Potchefstroom will be a hockey fortress in December when the North-West University (NWU) will play host to the 2021 FIH Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup.
The event, which will be presented in collaboration with the South African Hockey Association and the sport’s global governing body, the Fédération Internationale de Hockey (FIH), will take place from 5 to 16 December at the NWU Astroturf fields in Potchefstroom.
This was officially announced on the NWU Sports Facebook page on Wednesday, 11 August during a live video panel discussion. The official logo for the FIH Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup was also revealed.
Sixteen countries will participate in this huge tournament that will take place for the first time in Africa. The event will see the cream of the crop of the young women’s hockey stars in action right here in Potchefstroom.
Not all the teams have yet qualified, but European teams such as Belgium, England, Russia, Spain, Netherlands and Germany and hosts South Africa are already assured of a place in the competition. 
Three teams from the Asia/Pacific region and three from the Pan-American region still need to qualify.
All relevant Covid-19 protocols will be strictly adhered to during the World Cup and the event will be staged in a bio-bubble. Henceforth, no spectators will be able to attend the event.
“The North-West University is looking forward to welcoming the participating teams to the lovely city of Potchefstroom. We are excited to host the FIH Hockey Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup, which is not only a first for South Africa, but also for the African continent,” says Sheldon Rostron, chairperson of the local organising committee and Manager of Sport at the NWU’s campus in Potchefstroom.
“Our goal is to deliver an event that not only showcases our ability to host world-class events but also exhibits our hospitality, culture and beautiful country. “It is an honour and privilege to play for your country and at this age (under 21) there is nothing better than being exposed to an environment that encourages you to become a professional athlete. We would like to make this a memorable event, one that ignites the flame that burns throughout their careers,” added Rostron.
Christa Ramasimong, NWU and SA u.21 hockey player is also excited to be able to play in a World Cup in her home country. “
It is very exciting knowing that the tournament will take place at home. Hopefully we will get the support from our friends, family and students,” she added in the official launch video.
