Kingsmead learner’s remarkable journey to hockey stardom

Charlie Dalling, a talented Kingsmead learner, proudly represented Southern Gauteng at the recent U16 Hockey Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPT). Playing for the U16A team, Charlie demonstrated remarkable skill, determination, and passion on the field, affirming her place among the top young hockey players in the region.

Charlie’s journey with hockey began in Grade 0 but took a serious turn in grade 6 during the COVID-19 lockdown. With school sports suspended and feeling restless, she joined a hockey club, where she discovered her enthusiasm for the game and her talent as a goalkeeper. “I realised I enjoyed my position as a keeper, and the sport as a whole,” she reflected.

Her choice to pursue hockey was influenced by her older cousins, who played for St Andrews in Grahamstown. Witnessing their matches, and the remarkable performance of their first team keeper, who injured himself making a spectacular save, inspired Charlie to follow in their footsteps. “I decided then that I wanted to be a keeper like him,” she said.

In addition to her cousins, Charlie is inspired by two prominent figures in hockey. Maddie Hinch, England’s field hockey goalkeeper, and a three-time world’s best women’s goalkeeper, serves as a role model. Additionally, Mmatshepo Modipane, her first private goalkeeping coach, and a former South African international player, has significantly impacted her development. “She pushed me to be better, constantly supported me, and always had answers to any game questions,” Charlie praised.

For Charlie, the hockey community is one of the sport’s greatest rewards. “The close-knit community of players who share a passion for the game is something I cherish,” she shared. However, maintaining motivation during challenging times has been a personal struggle. She finds that motivating her team often helps her stay focused and resilient. “No one improves by dwelling on mistakes. You need to learn and move on,” she noted.

One of her proudest moments was making the U16A Southern Gauteng team at just fifteen. Preparing for the IPT involved rigorous training, practice matches, and team bonding activities like laser tag, which strengthened their camaraderie. Her standout memory from the IPT was a crucial match against the Northern Gauteng A team, where the support from the U16B team, and the boys’ U16A team, created an electrifying atmosphere.

Challenges during the tournament, particularly self-doubt and pressure, have been significant for Charlie. However, her former coach, Modipane, played a crucial role in boosting her confidence and reminding her of her abilities. Charlie’s long-term goal is to play for the South African national team, and to balance her academic aspirations with her hockey ambitions.

As she looks forward to moving to U18 hockey next year, she aims to make the A/B side again and pursue umpiring and coaching opportunities. Her journey exemplifies dedication and a deep love for hockey, making her a promising talent in the sport.

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