A talented young teenager from Valhalla is making waves far beyond the pool, as his dedication to an unusual and demanding sport prepares him for the international stage.

At just 17, Ryan Georgeson-Gunn’s underwater hockey journey has taken him from a local introduction by a friend to representing South Africa at the Underwater Hockey Championships in Turkey this July.

Ryan, who attends Entheos Christian School, is currently in Grade 11 and has already built an impressive sporting resumé.

According to his mother, Elizabeth, his journey began in 2019 when he was introduced to the sport by a close friend.

She recalled how he was searching for something more meaningful than traditional swimming training at the time.

“Ryan has always enjoyed swimming and had very good swimming abilities, but he found swimming back and forth in a pool boring. Underwater hockey gave him exactly what he was looking for, a meaningful sport, something to excel at,” she said.

That discovery would prove to be life-changing. Although Ryan had received standard swimming training from as young as 10 months old, underwater hockey was entirely new territory.

“When he joined an U/13 team at the age of 10, he was surrounded by players with over four years of experience. It was daunting, and he often worried it would take years to catch up,” she said.

“But to everyone’s surprise, Ryan mastered the fundamentals within a single season. Within just six months, he was recognised as the most enthusiastic and committed player of the year, an early sign of the determination that would define his journey.”

Now, years into competitive underwater hockey, he plays in the half-back and full-back positions, roles that demand stamina, tactical awareness and calm decision-making under pressure.

Elizabeth told Rekord that balance has become one of Ryan’s greatest strengths.

“He initially used underwater hockey as a way to unwind from schoolwork, but over time, it grew into a true passion. Despite that, he continues to give equal dedication to both his studies and the sport,” she said.

Ryan’s hard work has earned him numerous accolades, including being named Best Player of the Tournament at the 2024 National Championships and receiving full provincial colours for representing Gauteng.

His dedication culminated in being selected for the South African U/19 underwater hockey team in 2026.

“The proudest moment for us was when he was selected to represent South Africa at the World Championships in Turkey. Watching him step into a world where others had years of experience and still rise to the challenge was nothing short of magical.”

The World Championships will run from July 16–26 in Turkey.

His selection for the championships followed a rigorous process of trial camps and intensive training. Only the top 13 players were chosen, with Ryan earning his place through consistency, focus, and dedication.

For the young teenager, this opportunity means far more than personal achievement.

“It shows him the rewards of dedication, persistence, and never giving up, even when things get hard,” said Elizabeth.

Outside the pool, Ryan is also an accomplished violinist, having been taught by his mother, a violin teacher, from an early age. He is also a passionate cyclist. These interests reflect both creativity and endurance.

From a parent’s perspective, Elizabeth described the journey as deeply fulfilling.

“My husband, Roger, and I are committed to supporting Ryan’s dreams, whether it’s through taking him to training sessions, travelling across the country for tournaments or helping him manage his busy schedule,” she shared.

“Ryan wants to empower young people in his community. He believes sport can be a path to discipline, confidence and opportunity.”

As Ryan prepares to travel overseas for the biggest tournament of his young career, his family is seeking sponsorship to help cover the high costs associated with international competition.

For them, this moment is more than just another milestone.

“It’s the beginning of a journey filled with purpose, passion, and the potential to inspire others,” added Elizabeth.

Anyone who wishes to help can contact Ryan’s father, Roger Georgeson-Gunn, on 084 555 9020.

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

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