Grade 7 learner Dania Mbatha from Redhill School is celebrating a major achievement after being selected for the Southern Gauteng U13 girls’ hockey team.
The young athlete received the news while travelling overseas.
“I was really happy. I was in Disneyland, Paris, having lunch when my mom told me.”
Her hockey journey began with school sport in Grade 2, and she later progressed to district-level competition in Grade 6.
Read more: Oblates secure win against Vagabonds in Masters Hockey League
“I only played school hockey at first, and then I made it into the district team.”
She described her selection as a proud moment that reflects her personal development.
“I feel like it shows that I have grown a lot,” she said.
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Redhill hockey star Dania Mbatha talks about being selected for the Southern Gauteng team. Video: Duduzile Khumalo #Sandton #Hockey ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
Adjusting to higher levels of competition has not always been easy, particularly in terms of fitness and adapting to a new team environment.
“Being in a new team is hard at first, but it gets better,” she said.
She credits her family and friends for helping her stay focused and motivated throughout her journey.
Also read: Girls’ hockey clubs fuel growth in school programmes
“My parents, my brother and my friend Abby have supported me the most,” she said.
Dania believes that confidence and strong basic skills played an important role in her success.
“You need to know the basics and believe in yourself,” she said.
Her message to younger players is to stay committed and be willing to step outside their comfort zones.
“Join a club and make new friends. You will grow and have more support.”
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Nelson Kgarose
www.citizen.co.za
