Reddam House Helderfontein hockey team makes outstanding debut at the Aitken and Boden Tournament
Just three years ago, the team played their first official 11-a-side match with no reserve players and a single win to show for their season.
Reddam House Helderfontein’s U15 boys’ hockey team marked a major milestone with an inspiring debut at the Aitken and Boden Tournament — one of Gauteng’s most competitive school hockey events.
Just three years ago, the team played their first, official 11-a-side match, with no reserve players and a single win to show for their season.
Fast-forward to 2025, and the same squad stepped onto the turf with a full team of 16 players, two provincial selections under their belt, and a season of hard work behind them.
What followed was a remarkable run through the Boden Cup. On May 16, the team delivered a flawless pool stage performance, defeating Roosevelt High School 4–0, Silverstars 7–0, Benoni High School 5–0, and Crawford International Lonehill 8–0.
The next day’s semi-final saw them take on Bryanston High School in a tense, evenly matched fixture. With both sides fighting for a place in the final, Reddam House clinched the win with a late goal, ending the match 2–1.
Later that evening, they faced Hoërskool Randburg in the C-pool final. It was another high-intensity game, and although the boys gave it their all, they were narrowly defeated 3–1 by a strong Randburg side.
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Behind the team’s transformation is coach Melissa Bennetts, who began mentoring the players in Grade 7 and has been instrumental in developing both their technical skills and team culture. The squad has grown to over 20 players, and the tournament results reflect, not only talent, but also dedication and belief.
“This tournament marked an extraordinary milestone for our hockey boys,” said Bennetts. “Their commitment, growth, and teamwork were on full display — not just in their results, but in the way they conducted themselves throughout the event. We are incredibly proud of their journey and what they represent for the future of sport at our school.”
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The school’s sporting achievements reflect its broader commitment to holistic education, encouraging learners to excel in academics, culture, and sport. With two players already representing Southern Gauteng, the future of hockey at Reddam House Helderfontein looks bright.
Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Africa and the Middle East, said: “The transformation of the boys’ hockey team is a powerful example of the value Reddam House Helderfontein places on holistic education. The school remains committed to nurturing excellence, not only in academics, but also across sports and the arts.”
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