Schools hockey brings back cheer

Sports Reporter

AS Zimbabwe prepare to take part in the Africa Junior Hockey Championships in Egypt, many who follow the sport now believe there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Schools hockey will be front and centre when the Zimbabwe Under-21 men and women’s team clash against four other nations at the championships, which begin today and run until March 16 in Cairo, Egypt.

Zimbabwe, however, play their first matches tomorrow against the host’s men and women’s teams.

The schools league has taken a leading role in reviving local hockey, especially ever since Government relaxed Covid-19 health protocols.

A schools league is presently underway at St John’s College in Harare.

The fixtures started on January 14 and run up to April 1.

Roughly, 26 clubs and schools are taking part.

Devlon Turner from the Fuchs Ewes Club told The Sunday Mail Sport that the league was a springboard for development.

“The games are really going on well.

“This league has given us a chance to sharpen our skills, tactics and technique,” she said.

“It has also helped us with our fitness as we play competitive games on a weekly basis.

“It’s really enjoyable; we need more of these games.”

When the tournament ends in April, attention shifts to the indoor hockey season, which is pencilled in for May to August.

It will subsequently be followed by a seven-aside hockey season.

Harare Hockey Board chairperson Chris Fourie believes increased activity will benefit the sport in the long run.

“Those who excel will get selected for Harare province, after which we hope to have Harare A and Harare B that will take part in the inter-provincial tournament known as IPT.

“We have a lot of hockey lined up, and this is a good thing for the sport,” he said.