Kopano Ngqobe, a promising 12-year old hockey player, made history this month as the first ever girls’ player from Keagile Primary School in Ikageng to be chosen for the North West u13 hockey squad.

Kopano, who is currently in Grade 7, went to three trials where she had to be at her best against the top players in the province. She was chosen in a high-level squad of 36 players, who will represent the province.

This is a massive achievement for Keagile Primary School, who unlike, other top schools do not have a long and established hockey program. The school only started with hockey, three years ago when the Sport Is Life Movement introduced the sport to the learners.

It was at one of these clinics where Kopano realised her love and skills for hockey. She is a striker an enjoys scoring goals for her team.

“I feel that is where I can help my team to win. I am very happy and excited when I can score,” adds Kopano.

She states that participating in the trials was quite nervous in the beginning, but that she soon found it fun and exciting to test her skills against other learners from various schools.

Hockey is not the only sport she excels in as she also enjoys soccer, rugby and athletics.

“She is a real all-rounder and can play various sports. It is such as proud moment for our school as she is the second player of our school (after Myron Drift in 2023) to be in the North West squad,” says Keagile Primary School principal, Audrey Maboe.

According to the principal one of the goals is to play in local hockey leagues.

“We play in tournaments and friendlies, but not regularly. More exposure and resources will benefit our learners,” she mentioned.

The sky is the limit for young Kopano, who has a bright future ahead. Her one big dream echoes her heart for helping people.

I would like to become a pilot one day. I really enjoy helping people and I feel as I pilot, I can achieve big things.