saves were instrumental in pivotal matches. Additionally, players such as Zaakir Ensal, Sachin Padayachee, Gerhard Rockman, and Basheer Ensal were lauded for their exceptional leadership and contributions to the team’s success.
Looking ahead, the Madibaz team will shift their focus to the Eastern Province premier league, aiming to leverage their stellar performance at USSA to propel them towards a successful second half of the season. With an unbeaten record thus far, the team is poised to build on their recent triumph and maintain their winning momentum as they strive for continued excellence on the field.
In conclusion, the Madibaz men’s hockey team’s remarkable journey at the USSA tournament underscores their unwavering commitment to success and their determination to compete at the highest level. Their promotion to the premier division reflects their collective effort, skill, and resilience, setting the stage for an exciting and promising future as they continue to make their mark in South African hockey.