Young St Dominic’s Catholic School for Girls hockey player Ayanda Tsoka has set her sights firmly on donning the green and gold and representing South Africa on the global stage.

The talented 15-year-old centre link has emerged as the heartbeat of the Saints’ first team, playing a pivotal role as the crucial link between defence and attack.

“I hope to represent South Africa one day. That’s the end goal,” said Tsoka.

Calm under pressure and composed on the ball, Tsoka dictates the tempo of the game with maturity beyond her years. Her vision, precise passing and ability to disrupt opposition play through relentless pressing and well-timed interceptions make her one of the key cogs in Seth Goodwin’s side.

She played an instrumental role in the team’s recent triumph at the St Dunstan’s College Easter Sports Festival, where St Dominic’s secured the women’s hockey title for a third consecutive year.

Tsoka’s rise has been impressive. Drafted into the first team as a Grade Eight learner initially as a supporting player, she has steadily grown into a key figure alongside teammates Jemma Ferreira, Natalia Jardim and Taashni Peter.

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She describes her experience in the first team as a turning point in her development.

“What makes it nice is that you play with people with different skill levels. You get to learn from them, and there are lots of girls you can look up to. That’s what makes it fun.”

Tsoka first picked up a hockey stick at the age of 10 and quickly fell in love with the sport.

“Hockey is really fun. I enjoy it a lot. It’s a really nice sport, and I resonate so much with it,” she said.

She draws inspiration from her brother, Kamohelo, as well as national indoor hockey player Chelsey Woolf.

Reflecting on her journey so far, Tsoka has already built an impressive résumé, including earning Easterns colours and competing in several national tournaments.

“It’s been really fun. Obviously, there are a few achievements here and there. I’ve represented my province for three years. Last year, I played at the Roedean Autumn Festival in the U14 tournament. The long-term goal is earning my national colours,” she said.

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