Wanderers Hockey Festival sees more than 1 000 players take to the field

Whistles blew, hockey balls were struck fiercely and cheering resounded across 19 fields at the Wanderers Hockey Festival.

It was a scene of organised chaos at Wanderers Hockey Club, as 11 hockey clubs fielded a whopping 149 teams from U5 to U13 level at the festival on 19 May.

There were more than 1 000 players, nevermind all the family members, coaches and friends who also attended to support the youngsters. Then there were the food stalls and numerous music amps placed around the grounds keeping everyone well-fed and entertained.

Yet the festival’s quantity was matched by its quality, every player giving their all for their team. As it was a festival and not a tournament, there were no official winners on the day, but bragging rights and informal glory were always on offer.

“It was a big success,” said a now slightly tired Lorcan Nurse, head of junior hockey at Wanderers.

“There were three weeks of planning going into the festival and it went well.”

He attributed much of the festival’s success to willing parents and players who showed commitment to the sport and their clubs by coming through. The standard of hockey, Nurse said, had improved every year since the annual festival started more than a decade ago.

Wanderers Hockey Club boasts 380 players from U5 to U17 level alone. But this is no problem for Nurse.

“Hockey is great for young children to develop their physical skills and socialise. Hockey is something you can play and that can benefit you until late in your life.”

Also read: Women’s cricket up and running at Wanderers Cricket Club