Season Overview Union first hockey team had an exceptional hockey season during the 2023 season. The girls’ demonstrated exceptional grit and resilience, refusing to back down even in the face of tough challenges posed by tough opponents. They fought for every inch of the pitch, displaying remarkable determination and a never-say-die attitude. This unwavering spirit was the driving force behind their success.
Team Strategy The success of the first team during the hockey season can be attributed to a well-executed team strategy, which emphasized the following elements:
Strong Defense: The team emphasized on a solid defensive structure, limiting the opponent’s scoring opportunities and providing a solid foundation to outlet from: Musa Zweni; Caytah-Leigh Koeberg; Anna Pringle; Sarah Jacobs; Tara Ferreira; Kenza Neill; Leigh-Ann Murray.
Counter-attacking Principles: we demonstrated impressive attacking options, combining skillful plays and quick transitions to create quality goal scoring opportunities: Brigette Oelofsen; Leah Marais; Sade May; Micole Vorster; Misha Newton; Lana Bouwer; Aaminah Steele Charlize Vorster.
Team Cohesion: The players exhibited a high level of chemistry and understanding on and off the field, which enhanced their ability to work together as a unit and support each other throughout the season.
The excellent hockey season is a testament to the players’ talent, hard work, and dedication. Their remarkable achievements, both individually and as a team, have brought pride to the School and joy to our supporters. we look ahead to the next season, it is evident that UNION FIRST HOCKEY TEAM will continue to be a force to be reckoned with, and their success will serve as an inspiration for future generations of hockey players at the school.
Union high school 1st team girl’s hockey results 2023
The first team played a total of 36 games won 19, drew 2 and lost 15 with 51 goals against us and 62 goals for us.
24-26 FEBRUARY VOORTREKKER FESTIVAL
UNION VERSUS SASOLBURG HIGH SCHOOL: LOST 5-1
UNION VERSUS ST ANNES: LOST 1-0
UNION VERSUS ST STITIANS: LOST 3-0
UNION VERSUS GOUDVELD: WON 2-1
UNION VERSUS LADY FATIMA: WON 3-2
5 MARCH SPAR FESTIVAL
UNION VERSUS CRADOCK: WON 2-0
UNION VERSUS BRADWAG: W0N 4-0
UNION 0 VERSUS 2 DGS: LOST 2-0
8 MARCH
UNION VERSUS PEARSON HIGH SCHOOL: LOST 4-1
17-19 MARCH GREGG BEILING FESTIVAL
UNION VERSUS ELDORAINE: LOST 2-1
UNION VERSUS COLLEGIETE: LOST 6-1
UNION VERSUS MERRIFIELD: WON 2-1
UNION VERSUS SASOLBURG HIGH: DREW 1-1
31-3 APRIL UNION HIGH SCHOOL FESTIVAL
UNION VERSUS LANGENHOVEN GIMNASIUM: WON 3-1
UNION VERSUS VICTORIA GIRLS: WON 2-0
UNION VERSUS NICO-MALAN: WON 9-0
UNION VERSUS JIM FOUCHE: WON 2-0
UNION VERSUS FRAMESBY: LOST 1-0
FAIRMONT EASTER FESTIVAL
UNION VERSUS EDGEMEAD: DREW 0-0
UNION VERSUS DURBANVILLE CURRO: LOST 3-2
UNION VERSUS SOMERSET COLLEGE: LOST 4-0
UNION VERSUS WORCESTER GYMNASIUM: WON 3-0
UNION VERSUS STELLENBOSCH HIGH: WON 2-0
UNION VERSUS HIGH SCHOOL DROTSDY: LOST 3-1
UNION VERSUS SETTLERS HIGH SCHOOL: WON 2-0
SECOND AND THRIRD TERM FIXTURES
22 APRIL UNION VERSUS CRADOCK: WON 5-1
6 MAY UNION VS JIM FOUCHE: WON 1-0
13 MAY UNION VS STIRLING: LOST 4-0
20 MAY UNION VS WOODRIDGE COLLEGE: WON 2-1
27 MAY UNION VS ST MICHAELS SCHOOL FOR GIRLS: WON 3-0
10 JUNE.UNION 2VERSUS 0 FRAMESBY: WON 2-0
16 JUNE UNION 2 VERSUS 0 QUEENSTOWN GIRLS HIGH: WON 2-0
Jayden Odendaal, Hlankanipa Skepe, Camran Swartz, Jared Meyer, Na’eem Mahomed, Lonwabo Hanabe, Jude Langmead, Ryan Jenneke (c ), Chuma Sobantu (vC), Wade Edwards, Elihle Robile, Brent Hesselink, Joshua Basson, Peter Michaels and Andrue (AJ) Victor.
Ryan Jenneke, 1st XV captain: “As we stand on the brink of the much-awaited interschools, I want to take a moment to share my thoughts and ignite the fire within each one of you. Rugby is more than just a game; it’s a way of life, a bond that unites us all. It teaches us resilience, teamwork, and the importance of pushing ourselves to the limits.
As the captain of Union’s 1st team rugby, I am immensely proud of each and every one of you. Our strength lies not only in our skills but also in our unity and unwavering support for one another. Remember, when we step onto that field, we do so as a brotherhood, unyielding and determined.
Rugby is a battle that demands our blood, sweat, and tears. But it also rewards us with unforgettable moments, lifelong friendships, and a sense of achievement that cannot be replicated. So, let’s embrace this opportunity, let’s give it our all, and leave no doubts in the minds of our opponents.
As the legendary rugby player, Jonah Lomu once said, “Rugby is great. The players don’t wear helmets or padding; they just beat the living daylights out of each other and then go for a beer. I love that.” Let’s embody this spirit, play with passion, and leave everything on that field.
