Kingswood College look to give their all against in-form Pearson side
Kingswood College girls coach Zimasa Dunywa says her side will look to give their all and put away every opportunity when they visit Gqeberha’s Pearson High School in what sets to be a highly entertaining match this coming weekend.
The side, under Dunywa, has had a positive start to the 2023 campaign after finishing eighth out of 32 teams in the Fairmont Easter Tournament.
They also topped that off by defeating the likes of Durbanville, Bellville, and Outeniqua before hosting their successful co-ed festival, which saw them win four out of six matches.
The experienced coach, who once dawned the green and gold colours, joined the college early this year after a five-year stint at Collegiate Girls’ High.
Speaking at length to SuperSport Schools ahead of their encounter on Saturday, Dunywa revealed how she has adapted to her role while also getting to know her side better.
“I joined Kingswood this year, and personally, it took some adjustment for me to get to know the girls,” she said.
“I take pride in understanding my team, seeing what works for them, and making combinations—seeing the field work and bonding off the field.”
“We have a very capable team—a strong team, I must say—led by Araya Boettiger (captain) and Amy Hobson (vice-captain), who are very influential at the school.”
Dunywa, coming into the team, has had to assert a new style of play and mentality among the girls. She admits, however, that her girls have fully embraced the challenge and have aligned with the goals set in motion.
“My coaching style is one of playing with the best because that’s how we’ll get better,” revealed Dunywa.
“I have a very strong group in all aspects, mentally and physically.” “The girls are always up for it, and we’re always punching above our weight.”
“I love how they always look forward to playing the best and most respected teams because, honestly, those are the games we want to play and train hard for.”
Deemed South Africa’s leading independent, co-educational school, the Makhanda-based school will face arguably its toughest fixture so far this year, in Pearson.
The Gqeberha side has been phenomenal this year, carrying on with last year’s momentum, which saw them finish the year ranked 10th in the country.
Not giving away too much, Dunywa had this to say when asked what it would take to beat the home side in their reunion celebration:
“To say we’re excited would be an understatement,” she opened.
“We see ourselves as a threatening team, and we rattle teams when we move the ball, and I want us to do that throughout our game against Pearson.”
“It’s going to take a lot of grit when talent doesn’t pitch up anymore; we’re going to need hard work.” We need to switch on for all four quarters and put up every opportunity we get; ultimately, we’ll go out there and give it our all,” she concluded.
Kick-off is at 13:00 between the two teams on the Pearson Astro.
Other matches to keep an eye on include the clash between Stirling High School and Union. Cambridge High will take on Grens while Hudson Park battle Merrifield.
Clarendon Girls are expected to have a field day against Port Rex THS, while Gqeberha’s Westville face Victoria Park and Woodridge take on York High.
In King Williams Town, Kingsridge High School for Girls welcome Queenstown Girls’ High School.
The teams:
Kingswood College: Sthando Mandlendoda, Isabella Oertel, Olivia Connellan, Joanna Du Toit, Araya Boettiger (c), Lilly Winstanley, Keagan Lottering, Jasmine Witthuhn, Amy Hobson (vc), Devon Heyns, Ophola Bulani, Matipa Karimazondo, Amy Wilson, Emily Van Niekerk, Ella Stone.
Pearson: Jayde O’Halloran, Nuriyah Bell, Jorja Andrews (vc), Jodi Wilson, Cara Nel (c), Kaylin Roberts, Isabelle Hofmeyr, Devon Moore, Annemi De Villiers, Nina Ferreira, Zanike Coetzer, Jody van Aardt, Zoey Mostert, Nyssa Slabbert.
