Eunice not resting on their laurels
Eunice High School’s first team returned to Bloemfontein with their heads held high and was back training on the Astro on Monday afternoon following a successful Balling Hockey Festival campaign in Bethlehem over the weekend.
“The hockey season kicked off with a confident start, showcasing strong performances and a positive team spirit,” Coach Nika Coertzen said ahead of the session.
Eunice won four of their five matches in Bethlehem. They defeated The Wykeham Collegiate 3-0 in their first match, followed it up with a 1-0 win over St John’s DSG, but then suffered a 0-2 loss at the hands of St Mary’s DSG (Kloof). Coertzen’s charges bounced back with victories over Our Lady of Fatima and Noordheuwel, whom they overcame 2-1 and 4-0 respectively.
Last year. Coertzen led one of the younger sides at first team level. They endured ups and downs, but their performances at the Balling Festival showed how far they have come as a unit.
The results of the building phase they underwent in 2024 are evident in their good start to 2025, Cortzen reckoned.
However, despite her team’s good run, Coertzen doesn’t want her side to get too far ahead of themselves. “The team must stay focused and committed as the real test begins,” she explained.
“The journey ahead will require continued dedication and hard work to maintain momentum and overcome the challenges that lie ahead.”
Bianca Rees-Gibbs was selected to be Eunice’s captain this year. Unfortunately for the ladies from Bloem, Rees-Gibbs was unable to take part in matches in Bethlehem due to an injury. However, she did play a part in the team’s games, captaining from the bench, while Cale Potgieter, the vice-captain, took charge on the Astro. Coertzen was impressed by how the pair communicated and supported each other.
Their ability to lean on each other was the difference in some matches, Coertzen said. Rees-Gibbs’ contribution was invaluable given the high standard of hockey that was played at the showpiece, she felt.
“Being part of this team is truly a privilege, and I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead.” Coertzen enthused.
“The opportunity to collaborate with such talented and driven individuals is something I deeply value. With the support of our coaches, management, and everyone behind the scenes, we are motivated to give our best and continue moving forward.”
