Redhill School’s historic Aitken Cup hockey win
From 06:30 sessions, to victory, the Redhill first boys' hockey team had an unforgettable journey to their win in the Aitken Cup B section, earning promotion to the A section.
In a historic moment for Redhill School, the first boys’ hockey team achieved a landmark victory on the weekend of May 17, winning the Aitken Cup B section and earning promotion to the prestigious A Section for the first time.
The significance of this win is not lost on the school community, particularly for coach Justin Rosenberg, who has been instrumental in shaping the team’s journey. “Promotion to the A section is testament to the hard work, dedication over the years, and talent of our learners and coaches.”
Rosenberg added that, for him, it represents a milestone achievement of their commitment to excellence, as well as their pursuit of continuous improvement. “It showcases our school spirit, teamwork, and resilience.”
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He elaborated that, from the very start of the season, the team demonstrated exceptional commitment. “It hasn’t been an easy journey. Early morning sessions at 06:30, two hours in the gym with our strength and conditioning coaches, the team had to trust the process.”
Rosenberg credits the team’s success to key values. “Accountability, brotherhood, dedication, sportsmanship, and teamwork. Everyone bought into the same process and beliefs. Open lines of communication, team-building exercises, shared goals, and a positive team culture that everyone adds value to.”
A critical moment in the team’s preparation came in their preseason. “Our preseason games against Trinity, Randpark, and St David’s proved pivotal, with good results and performances. Our tour to Cape Town topped our preparation for Aitken, with really good performances from everyone.”
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He pointed out that among the standout players was goalkeeper Drew Harrison. “I recall saying to Drew’s mom: ‘Trust me. I know I am throwing him into the deep end, but he’s got this’. Three years later and he puts in the performance of his life to help us win the B section.”
Rosenberg’s final words to his team before the championship match were powerful: “Be phenomenal or be forgotten.”
He said, looking ahead, he’s optimistic. “I truly do believe we can upset a few schools during the tournament. The hard work starts now, the best is yet to come.”
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