Durban Girls’ College focused on growth
Durban Girls’ College (DGC) returned mixed results from their preseason outings at the Balling Festival, the Spar KZN Hockey Challenge, and the Bell Meek Festival, which they hosted over the past weekend.
However, DGC’s coach, Chardinay Penniston is not pressing the panic button. The gaffer, like everyone else, would have loved for her team to have been dominant, carrying on from the success they enjoyed last year, but it’s a different year, with different players.
“Yes, it’s fair to say that we want to build on last year’s success, but we also recognise that this is a new team with a different identity and different capabilities,” she said.
“The pressure to continue to perform as a ]St Mary’s] Waverley-winning team can get overwhelming at stages, but if we keep our heads down and work hard, I don’t doubt we will stay competitive.”
Instead of comparing themselves to last year’s loaded and very experienced team, Penniston is helping the current crop to establish their style of play and find ways to be successful with the strengths they possess. While some followers of DGC might look at them with one eye on the team they are succeeding, the coach is encouraging her side to focus on what’s ahead.
The 2025 side is captained by the reliable Caprice Bengston, who embodies the qualities Penniston wants her team to channel. She is resilient, hard-working, and focused on her side’s success.
“We may not have the same depth, but if we play for each other, stay disciplined, and give everything we have, we can still be a team that’s tough to beat. Success isn’t always going to be determined by our ability but by the heart, effort, and willingness we give to improve every single day,” Penniston explained.
DGC’s primary goal this year is to stay competitive and continue to create a strong and supportive culture, whilst also trying to reach the full potential that the group has, she added.
“While we may not have the same level of ability as last season, we’re focused on developing the players we do have and growing together as a team and ensuring that we’re still pushing ourselves to compete at the highest level possible,” she said.
One can be sure that DGC is that they will find a way to perform to the best of their abilities. They have always done so, and this year will be no different.
