Girls’ hockey is experiencing encouraging growth as clubs report an increase in participation, with many young players progressing into school teams to strengthen the sport at the grassroots level.
Across Gauteng, development-focused hockey clubs are seeing more girls joining their programmes, a trend that school coaches say is already having a positive impact on school competitions.
The growing link between community clubs and schools is helping learners develop their skills earlier, creating a stronger foundation before they reach high school level.
At Hoërskool Marais Viljoen, hockey coach Khau Chabedi said the increase in club participation is beginning to reflect in the school’s own hockey structures.
“We are definitely seeing more girls arriving at high school with basic hockey skills and game awareness,” said Chabedi. “That makes a big difference because we can focus more on improving tactics and teamwork instead of starting from scratch.”
Chabedi added that clubs typically offer younger players regular training, competitive matches and opportunities to learn the fundamentals of the game. By the time these players reach high school, many already have several years of experience.
According to Chabedi, this pipeline of players benefits both schools and the sport as a whole.
“When players are exposed to hockey earlier through clubs, they gain confidence and understanding of the game much quicker,” he explained. It also creates healthy competition within school teams because more learners want to be part of the programme.”
The growth in girls’ participation is also being driven by increased visibility of women’s sport and stronger development structures within communities.
For schools like Hoërskool Marais Viljoen, this means a wider pool of players to choose from and the potential to build more competitive teams across different age groups.
Chabedi believes that continued collaboration between clubs and schools is essential for maintaining the momentum. “Clubs play a crucial role in introducing players to the sport,” he said. “When schools and clubs work together, we create a pathway for young athletes to grow and stay involved in hockey.”
He added that the long-term benefits go beyond competition. “Hockey teaches discipline, teamwork and resilience,” Chabedi said. “Seeing more girls participate means more learners are gaining those life skills while enjoying the sport.”
As participation continues to rise, coaches and organisers remain hopeful that the steady growth will strengthen both club and school hockey in the years ahead.
With more young players taking to the field and development pathways expanding, the future of girls’ hockey appears to be on a promising trajectory.
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