Picture: DESMOND COETZEE
There was much excitement to be had at Breidbach Primary on Friday morning after it was identified as one of five local schools to benefit from a much-needed donation of hockey equipment.
Local development coach Hubert Oliphant, accompanied by his daughter and assistant coach Tremeine, handed over 10 hockey sticks with 10 balls to Breidbach Primary principal Gareth Fourie, deputy Elanore Harmse and teachers Wendy Jagers and Robertha Smith.
The school’s hockey captains Beyondre Jagers and Taylor Kippen were also present.
The other schools identified for the project, according to Oliphant, are Hoërskool De Vos Malan, Tshatshu Primary, Schornville Primary and Berlin Primary.
Oliphant told the Go! & Express the contribution was made after thorough planning and with the vision he has to develop the sport locally.
“I am passionate about hockey and my vision was always to develop the sport at a grassroots level, where I really find joy in working with kids at schools,” Oliphant said.
“After sharing my vision with former teammate Gary Dolley, who is a project manager at the SA Hockey Association [SAHA], everything perfectly fell into place and this was how it all started.”
Dolley said the equipment donated and distributed by Oliphant formed part of their modified hockey programme.
“We are in the process of establishing a modified hub in King William’s Town which will be coordinated by Oliphant,” Dolley said.
“We have a formal structure nationally and identified this region to be included in our programme.
“I will be visiting the region in due course to conduct a workshop for all teachers and volunteers.”
An elated Harmse said: “This equipment will be of great assistance to our talented players and on behalf of the school, we sincerely appreciate the gesture made by Hubert and all those involved.”