Believe in yourselves, believe in your teammates, and believe in the power of unity. Let’s make our school proud, let’s make this interschools a memory that will be cherished forever. Together, we can conquer any challenge that comes our way. Go out there, give it your all, and let the roar of victory be heard!”
Message from the Coach As Union’s 1st team rugby coach, I am thrilled to address you all on this momentous occasion of our Interschools event. It fills my heart with immense pride to see the spirit of unity and enthusiasm that radiates through our school.
To our talented players, I want you to know that you are the embodiment of dedication and passion. Remember, every tackle, every try and every moment on that field is an opportunity to showcase your skills and teamwork. Embrace the challenge, trust in your abilities and leave nothing behind but your unwavering determination.
To our beloved supporters, your unwavering presence and resounding cheers are the fuel that ignites our team’s fire. Your belief in our players and your unwavering support truly make a difference. Let’s come together, rally behind our team, and create an atmosphere that will be remembered for years to come.
To our esteemed visitors, welcome to our vibrant school community! We extend our warmest hospitality and friendship to you. May this event be a celebration of sportsmanship, camaraderie and the love for the game. As we compete on the field, let our shared values of respect and fair play shine through.
Wishing everyone a day filled with thrilling moments, friendly competition and a deep sense of pride. Go Union!
Warm regards, Sean Koeberg
1st Hockey Team
Sadé May, Kenza Neill, Leah Marais, Mecoli Vorster, Amy Waddelow, Tara Ferreira, Charlize Vorster, Ngomusa Zweni (VC), Brigetté Oelofsen (C), Anna Pringle (VC), Anna Bouwer, Misha Newton, Sarah Jacobs, Leigh-Ann Murray, Caytah-Leigh Koeberg and Aaminah Steele.
Let’s remember that every match and every goal we score this Interschools is a testament to our hard work and dedication. We’ve trained together, we’ve grown together, and now it’s time to show everyone what we’re capable of.
Believe in yourselves, trust in your skills, and support one another on and off the field. Remember that we are stronger together, and our unity will be our greatest strength.
So, let’s give it our all, leave everything on the field, and make Union proud. I have complete faith in each and every one of you.
Go, Union, go!”
Message from the Coach As the Head of Hockey at Union, I am thrilled to welcome our visitors and fellow competitors to our school for this year’s Interschools. It is a momentous occasion that brings together the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie and a shared passion for the game.
To all our players, coaches and supporters, I encourage you to embrace this opportunity to showcase your skills, determination, and teamwork. Remember, it is not just about winning, but about the joy of playing this beautiful game and the memories we create together.
Let us welcome our visitors with open arms, for they too have travelled far to be here. May this Interschools be a testament to the unity and respect that lies at the heart of competitive sports. Let us compete fiercely, but always with grace and respect for our opponents.
To our players, you have trained tirelessly, honed your skills and overcome challenges to reach this stage. Now is your chance to shine on the field, to leave everything you have on the pitch and to make your school proud.
To our supporters, your unwavering encouragement fuels our players’ determination. Your cheers and applause inspire us to push beyond our limits and strive for greatness. Together, let’s create an electrifying atmosphere that will resonate with our opponents and make this Interschools a truly unforgettable experience.
Union High School, let us unite under the banner of hockey, embodying the values of sportsmanship, resilience, and respect. May this Interschools be marked not only by the battles on the field but also by the friendships formed and the memories that will last a lifetime.
To our visitors, we extend a warm welcome to our school. May your time here be filled with spirited competition, new friendships, and an appreciation for the beauty of the game.
Let the games begin, and may the spirit of hockey guide us all!
Yours in hockey, Calvin Beck
1st Tennis Team
LEFT TO RIGHT: Tara Ferreira, Brent Hesselink, Tayla Kingwill, Jude Langmead, Gemma Naude, Karl Venter, Leah Marais, Jordan Wilmot, Caytah-Leigh Koeberg, Josh Neill, Anna Pringle and Ndalo Qwalela.
On behalf of the Union High School, Graaff-Reinet, I am delighted to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all of you as we gather at the Union Schools’ campus this week for the much-anticipated 2023 Interschools between the Union Schools and Hoër and Laer Volkskool.
As we embark on this exciting journey, it is important to remember that this event is not solely about competition. It is about fostering camaraderie, celebrating sportsmanship and nurturing the spirit of togetherness that unites us all.
Interschools provides a platform for us to showcase our talents, challenge ourselves and build lasting friendships that will transcend the boundaries of the playing field.
𝗧𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀, I extend my best wishes and good luck for the upcoming encounters. Whether you find yourself on the AstroTurf, rugby field, tennis court, or participating in any of the various cultural competitions, remember to give your all, display exemplary sportsmanship and cherish every moment.
May the spirit of fair play guide you and may your efforts be rewarded with personal growth and unforgettable memories.
𝗧𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀, 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗳𝗳 who have tirelessly nurtured these young talents, I extend my deepest appreciation. Your guidance and commitment have undoubtedly played a vital role in shaping the individuals who stand before us today. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to our learners and for instilling in them the values of teamwork, discipline and resilience.
Lastly, I would like to extend my gratitude 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 who cheer on their children. Your unwavering support and encouragement make a significant difference in the lives of these young learners. Your presence is a testament to the strong bonds within our community and the importance we place on the holistic development of our learners.
𝗠𝗮𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝗻 𝘂𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱. Let us come together in the spirit of friendly competition, mutual respect and a shared passion for excellence. I am confident that this week will leave a lasting impression on all of us, fostering lifelong friendships and creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
