Kempton Park hockey team serves tables to raise funds for equipment
Hoërskool Birchleigh players traded the field for the restaurant floor, boosting their fundraising efforts while learning valuable workplace skills.
The first team hockey boys from Hoërskool Birchleigh hosted a fundraising event at John Dory’s at Harvest Place on March 31, giving players a unique opportunity to experience working in a restaurant environment.
During the evening, the learners shadowed staff members on their night shift, gaining insight into the skills and responsibilities required in the hospitality industry.
John Dory’s manager Mellors Somkono explained that the “shadow shift” initiative is designed to assist schools in raising funds for uniforms and equipment.
“The schools we assist set a budget for the evening. The learners are then introduced to the skills required of waiters, and they receive a percentage of the night’s profits towards their uniform and equipment needs,” said Somkono.
He added that the initiative was created in response to the high number of learners who struggle to access financial support for school-related needs. The restaurant has already assisted 13 schools in the Kempton Park area.
First team hockey coach Nhlanhla Morake said the funds raised will go towards much-needed training equipment, including hockey shoes, bags, bibs and a goalkeeper kit.
Morake added that the team is aiming to finish second in the league and continues to focus on improving their performance by applying what they practise during training.
Team captain Dylan Steenberg said the team had a challenging start to the season but has improved as the campaign progressed.
“This fundraiser will really help us, especially because we need a new goalkeeper kit; our current one is in poor condition,” he said.
The team prides itself on playing with determination and sticking to its own game plan rather than reacting to opponents.
Forward Ntokozo Thokwana said being part of the team has taught him the importance of teamwork and support.
“When you’re part of a team, you learn to rely on others. If you make mistakes, your teammates are there to support you,” he said.
“The funds will help us look more presentable on the field as we work towards our goal of qualifying for provincials.”
Morake noted that the team is only permitted to host one fundraiser and encouraged individuals or businesses interested in sponsoring the team to make contact via admin@birchleigh.co.za.
