End of an era as Mvimbi set to part ways with St Benedict’s College
Former South African men’s hockey player and St Benedict’s College first team coach, Owen Mvimbi, will bid farewell to the school at the end of the year.
Mvimbi is set to join Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge as their Director of Hockey from January 2026.
The SportsGwaanz, as he’s affectionately known, leaves Bennies after three years at the helm, during which he led the school to some of its most memorable days on the AstroTurf.
“The move is not something I was actively looking for,” he told SuperSport Schools Plus.
“The opportunity occurred, and I was quite hesitant because I was happy at St Benedict’s. I looked into it and spoke with Trinity, and we looked at what could transpire between me and the school, and then I took it.
“It’s an opportunity for me to grow and develop personally and holistically.”
Mvimbi enjoyed some special years at the Bedfordview school, during which he formed long-lasting friendships with the staff and players he coached.
Reflecting on some of his best memories, he said: “I’ve had some great times at St Benedict’s. On the field, some of the memories include playing against Jeppe High School for Boys two years ago [Jaydon Brooker‘s age group], and we drew 1-1 with them after they had beaten us 3-1.
“We also faced St Stithians College. They won the Aitken Cup that year and beat us 6-1 in the first match, but we played them in June and beat them 2-0, and that was an epic victory for us. Those memories will stay with me forever.
“This year, we were invited to the Nomads Hockey Festival for the first time, and we picked up a big win against Selborne College. Getting that victory against them was amazing. We also drew 3-3 with Bishops this year, another top school.”
The coach went on to pay tribute to the staff and people he worked alongside: “I work with an amazing team and amazing colleagues,” he said.
“It’s been amazing from the tennis games we have played, the tournaments, basketball shooting competitions, soccer games, and touch rugby with the boys and coaches.
“We’ve had hectic gym sessions because our staff are into their health, heated debates in the staffroom, everything has just been epic.
“We loved one another and accepted each other for who we are. It’s the best work environment I’ve ever worked in, and I will treasure that for the rest of my life.”
Mvimbi revealed that he has a vision and a plan for Trinity’s hockey programme. He admitted, however, that he won’t rush into implementing a new system but will firstly familiarise himself with the systems in place before making any drastic changes.
“I’m going to learn more and get to know what the culture there is and how the school operates,” he explained.
“I won’t implement too many new things. I want to understand what’s going on, and I have to do that as quickly as possible, and then I will have a better idea of what I can add.
“There are hockey things and tactics, but it’s important to understand the culture, the values, and the mindset of the different parties within the school and see what I need to tweak.”
The mentor also thanked the parents at St Benedict’s for their support and help throughout the years, alongside his players, whom he described as “hard working”.
