Parktown’s Le Forestier brothers balance sporting and academic success
Parktown Boys’ High made a welcome return to the upper tier of Southern Gauteng schools’ hockey in 2024, with Tristan Le Forestier assisting coach Kyle Reddy during a hugely encouraging season, which included a runner-up finish in the prestigious Aitken Cup.
He’s one of three brothers who have passed through Parktown in recent years and who are now making their marks in the game.
Tristan plays club hockey for Old Edwardians, whom he helped qualify for the 2025 Belgotex Elite Club Championships.
He began playing the game in grade 8 at Parktown in 2013. That first year, he earned selection for the Southern Gauteng u18D team.
However, he made rapid progress and ended up turning out for the school’s 1st XI on 107 occasions. He also represented the Southern Gauteng u18A side.
This year, he’ll also run out for Witwatersrand at the Senior Inter-Provincial Tournament, which takes place at St Stithians from 9 September.
It has been a balancing act for Tristan, who is also serious about his academics. He is a software engineer, with Honours from the University of the Witwatersrand. He explained that he was fascinated by technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) from a young age.
“I enjoy problem-solving and finding solutions, and computer science provides a platform to apply these skills meaningfully,” he said. “I completed my Honours degree in Computer Science at the University of the Witwatersrand, where I have had the opportunity to develop in various aspects of the field, including machine learning, data analysis, and software development.
“The dynamic nature of technology and its potential to drive innovation and solve real-world problems continuously inspire me.
In a world of rapidly evolving technology, he is clear about his goals: “I aspire to contribute to advancements in AI and technology, making a positive impact on society through my work.”
Performing well on the sports field and in the classroom at the same time is not a walk in the park. “Balancing studies and sport is tough, but my passion for both keeps me going,” he told SuperSport Schools Plus. “Good time management is key. It helps me to do well in both without having to sacrifice one for the other. I plan my schedule carefully to fit in training, matches, and study time.
“When I’m on tour, I always bring my work with me and use any free moments to catch up on my studies. This disciplined approach has allowed me to stay on top [of things]. Staying organised, and setting clear priorities, helps me manage everything and keep progressing in both areas.”
Meanwhile, his brothers, Michael and Cameron, helped the University of Pretoria‘s hockey side lift the title at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament in July after a 6-4 win over Stellenbosch in the final.
Michael, another strong academic, said Tuks had to build as a team to achieve the victory. “Winning USSA is never an easy thing, and it takes so much out of you for so long to build towards it,” he explained. “Unlike most teams, our entire season is focused around the week at USSA, so our prep for it starts in January and builds to the tournament.
“From the very first week of pre-season, the goal was to not only physically prepare us for the season but also to mentally prepare ourselves for the tough moments in games and tough playing conditions. To then win it after all the work is such a rewarding feeling.
“Winning back-to-back USSAs with Tuks was something that I found incredible, but this year”s USSA meant a little bit more to me as it was my last.
“After the USSA win last year, I decided to stay on at Tuks for another year to win another USSA title, and to have it pay off was such an incredible feeling.”
Cameron concurred: “Winning USSA was amazing. It’s something that as a student you look forward to the whole year. To be able to win it two years in a row is so rewarding and it reminds me that all the early mornings and late nights put into training pay off.”
Apart from the lessons learned at Parktown, Michael said values instilled in the brothers by their mother, Leandra, have served them well.
“My mother raised us to always make sure that we’d be able to take care of ourselves, and to do that in today’s world we needed to get degrees in valuable fields.
Both my mom and dad represented their respective countries in waterskiing and still excelled academically. Hence, they proved to us it was possible to be both a high-level athlete and an academic.
“Parktown Boys’ High School helped in teaching me a balance between my academic and sporting codes,” he added. “Whenever we needed to find extra time to complete assignments or study, the sports faculty made sure we had a space to prepare and work to stay ahead of our work. They also made sure we were looked after by our teachers who provided us with any assistance or extra support we needed.”
Both Michael and Cameron will represent the Northern Blues at the forthcoming men’s IPT. Witwatersrand is in the opposite pool, in case you were wondering.
There’s no secret to succeeding on the turf and in the classroom, Cameron said: “Balancing studies with sport honestly just requires dedication – knowing when to work, train, or have fun with friends.
“It’s also very important to make sure you have a good support system for your friends and family so that you don’t feel alone. I find it helpful to write down upcoming tests and schedules so that I can prepare for them ahead of time.”
Tristan said sports and academics can serve as springboards for one another: “Sports can open many academic doors and provide resources to pursue your passions,” he explained.
“Developing small, consistent habits can lead to success. Work hard on the field and in the classroom, as sports can teach valuable soft skills beneficial in professional life. Stay organised and plan your time effectively, balancing both commitments.
“Seek support from coaches, teachers, and teammates to help manage your workload and stay motivated.
“Embrace challenges and learn from setbacks, as they will help you grow stronger in both areas.
“Above all, remember to enjoy the journey and have fun!”
Cam, who majors in Genetics and Biochemistry, had the last word: “Taking studies further as a young sportsman or sportswoman is very important. Not only does it allow you to educate yourself further and grow your knowledge, but it also allows you to be in an environment that has your best interests at heart.
“University doesn’t only allow for further academic success but also sporting success with the amazing sporting facilities and programmes that are put in place.”
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