Modified Hockey Launch Kicks Off in North West Province

The South African Hockey Association (SAHA), in collaboration with North West Hockey and Promosa High School, has launched a groundbreaking Modified Hockey programme in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District. The two-day event, which began yesterday and concludes today, marks a major step in promoting grassroots hockey development in schools.

Day One: Teacher Training and Coaching Development

On Wednesday, 20 August 2025, Promosa High hosted the first sessions of the launch. Physical education teachers attended a technical skills workshop facilitated by Gary Dolley, where they explored how to integrate modified hockey into physical education through adapted games.

In the afternoon, a Level 0 Coaching Course was conducted for 25 identified teachers from Promosa, Ikageng, and Klerksdorp. The initiative also included training for two additional facilitators who will help roll out the programme across other districts. This first day laid a strong foundation for equipping educators with the skills to deliver hockey at the school level.

Day Two: School Visits and Equipment Handover

Today, Thursday, 21 August 2025, the focus shifted to learners and schools. The programme started with a site visit to Keagile Primary, where a modified hockey session was demonstrated. Importantly, 10 schools received equipment as part of SAHA’s commitment to expanding access to the sport.

Building the Future of Hockey

The Modified Hockey initiative is designed to make the sport more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds can participate. By training teachers and supplying schools with equipment, SAHA aims to create sustainable pathways for hockey development from grassroots to competitive levels.

Project Manager Gary Dolley emphasised the importance of investing in schools and teachers to grow the sport. The programme is expected to expand further into other districts in the near future, building a stronger base for South African hockey.