Sixteen junior international women’s hockey teams will be seen in action in South Africa soon. This after the North West University received the nod from the International Federation of Hockey and the South African Hockey Association to oversee the 2021 Junior Hockey Women’s World Cup in December.
This is the first time that the tournament will be hosted in Africa.
The South African under-21 team will represent the country along with another 15 teams from all over the world. The world cup will be played in four pools of four teams.
NWU sports Director Sheldon Rostron says this is a historic first for the continent.
“There’s quite a bit of history behind it. This is the first time that this event will be held on African soil. The first time that it will be held in South Africa. The event is a world cup that has never been held in the African continent. I think it’s a great opportunity for us to showcase our hospitality and hosting capabilities.”
Rostron says the university is ready for the task.
“The event takes place on the 5th of December and finishes on the 16th of December. A lot of preparation has been ongoing. We’re happy with the facilities at the moment. COVID-19 has obviously had a large impact around the world globally. Not just in sports but in different sectors. it’s going to take a lot of effort to make sure that we run an event that is safe so it will be run in a bier bubble with strict protocols put in place.”
Golden opportunity
The under 21 women players are beyond excited for this golden opportunity. Jacolene McLaren and Legae Mentoor had this to say.
“I’m very excited about this world cup that’s coming to NWU. We’re very excited to play here and it’s a privilege,” says McLaren.
“I think it’s a great experience and a great opportunity for the university. I’ve been playing hockey for 14 years so this is very big for me. I can’t wait,” adds Mentoor.
The tournament will be a great opportunity to showcase strides made by women in this sporting code, as explained by Christa Ramasimong and Pretty Morena.
“I’m very excited for the junior world coming to South Africa for the first time as it is the first time such a tournament is hosted on African soil. Mentally I feel like we’re all prepared,” says Ramasimong.
“I feel like it’s a good opportunity to showcase women hockey and also women in sports and to motivate younger players as well,” says Morena.
This world cup will take place in Potchefstroom at the North West University’s AstroTurf.
