SportStroom Episode 20: Yolindi Botes – A Rising Hockey Star with a Big Dream

Karen Scheepers
Apr 20
3 min read

In Episode 20 of SportStroom,Drikus introduces viewers to Yolindi Botes, a 15-year-old Grade 10 learner from Hoër Volkskool Potchefstroom who is blazing her trail on the hockey field. Recently selected to participate in the Elite Invitational Hockey Tour in the Netherlands, Yolindi’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose.

From Netball Dropout to Hockey Devotee

Yolindi first picked up a hockey stick in Grade 4 after realizing that netball wasn’t her game. What began as a fallback sport quickly turned into a passion. Though hockey wasn’t a big deal at her primary school, by high school, Yolindi had made the decision to pursue the sport seriously.

Over the years, the sport has become more competitive and intense. She laughs about the irony that while hockey isn’t technically a contact sport, injuries and bruises are inevitable. From ankle knocks to a ball ricocheting off her shoulder during a 16-yard play, she has taken it all in stride.

Tour Experience and National Selection

A recent highlight in Yolindi’s journey was her participation in a school tour to Menlopark, Pretoria, where she played several games against strong city schools. Though her team didn’t win all their matches, they gained valuable experience and improved teamwork. It was during this tour that Yolindi received news that would change her life, she was selected, along with four other teammates, to join the South African team for the Elite Invitational Tour to the Netherlands.

An International Dream with a Price Tag

The Netherlands tour is not just a game-changer, it’s a dream come true. But for dreams to take flight, they need support. The total cost of the tour is R55,500, and Yolindi and her family are currently fundraising to make this trip possible. She has set up a BackaBuddy campaign and is exploring GoFundMe to allow international donations.

During the tour, she will not only play matches but also attend a World Cup game and receive coaching from international players, a golden opportunity to grow her skill set.

Hockey, Teamwork, and Grit

As a midfielder, Yolindi plays a pivotal role on the field, both defending and supporting attacks. She explains the structure of hockey positions and the technicalities of playing on different surfaces, from the smooth synthetic "Astro" turf to the less predictable grass fields.

Despite tough competition, Yolindi believes her team, the under-16A squad from Hoër Volkskool, has the discipline and potential to make a name for themselves. Her reflections on adapting to surfaces, match preparation, and the mental toll of the sport reveal a maturity beyond her years.

Beyond the Game

Yolindi is not just focused on her performance but also on team morale and self-improvement. She openly discusses how she has worked on her attitude, shifting from frustration to leadership, motivating teammates, managing emotions, and building trust.

Her role model is Shona, a university-level player representing South Africa, who has inspired Yolindi to keep reaching higher.

A Call for Support

With her sights set on October’s Netherlands tour, Yolindi needs community backing to get there. Every contribution counts. Whether it’s R10 or R1000, your donation can help a passionate young athlete represent South Africa on an international stage.

If you or your organisation would like to contribute, please reach out to The Go-To Guy for details. Let’s rally behind Yolindi and make her dream a reality.

How to Help: